ID.CROSS Concept previews affordable compact Volkswagen EV

In its new electrification strategy, Volkswagen will launch 4 fully electric models in the small car and compact segment from 2026. One of these will be the ID.CROSS which has been presented at IAA Mobility 2025 in Germany as a concept model and is said to be quite close to what the production SUV will look like.

Evolved MEB platform
Being in the compact entry-level segment means it will have to be affordable, especially if Volkswagen wants to take on the Chinese brands. A key to the affordability is MEB+, an evolution of the MEB modular drivetrain developed for EVs. This new drivetrain gets a new software generation from next year, bringing a noticeable functional enhancement of many systems.

“This further development of the Volkswagen-typical modular system brings functions to vehicles from higher vehicle segments, such as the further developed Travel Assist. The MEB+ is thus the technical key to being able to offer electric vehicles such as the production version of the ID. CROSS Concept and the new ID. Polo with above-average product characteristics at attractive price,” said Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development.

New EV drive system
The ID. CROSS Concept features a newly developed, state-of-the-art drive system. Two central modules are the electric drive motor, including power electronics integrated in the front axle system, and the high-voltage battery arranged flat in the sandwich floor. The electric drive motor in the concept car develops an output of 155 kW (211 PS) and powers the front wheels. The WLTP range forecast is up to 420 kms.

New ‘Pure Positive’ design language
The ID. CROSS Concept, in Urban Jungle green, reflects a new, clear and likeable design language. “We call our new design language ‘Pure Positive’. It is based on our three design cornerstones of stability, likeability and secret sauce; it will characterise every new Volkswagen in the future. We rely on a pure and powerful clarity, along with visual stability and a positive, likeable vehicle personality,” said Volkswagen Head of Design Andreas Mindt.

The concept model presented is 4161 mm long, 1839 mm wide with a 2601 mm wheelbase, which would place it between the Perodua Ativa and latest Proton X50. For the concept model, the designers developed a 21-inch alloy wheel called Balboa. In cooperation with Goodyear, special 235/40 R21 tyres were designed for the showcar, which continue the design of the rim in the tyre sidewall.

Innovative cabin packaging
The exterior may be compact but innovative packaging provides comfortable space for 5 in the cabin, with an above-average boot volume of 450 litres. An additional compartment (25 litres) under the bonnet provides additional storage. The unusual width of the vehicle and the airy design of the interior create a greater sense of space.

The designers aimed to provide an ‘interior oasis’ with a lounge-style ambience. Pre-configured light, sound and climate modes (Atmospheres) transform the Vanilla Chai (a warm shade of beige) interior into a lounge that offers maximum comfort. Plant motifs on the screens and real plants in the visually floating centre console enhance the feel-good effect.

A further highlight is the special design of the seats in the concept car, which can be folded down completely to create a reclining area in the style of a VW Bus. Everything in sight and the cockpit landscape, with its well thought ergonomics and intuitive operation, ensures focused attention while on the road.

Attention has been given to creating harmonious interaction between displays with intuitive menu structures, natural voice control and buttons for direct functions. The multi-function steering wheel with clear button control has been completely redesigned. The two central displays of the ID. CROSS Concept are arranged on a visual axis: the digital instruments and the central touch display of the infotainment system.

Delivering on promises
“From the very beginning, my goal was to shape the best version of the Volkswagen brand of all time. The near-production concept car of the future ID. CROSS demonstrates that we are now truly delivering – with a new design, many technologies only seen in higher classes previously, improved operability and quality – and, at last, again the ‘right’ name. With this new Volkswagen generation, we are now delivering on our promises,” declared Thomas Schafer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Head of the Brand Group Core and member of the Group Board of Management.

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