Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volkswagen ID.4: Complete comparison 2026

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a modern electric crossover with a striking retro-futuristic design and advanced 800V architecture, which has been attracting buyers with ultra-fast charging and superior interior space since its introduction in 2021. The Volkswagen ID.4, also sold in some foreign markets under the alternative names ID.4 Crozz or ID.4 X, represents an established and practically-oriented family SUV that forms the main pillar of the German manufacturer's electric range. The following comparison will map out the features of both these roughly four-year-old models in detail and help you find out which of them represents a better choice on the used car market for your daily needs.

Although both models fall into the popular family electric SUV segment, their approach to exterior dimensions differs diametrically. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is deceptive – in photos it looks like a slightly oversized hatchback, but in reality, it is a substantial vehicle. With its base length of 4635 mm, it is roughly 51 mm longer than the Volkswagen ID.4 (4584 mm) and at the same time significantly wider by 38 mm (1890 mm compared to 1852 mm for the Volkswagen). In practice, this means that while the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a slightly airier interior in the shoulder area and a subjectively more stable stance, the Volkswagen ID.4 will be slightly easier to park in tight city streets or older underground garages thanks to its narrower and shorter body.

The most fundamental difference, however, is the wheelbase and the overall height of the vehicle. Volkswagen bets on traditional SUV proportions – it is taller (up to 1640 mm) and offers a typical more upright seating position with an excellent view of the road. In contrast, the Ioniq 5 sits slightly lower (1605 mm) but boasts an absolutely stunning wheelbase of 3000 mm, a value more common for luxury limousines. The ID.4 trails it by a massive 229 mm in this regard. For the occupants, this presents a clear verdict: the Hyundai offers literally king-sized legroom in the rear seats, while the Volkswagen scores with slightly more headroom thanks to its taller roof construction.

When choosing a roughly four-year-old used car, these dimensions play a key role in daily usability. If absolute priority for you is space in the rear seats – for example, for teenage children or the installation of massive child car seats – and you don't mind the wider build of the car, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 will be an unbeatable choice. But if you are looking for a car that is closer in proportions to classic internal combustion SUVs, is easier to maneuver, and provides a greater sense of driving, then the Volkswagen ID.4 will be a slightly more likeable companion.

For families and active individuals, luggage space is often one of the deciding factors when choosing a used electric car. In the case of approximately four-year-old Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4 models from their first generations, both cars offer very good practicality and enough space for everyday use. While both competitors handle regular family shopping with ease, subtle differences in design approach and interior space utilization start to show when packing for a longer vacation or moving larger items.

In terms of standard layout, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers a slightly larger base volume of 543 liters compared to 527 liters for the Hyundai Ioniq 5. This 16-liter difference in practice means space for a few extra small bags, but overall, the capacity of both cars is very balanced. After folding the rear seats, the situation turns slightly in favor of the South Korean electric car. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a maximum capacity of 1587 liters, surpassing the 1575 liters of the ID.4 by 12 liters. For weekend shopping and longer vacations, both cars are more than sufficient and benefit from the very regular shape of the rear loading area.

A specific advantage of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the presence of an additional front luggage compartment, the so-called "frunk." Rear-wheel-drive versions have a 57-liter space under the front hood, which is ideal for storing dirty charging cables, while all-wheel-drive variants offer a more modest 24 liters due to the presence of the front electric motor. The Volkswagen ID.4, on the other hand, has no front trunk, so all accessories must find their place in the classic rear space, where a compartment under the double floor is reserved for them. The choice thus depends on whether you prefer a slightly larger basic trunk in the back or appreciate a separate front compartment for specific equipment outside the main luggage area.

The ability to tow a trailer is a crucial factor for many drivers, whether it's for the practicality of transporting oversized cargo or traveling with a caravan. Looking at models roughly four years old (generations produced around 2021–2023), both all-electric crossovers, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4, offer quite different parameters. When it comes to a standard unbraked trailer, the forces are balanced – both models can handle the legislative maximum of 750 kg. This basic load capacity is fully sufficient for a weekend purchase of bulky material or transporting garden waste.

However, fundamental differences appear in the maximum weight of a braked trailer, which varies significantly depending on the battery used and the specification. For the Hyundai Ioniq 5, it is necessary to pay close attention to the chosen version: the basic version with the smaller 58kWh battery can only tow a braked trailer up to 750 kg, which significantly limits the car's capacity. In contrast, variants with larger batteries (72.6 and 77.4 kWh) can use their potential to the fullest and offer a maximum towing capacity of up to 1600 kg. The Volkswagen ID.4, on the other hand, approaches towing a bit more conservatively, but with a better standard for the weaker versions. The Pure and Pro Performance variants can handle a braked trailer weighing 1000 kg, while the more powerful Pro and dual-motor GTX variants from these years can tow 1200 kg.

In practical use, these values mean a significant difference in how you will use the car. While the basic versions of both electric vehicles will primarily serve for transporting lighter loads or reliably mounting a heavier e-bike rack, the more powerful Hyundai Ioniq 5 can easily tow a medium-sized caravan. This allows for extra space for several more suitcases and bulkier equipment and is perfectly sufficient for a longer holiday. In conclusion, although the Volkswagen ID.4 offers more balanced parameters for basic models, the overall winner for more demanding users looking for maximum towing power is undoubtedly the Hyundai Ioniq 5 in the version with the larger battery.

Both models, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volkswagen ID.4, are fully electric SUVs that differ in their concept and approach to the powertrain. While the Ioniq 5 benefits from its advanced 800V architecture, which guarantees some of the fastest charging times on the market and offers very generous performance parameters, the ID.4 stands on the solid group MEB platform, which prefers smoothness, efficiency, and a more conservative driving character. In both cases, when looking at roughly four-year-old used cars, you will encounter vehicles with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. In terms of overall performance, the Korean representative leads slightly, with relevant used variants reaching up to 239 kW, compared to 220 kW for the top-of-the-line GTX version from Volkswagen. Customers thus most often choose based on whether they prefer explosive dynamics and superior towing capacity (Hyundai) or are looking for a comfortably tuned family car for long-distance travel (Volkswagen).

The base of the range for the Hyundai Ioniq 5 from the first years of production (2021–2022) consisted of a 58 kWh battery, alongside which featured a larger battery with a usable capacity of 72.6 kWh. As available market data shows, both of these versions underwent rapid development – the 72.6 kWh battery variant and the weaker 58 kWh all-wheel drive (4WD) version were withdrawn from the range as early as mid-2022. They were soon replaced by an improved 77.4 kWh battery, which brought not only a slight increase in range but also a noticeable increase in power – to 168 kW for the rear-wheel drive version and a respectable 239 kW for the all-wheel drive version with a massive torque of 605 Nm. All power units are paired with a smooth-functioning single-speed reduction gearbox. On the used car market, you will most often encounter an interesting turning point: in older model years, you will find the smaller 72.6 kWh batteries in advertisements, while cars from late 2022 onwards already feature the technically more refined 77.4 kWh architecture.

Volkswagen ID.4 approaches its engine range somewhat more traditionally and carefully divides the portfolio into many performance levels that clearly distinguish between regular and sport-oriented drivers. The entry point to the world of the ID.4 is a battery with a usable capacity of 52 kWh, available in Pure (109 kW) and Pure Performance (125 kW) versions. Production data, however, shows that the more powerful Pure Performance variant disappeared from catalogs as early as 2022. The vast majority of customers preferred the larger 77 kWh battery. This is most commonly found on the four-year-old used car market in the extremely popular Pro Performance version with 150 kW, although Volkswagen ended its sale in the autumn of 2023. For more demanding drivers, the Pro 4MOTION all-wheel drive (195 kW) was introduced in mid-2022, effectively filling the gap between the standard models and the high-performance GTX 4MOTION version (220 kW). Newer and significantly more powerful rear-wheel drive versions (210 kW) only appeared with a major update in 2024, so you will hardly find them on today's typical used car market yet.

Choosing the right electric motor and battery capacity is key to long-term satisfaction, as it directly affects real-world range, dynamics, and time spent at charging stations. When comparing roughly four-year-old used cars from 2021 and 2022, we encounter a fundamental generational and technological difference. While the Volkswagen ID.4 relies on the proven and somewhat more conservative 400V MEB platform, which is optimized for smooth and efficient daily operation, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 entered the market as a visionary pioneer. Its revolutionary 800V architecture allows it to achieve performance on ultra-fast chargers that its German competitors from those years simply cannot match. Our recommendations below are based on a detailed evaluation of performance, daily usability, and mechanical reliability observed in practice.

For the Hyundai IONIQ 5, we recommend: 72.6 kWh 2WD, 160 kW

For vehicles from the start of production, the rear-wheel-drive version with 160 kW (217 hp) is the clear "sweet spot" of the range. According to available data, the variant with this 72.6 kWh battery was produced for a relatively short time, only between 2021 and 2022, before the manufacturer replaced it with a slightly larger battery. This makes it a very attractive and time-limited opportunity on the used car market today, which you should definitely not overlook in advertisements. This specification provides perfectly smooth, brisk acceleration and, thanks to the absence of a heavy front electric motor, benefits from lower energy consumption and a larger front trunk (frunk), which is excellent for storing charging cables. The biggest trump card for long-distance travelers remains, of course, the ability to charge from 10 to 80% in a dazzling 18 minutes. However, when buying a used first-generation model, it is necessary to thoroughly check the service history, specifically the timely replacement of the so-called low-conductivity coolant for the battery. This special fluid insulates the battery system and prevents the risk of short circuits but is subject to degradation. Its periodic replacement, usually prescribed around 60,000 km, is one of the more expensive maintenance tasks. Neglecting it can gradually lead to battery management error messages or even limited charging performance; so be vigilant and always ask the seller for invoices confirming that maintenance of this critical point was performed on time.

For the Volkswagen ID.4, we recommend: Pro Performance (77 kWh) 2WD, 150 kW

The most sensible and versatile choice for a used family ID.4 is clearly the Pro Performance powertrain with the larger 77 kWh battery and a 150 kW (204 hp) rear electric motor. This version, dating from the first years of production and dominating the market as 2021 to 2023 models, represents the ideal entry into the world of travel without constant worry about the remaining range percentage. The weaker 52 kWh versions often lack highway versatility for such a massive and heavy SUV, so it's better to avoid them when buying. Conversely, the 150 kW output harmonizes perfectly with the car's comfortable, quiet tuning and easily handles safe overtaking even when the car is fully loaded. However, the main risk of buying a used ID.4 from the early production stages lies not in the electric drive, but in the software. Early models suffered from slow, freezing infotainment systems with frequent connection drops; therefore, during a test drive, ask to see the system information menu and avoid units that do not have at least version 3.0 installed (which significantly stabilized the issues). Regarding mechanical pitfalls, focus on the rear drum brakes during the test drive. Due to the common heavy use of smooth motor recuperation, conventional brakes are used only minimally by most calm drivers, which can lead to noticeable surface corrosion of the drums on older vehicles. The easiest way to detect a potential problem is to try braking harder mechanically with the brake pedal on a safe and clear stretch of road from a higher speed – if you hear a significant, deep grinding or metallic hum from the rear axle, you will need to invest in cleaning or even a complete replacement of these components after purchase.

Real-world electricity consumption

Official consumption figures provided by car manufacturers according to the WLTP cycle often paint an overly ideal picture that is difficult to achieve in real-world driving, especially in winter months or at higher highway speeds. For the most accurate comparison, we have therefore used real-world data from actual drivers from shared community platforms, such as the popular Spritmonitor.de portal. Since we are selecting a car approximately four years old from the perspective of the used car market, we focused on the first generations of both models available in 2021 and 2022.

A closer look at the aggregated data reveals that the base powertrains with smaller batteries (VW ID.4 with 52 kWh and Ioniq 5 with 58 kWh) are the most efficient thanks to their lower curb weight. The Volkswagen Group model leads slightly in efficiency here, thanks to the better aerodynamics of its more teardrop-shaped body. The Hyundai IONIQ 5, with its retro-futuristic and "boxier" design, offers noticeably more air resistance, which results in slightly higher consumption. This also applies to the more powerful and heavier versions with larger batteries (72.6 kWh, replaced by 77.4 kWh in newer models from late 2022). Unsurprisingly, the sporty Volkswagen ID.4 GTX is at the bottom of the table, where two electric motors and all-wheel drive demand the highest amount of energy. However, the differences compared to the single-axle drive versions are not dramatic.

For the average user, these numbers mean one fairly clear rule. If you move primarily in city traffic or on suburban roads, both cars will be highly efficient, and with a light foot, you can bring consumption down below 15 kWh/100 km. Conversely, for drivers covering many highway miles, the VW ID.4 will have a slight edge in terms of pure consumption thanks to smoother airflow. Here, however, the tables turn thanks to the Korean car's main trump card – the IONIQ 5 features an advanced 800V architecture. What the Hyundai loses in slightly higher consumption on long routes, it easily compensates for with lightning-fast rapid charging, in which it outperforms the more conservative ID.4 by tens of minutes.

In conclusion, it can be assessed that electricity consumption itself is unlikely to be the main deciding factor in choosing one or the other used electric car. Both cars from 2021 to 2023 average very similar, solid values around 17 to 18 kWh/100 km. When choosing, you should rather consider whether you prefer the smoother highway range of the Volkswagen, or whether you are happy to sacrifice about an extra kilowatt-hour for the striking design and more premium charging speed of the Hyundai.

Used Car Price Comparison: Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Volkswagen ID.4

Looking at the used car market for roughly four-year-old vehicles (model years 2021–2022), both models represent a very attractive entry point into family electromobility. These early model years have already passed the steepest part of the depreciation curve, meaning you can currently purchase them for a fraction of their original purchase prices.

Price Range and Market Supply

There is a slight difference in how these two popular cars hold their value on both the European and Czech markets. The Volkswagen ID.4 benefits from high sales volumes, which is reflected in a much wider selection of used cars and a noticeably lower starting price. In contrast, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 holds its residual value significantly better thanks to its unique 800V architecture and highly acclaimed retro-futuristic design.

(The prices listed are indicative and always depend on actual mileage, battery health (SoH), and specific equipment level.)

What do you get for your money?

When choosing in this age category, you should primarily consider your priorities in terms of technology and everyday family use:

• Volkswagen ID.4: Represents an excellent choice for buyers looking for the most affordable family electric car. For a price approaching €25,000, you get a very spacious SUV with a quiet ride and solid real-world range. However, with older models (especially from 2021), you must expect an older version of the infotainment system, which suffered from teething problems and slower response times. Therefore, always verify that the car has fully updated software.
• Hyundai Ioniq 5: The higher average price of this used car is well compensated by its top-tier technologies. Even as a four-year-old model, the car offers ultra-fast charging thanks to its advanced 800V network, which minimizes time spent at highway chargers. A huge bonus is the V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) technology, which allows you to easily charge an e-bike or plug in standard electrical appliances from the car.

Depreciation Curve

Both cars have gone through the classic price drop, which tends to be quite significant for electric vehicles in the first few years (usually 40 to 50% of the original value). For those interested in a used car, however, this is a win.

The Volkswagen ID.4 is undoubtedly the ideal rational choice if you have a tighter budget and are looking for maximum interior space at the lowest possible price. While the Hyundai Ioniq 5 from 2021–2022 will put more strain on your wallet at purchase, its technological lead in charging speed is so fundamental that the car ages much slower in terms of relevance and represents a more future-proof investment.

Both of these electric vehicles earned the maximum overall rating of five stars in tests by the independent organization Euro NCAP. However, when evaluating the safety of used cars, it is essential to always view these results in the context of the specific testing year. Euro NCAP methodologies and protocols evolve dynamically over time and are constantly becoming stricter – newer tests include, for example, more demanding simulations of frontal impacts against a mobile barrier, improved cyclist detection when turning, or sophisticated scenarios for safe intersection crossing. Therefore, percentage scores from different testing years usually cannot be directly compared. In the case of these popular used cars, which are roughly four years old, the situation is ideal: both the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volkswagen ID.4 underwent the original safety tests in the same year (2021) under identical conditions, allowing for a completely direct and objective comparison.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 underwent Euro NCAP safety tests in the autumn of 2021 according to the very demanding standards in force at the time. The car benefits from the very rigid new E-GMP chassis platform and offers advanced passive safety features as standard, including an important center airbag that prevents the heads of the driver and front passenger from colliding in a side impact. Adult occupant protection reached an excellent 88%, and child occupant protection a solid 86%. The model recorded a slightly weaker result in the area of vulnerable road user protection (pedestrians and cyclists), where it scored 63%, primarily due to harder deformation zones around the A-pillars. However, the car clearly made up for these lost points with a great score of 88% for safety assistance systems. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with precise detection and the advanced lane-keeping system worked particularly well.

Volkswagen ID.4

The Volkswagen ID.4 also underwent Euro NCAP testing during 2021 and demonstrated the excellent engineering preparation of its MEB platform. In terms of passive structural protection for the occupants, the ID.4 performed better than its Korean rival. It received an outstanding 93% for adult protection and 89% for child protection. The cabin remained completely stable during both frontal and side impacts, and like the Ioniq 5, the Volkswagen boasts the integration of a center front airbag. The German representative recorded a significant lead in vulnerable road user protection with a score of 76%, which demonstrates more considerate physical shaping of the front section and the seamless response of the radar systems. Conversely, a slight drop in points was seen in the evaluation of safety assistance systems, where the ID.4 achieved an overall score of 85%. Even so, this is an excellent result confirming that the car's active assistance reacts quickly and reliably in critical situations.

Both vehicles represent an exceptionally safe family choice for those interested in a used electric car, and the five-star certification from 2021 still guarantees a huge safety standard for today's road traffic (Euro NCAP certificates usually remain valid for six years, i.e., at least until the end of 2027). From a direct comparison, the Volkswagen ID.4 emerges as a slight winner in the field of pure structural strength and pedestrian protection; on the other hand, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 manages to keep up very capably thanks to the slightly more refined behavior of its active electronic systems and safety assistants.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that go beyond common specifications and bring a specific approach to added value, which can be decisive for the customer during the final selection.

Hyundai Ioniq 5: Retro-futurism and a mobile power plant

The Korean representative breaks established conventions and focuses on offering the crew maximum comfort not only during the drive but also during charging breaks.

• Technological innovations and charging: A key element is the 800V electrical architecture (more common in the premium segment like the Porsche Taycan), which enables ultra-fast charging from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes. Added to this is the unique V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) function, thanks to which the car can power external appliances – from a laptop to an electric grill or an e-bike – through a standard 230V socket.
• Smart design and interior: The car's cabin is designed as a mobile living room. Among the most interesting elements is the so-called Universal Island, which is a sliding center console that allows for comfortable exiting even on the opposite side of the car.
• Comfort and ergonomics: The front seats can be equipped with the Premium Relaxation function. At the touch of a button, they fully recline and a calf rest extends, creating an ideal position for resting during charging.
• Electronics and ecology: The equipment can include not only advanced dual displays and a head-up display with augmented reality (AR) elements, but also an optional solar roof, which in ideal conditions can continuously recharge the battery and add several dozen kilometers of extra range per year.

Volkswagen ID.4: Family practicality and digital interaction

The German competitor, on the other hand, bets on sleek modernity, minimalist control solutions, and technologies that facilitate daily life with a family-style car.

• Electronics and communication: A completely unique detail is the ID. Light – an intelligent light strip under the windshield. This strip visually communicates with the driver: pulsing indicates the charge level, turn direction according to navigation, or flashing urgently when warning of danger.
• Infotainment and innovation: The car is built on the concept of constant connectivity with the possibility of Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. The interface relies primarily on touch surfaces and sliders, while the driver is assisted by a sophisticated AR head-up display, which projects navigation arrows virtually directly onto the road in the driver's field of vision.
• Chassis and assistance systems: Volkswagen offers an optional DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) adaptive chassis, which provides an excellent balance between family comfort and confidence in corners. There is also the smart Travel Assist, which reliably takes over steering in highway traffic jams.
• Sporting heritage and engines: For drivers looking for greater dynamics, the GTX version is reserved in the portfolio. This complements the practical body with all-wheel drive, higher power, specific sporty bumper design, better seats, and an overall sharper performance, making it stand out both visually and dynamically from the standard ID.4 variants.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a perfect choice for technology enthusiasts and drivers who often travel long distances and will fully utilize its lightning-fast charging. It impresses with its bold concept and exceptionally airy interior, albeit at the cost of minor compromises in luggage volume and maneuverability.

The Volkswagen ID.4 primarily targets families and practically-minded customers looking for a spacious, quiet, and easy-to-handle electric SUV for everyday use. It offers excellent utility value and a huge trunk; however, when buying a used car, one must account for the less intuitive touch controls and older onboard system.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, service failure statistics, recalls, and user reports, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars should watch out for. A thorough physical inspection of a used car is always recommended to detect potential deficiencies before purchase.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

For the Ioniq 5 from the first years of production (around 2021 and 2022), defects mainly revolve around specific electronic components and charging systems, while mechanically and hardware-wise, it is a very solid car.

• Electronics and charging (ICCU): By far the most well-known and serious problem with this model. A defect in the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) can lead to the 12V battery stopping charging, the vehicle losing power while driving, or being unable to charge on a home AC wallbox. The manufacturer addressed this problem broadly with a major recall campaign involving software updates or direct physical replacement of the unit with a new one.
• 12V battery and its discharge: In close connection with a faulty ICCU unit, or due to excessive background communication of the Bluelink mobile app with the vehicle, some used cars experience frequent and unexpected discharge of the 12V battery. The car then becomes completely immobile, fails to start the high-voltage system, and requires jump-starting and subsequent battery replacement.
• Software and assistance system errors: Owners of early software versions often complained about an overzealous Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system, which reacted panically and unexpectedly to normal traffic situations. A standard vehicle software update at an authorized service center usually helps.
• Chassis and body: Rattling or unpleasant knocking is often heard from the tailgate area and the rear axle when driving over bumps. Service centers usually successfully resolve this annoyance with a minor adjustment and lubrication of the trunk stops, or by replacing a faulty tailgate lock mechanism.

Volkswagen ID.4

The first model years of the ID.4 (2021 and 2022) suffered from a number of so-called teething troubles, stemming from the automaker's effort to bring its first mass-market electric vehicle to market as quickly as possible, which is reflected in roughly four-year-old used cars mainly through software problems.

• Infotainment and software: An extremely common problem in older vehicles with original software (version 2.x). Issues include central screen freezing, very slow responses, unexpected system restarts, or completely black displays, which also disables the reversing camera. Most of these errors are corrected by extensive service updates to software version 3.0 and newer, which significantly stabilize the system.
• 12V battery problems: Early ID.4 models left the factory with an undersized 12V battery. This not only wore out quickly but also couldn't handle the energy demands of the vehicle's large over-the-air (OTA) updates. Volkswagen therefore announced a broad service campaign for its physical replacement with a more durable EFB/AGM type.
• Charging errors and communication: In used cars from early production, problems with communication between the car and third-party public DC fast-charging stations appear quite frequently. Charging may terminate prematurely, freeze at 50%, or not start at all, with the dashboard reporting an indefinite charging system error.
• Door handles and water ingress: A very serious recall in the early stages of production addressed faulty seals on the door handles. Ingressing moisture caused a short circuit on the electronic board inside the mechanism, which in some units could lead to the doors unexpectedly opening on their own while driving at very low speeds.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Although electric vehicles are generally mechanically simpler than cars with internal combustion engines, both of these models have specifics worth focusing on during selection, where a careful physical car inspection can help.

When choosing a Hyundai Ioniq 5:

• ICCU unit status and charging: The Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) represents a known risk in early model years on the E-GMP platform. If it fails, you won't be able to charge the car or the 12V battery will drain completely. Insist on a fast charging (DC) and slow charging (AC) test and check the service book to see if the car has undergone the relevant recall and software update.
• Special coolant replacement: The Ioniq 5 uses a more expensive low-conductivity coolant for the battery system, which has a relatively short replacement interval (often 60,000 km or 3 years). Check the service history to see if the replacement has been carried out; otherwise, you face an unexpected and significant expense right after purchase. Also check the level in the reservoir under the hood.
• Noises from the rear of the interior: Take the car on a road with a poor surface and listen carefully for sounds from the back. A common problem is squeaking or knocking from the tailgate, which, while often solvable by simply adjusting the stops or lubricating the lock, can make the drive very unpleasant.
• Tire wear and wheel alignment: Since it is a heavy and powerful car (especially in the AWD version), tires can wear out unexpectedly quickly. Check the tread depth and especially uneven wear on the inner edges of the rear tires. If the tires are "shaved" unevenly, wheel alignment will be necessary, which a detailed technical inspection of the car will also point out.
• Infotainment stability: The system should operate smoothly and without freezing. While driving, try entering a destination into the navigation and switching between menus. Random restarts or a non-functional connection with the Bluelink app indicate outdated software that requires a service visit.

When choosing a Volkswagen ID.4:

• Software version and system stability: This is an absolutely key point. Early ID.4 models from 2021–2022 had problematic software from the factory (version 2.x), which froze and caused assistant failures. Check the settings to see if the car has already received an update to version 3.0 or newer. If the car still has the old software, the system will be frustrating to use.
• Recall for the 12V battery: In order for Volkswagen to upload large over-the-air software updates for the first model years, it had to preventively replace the original 12V lead-acid batteries with stronger ones as part of a service campaign. Verify whether this procedure was carried out at an authorized service center.
• Noises from the front axle: The ID.4 can be troublesome with squeaking or dull knocking from the front axle when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces. Most often, these are worn stabilizer links or squeaking lower control arm bushings. During a test drive over bumps, roll down the windows, turn off the radio, and listen. A comprehensive car inspection will reliably help detect these chassis play issues.
• Electronic door handles: The model uses electronic buttons hidden on the inside of the fixed exterior handles. Moisture occasionally gets into this mechanism in early model years, which can cause the doors to not open from the outside at all. Walk around the car and test opening all four doors several times.
• Capacitive buttons on the steering wheel: Test every touch pad on the steering wheel, ideally while driving. Sometimes the panels stop responding to finger touch, or conversely, react too sensitively to a mere slight brush of the hand. Replacing the entire control module is quite expensive.

Sources: ADAC, idnes.cz, svetmotoru.cz, autoservis.cz, autorevue.cz, cistadoprava.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.