While the launch of the ID.7 electric sedan in North America has been put on hold due to a softening electric vehicle market, Europe is getting a jolt of excitement with the arrival of the sporty ID.7 GTX. This dual-motor version joins the already available ID.7 GTX Tourer, offering a stylish and powerful alternative for European drivers.
Visually, the ID.7 GTX boasts a subtler approach compared to the flashy concepts we've seen in the past. Gone are the dramatic spoilers and aggressive splitters. Instead, the design team opted for a more refined look. Key features include a large lower grille for improved airflow, 20-inch wheels (with 21s as an option), discreet GTX badges, a blacked-out roof and pillars, and advanced IQ.Light LED headlights.
Inside, the ID.7 GTX gets a sporty makeover with comfortable seats upholstered in a combination of fabric and eco-friendly microfleece. A red-stitched steering wheel adds a touch of flair, while features like 30-color ambient lighting elevate the driving experience. The standard 15-inch touchscreen and head-up display provide excellent infotainment and navigation capabilities.
Performance is the heart of the GTX. While it doesn't quite reach the lofty heights of the 550 hp ID.X Performance concept, the GTX packs a punch with its dual-motor setup. The addition of a front motor to the standard ID.7's rear-wheel-drive system boosts total power to 335 hp and grants all-wheel-drive traction for improved handling. This translates to a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of "less than" 6 seconds, a respectable improvement over the standard car's 6.5 seconds.
In terms of charging, the GTX offers a maximum rate of 200 kW. While this might not be the absolute fastest on the market, it surpasses the 175 kW limit of other ID.7 models. This allows owners to replenish their 86 kWh batteries from 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes, making longer journeys more convenient.
The future of the ID.7 GTX in North America remains uncertain. The launch of the base ID.7 sedan has been delayed due to market fluctuations. However, if and when it arrives, expect a single-motor variant alongside the GTX's dual-motor option, but without the GTX branding. This aligns with VW's global plan to phase out the GTX badge for its performance EVs. As evidenced by the recent US rejection of the ID.Buzz GTX name, the North American market will likely see a different designation for the hotter ID.7 variant.