It’s essentially the same vehicle under the skin, but with a more elegant, sloping coupe-like roofline that adds an extra touch of flair. The ID.5 seems like the stylish upgrade to the ID.4, akin to choosing a Smeg refrigerator.

Of course, this approach isn’t unique to Volkswagen. You’ll find similar stylistic upgrades in the Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback and the Skoda Enyaq Coupe.

Both of these, like the ID.5 GTX, offer a fresh take on the practical electric SUV formula while catering to those who crave a bit more curb appeal.

It’s fast

Both the regular Volkswagen ID.5 and ID.5 GTX use the same 82kWh battery, but the GTX benefits from a second motor that boosts power to 335bhp, compared to the regular variant’s 282bhp.

If you’re expecting neck-snapping, throw-you-into-your-seat acceleration, you might want to temper your expectations a little. The ID.5 GTX delivers power smoothly, making it more comfortable than thrilling.

Sure, it’ll run the century mile in just 5.4 seconds, but it’s more of a composed performer than a high-adrenaline thrill machine. To me this is a good thing; think of it as a reliable choice for dicing through traffic rather than make you sick each time your right foot becomes heavy.

But it’s numb

Sadly, despite the added firepower, the GTX doesn’t feel dramatically different from the regular ID.5. It’s brisk, sure, but it doesn’t give you that deep sense of satisfaction you’d expect from a performance car.

The stiff suspension means it’s not the most comfortable crossover out there, despite the chunkier tyres. And it’s a heavy beast, tipping the scales at 2,242kg in its most basic form. That weight, combined with the stiff suspension and overly weighted-steering, can make it feel a bit cumbersome.

It’s a bit like driving in a video game with all the assists turned on; efficient and easy, but lacking that connection that makes driving feel human. 

The four-wheel-drive system keeps things in check, and it’ll get you where you’re going efficiently enough. But will it make you want to take the long, winding scenic route? Probably not. The GTX feels more like a means to an end rather than a thrilling drive.

There are still places where it shines

Where the ID.5 GTX shines, is its role as a highway cruiser. It’s stable, quiet, and eats up the miles with minimal fuss. The electric powertrain is efficient, and it’s dependable in traffic, too, with weighty but predictable steering and solid pedal feel.

In that case, for everyday driving, you might actually prefer the extra range you’d get from the less powerful variants. 

Speaking of range, smooth throttle inputs yield impressive efficiency, with the ID.5 GTX averaging 17.7kWh/100km (5.6km/kWh), remarkable for a dual-motor EV. You could easily cover at least 450km on a single charge, which is typically enough for a week’s worth of commuting.

It looks the same as the ID.4… right?

Well, mostly. From the front to the B-pillar, it’s basically the same car. But where the ID.4 sticks to typical SUV proportions, the ID.5 goes for a sleeker, coupe-like finish. 

But does the ID.5 really look better than the ID.4? Honestly, it’s a toss-up. Personally, I do like the more aggressive styling, and it gives the ID.5 more character.

And though the ID.4 is already pretty spacious with its 543-litre boot, the ID.5 manages to outdo it by offering 549 litres. This is due to the rear bench being pushed slightly forwards, in order for taller passengers to not bump up against the roofline of the ID.5. 

Although, even if you have both cars side by side, it is pretty tricky to tell there’s a difference.

How’s the space on the inside?

The interior is minimalist and spacious. Even with the coupe-like roofline, there’s plenty of room for three adults in the back, thanks to the flat floor. Storage is generous too, with a modular console and multiple pockets for your gadgets, plus plenty of USB ports scattered throughout.

The ID.5 GTX version spices things up with some sporty touches like GTX-specific badging, stitching, and bolstered sports seats that do a great job of holding you in place during cornering. And the panoramic sunroof is a real highlight, flooding the cabin with natural light and giving the space an airy feel.

No buttons, really?

Volkswagen has taken a “let’s go all-in on screens” approach with the ID.5. You’ll find a few haptic switches on the steering wheel, but apart from that, your entire interaction with the car is through the big 12.9-inch touchscreen in the centre.

The screen itself is crisp, with high-resolution graphics, and a few shortcut pads for commonly used menus. It works pretty well in practice, and the menus are simple enough to navigate, bar the climate controls.

Volkswagen touts the ‘Hello ID’ voice assistant as a solution to the screen’s quirks, but voice commands aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Then there are the touch controls on the steering wheel. They’re too sensitive, and it’s easy to brush against them accidentally, which can get annoying. And they don’t offer that tactile feedback you’d want when making selections.

On top of that, there are some questionable material choices. The dash, door panels, and knee-level surfaces feature plastics that feel more budget-friendly than premium. You’d think they’d go all out on materials, given the ID.5’s target audience.

The cabin isn’t all too bad, and it is liveable for the most part, except for one small irritating quirk; if you hop out for quick errands while leaving the car on, it will shut off every time you get off the seat. There’s no override for this, and it can get pretty frustrating.

Interesting impasse

The Volkswagen ID.5 GTX, on paper, seems like a solid enough effort from Volkswagen. But, like the ID.4 GTX I covered previously, it’s tough trying to justify spending more for the GTX, when the regular ID.5 works well and can perform almost everything its dual-motor sibling can muster.

It is by no means a bad car, but it’s just not compelling enough.

The GTX nameplate, in particular, feels forced. Instead of adding something special to the lineup, it just feels like another ID.5 variant with a few cosmetic tweaks. It deserves to be attached to something truly exciting, something Volkswagen has yet to create.

Technical Specifications

Volkswagen ID.5 GTX Electric

Powertrain: Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive
Power: 290kW (389bhp)
Torque: 545Nm
Gearbox: Single Speed (A)
Acceleration: 5.4 Seconds (0-100km/h)
Battery Capacity: 82 kWh
Drive Range: 533 km
Energy Consumption: 4.7 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$265,900 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Volkswagen Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Volkswagen Group Singapore just hit the refresh button on their Volkswagen Life and Škoda Smart apps, and it’s a turbocharged transformation for an elevated ownership experience.

Imagine this: managing your four-wheeled companion with the ease of scrolling through your favourite playlist. Well, now you can. The app overhaul makes scheduling services, using credits, and redeeming vouchers a breeze, all under one shared account. It’s like having a personal concierge for your car.

And here’s the twist – primary and secondary owners now dance to the same tune, streamlining the entire vehicle management symphony. No more juggling, just smooth coordination.

Registering your ride in the app is like getting a VIP pass to a world of perks. Service credits and appointment bookings are just a tap away. Plus, say goodbye to forgetting those crucial service appointments; automated reminders have your back.

The app also showers you with exclusive offers, vouchers, and after-sales packages. And for those who dread the check-in hassle, fear not. A simple QR code is your golden ticket to hassle-free entry at Volkswagen or Škoda Singapore. No more waiting in lines.

Now, let’s talk gifts. As a welcome treat, new app users snag an exclusive voucher for a 10% discount on aftersales accessories or services. It’s like a little welcome gift for your car, courtesy of Volkswagen Group Singapore.

But hold your horsepower because there’s more. If you find yourself around 247 Alexandra Road or 26 Leng Kee Road, brace yourself for some year-end magic. The Miracle Makeover programme is here to give your car a fresh start. A full respray, minor repairs, and a five-year paint warranty, starting at just $2,800.

And for those who just want a touch-up, grooming packages are on the menu. A $20 discount awaits, making your car shine inside out. Prices start from $168, ensuring your ride turns heads wherever it goes.

Planning a holiday road trip? Volkswagen Group Singapore has you covered. Service your vehicle and enjoy a complimentary pre-travel inspection check. It’s like a health checkup for your car, ensuring a smooth journey. Oh, and let’s not forget the extended roadside assistance package. For just $150 over two years, you get a dedicated assistance team and free towing. It’s peace of mind, anytime, anywhere.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the future of car ownership with Volkswagen Group Singapore. Your car deserves it, and you do too.

Helpful Links To Volkswagen Group Singapore Apps

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Buckle up, my friends, as we take a devilish detour into the bewitching world of All Hallows’ Eve. In the spirit of the season, Volkswagen Singapore has unleashed a quartet of chilling characters to haunt the streets in style – say hello to Panky Pontianak, Madcap Mummy, Zany Zombie, and Voracious Vampress.

A Halloween-themed video was also brewed up that’s sure to send shivers down your spine, or maybe just a delightful chill. Because Halloween isn’t just about the monsters lurking under the bed; it’s also about the ones that prowl the road. And what better way to get around town than with the ever-silent Volkswagen ID.4, making sure these ghouls get the jump on any unsuspecting prey.

These characters may be spooky, but they’re here to prove that Volkswagen’s ID.4 is not just a car; it’s a statement, an experience, and a journey into the supernatural world of electrifying and eco-friendly driving. It’s a Halloween treat for the senses, and it’ll have you screaming for more. Just, make sure you don’t run into them at your local charging station.

On behalf of Volkswagen Singapore, happy haunting my fellow road wanderers!

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Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a business, they’ve got something special tailored just for you.

Now, let’s dive right into it, shall we? Picture this: you’re yearning for that premium SUV experience, the kind that makes you feel like you own the road. Well, Volkswagen Singapore has your back with the all-new Touareg leasing programme.

Starting at just $5,699 per month, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill deal. It’s an all-inclusive package that covers pretty much everything under the sun – warranty, servicing, wear and tear parts replacement, a guaranteed replacement vehicle, 24-hour roadside assistance, insurance, and road tax coverage.

And here’s the cherry on top – you can enjoy this luxurious ride without any down payment, and when the lease is up, you have the flexibility to purchase it. Imagine driving a brand-new vehicle without breaking the bank.

And if you’re planning a little getaway to Malaysia, fret not, because the Touareg is insured for your cross-border escapades. It’s the SUV that combines luxury, versatility, and performance like a perfectly mixed cocktail.

The Touareg’s stylish design and premium interior materials create an ambience that can rival even the snazziest luxury SUVs out there. Plus, it’s got a spacious cabin that’s all about comfort, advanced tech features for connectivity and safety, and a turbocharged V6 engine that’s like a symphony of power and performance. 

There are limited units available for this Touareg leasing programme, so you better hustle if you want to get behind the wheel of this beauty. For all the juicy details, head over to this highlighted text bit.

Now, let’s talk business. If you’re a savvy business owner looking for a ride that’s as practical as it is versatile, the Volkswagen Caddy is here to answer your call. Starting from $63,400 before COE, this Caddy is all about mixing business with pleasure.

When you buy a new Caddy, you’ll get a whole bunch of goodies thrown in – complimentary solar film with installation, a Thinkware in-car camera to keep an extra eye on the road, one year of road tax coverage, three years of warranty, and complimentary servicing.

And guess what? This offer is on the table until 31 December 2023.

The Caddy, now in its fifth generation, is like the Swiss Army knife of vehicles. It’s got a spacious cargo area that you can customize to fit all your goods and gadgets. From tradesmen to delivery services, this van has you covered.

Under the hood, it’s powered by a slick 2.0-litre TDI engine that’s all about torque and power. With a fuel economy of 4.6 L/100 km, it’s the king of efficiency in its class. Say goodbye to hefty fuel costs, long refuelling downtime, and frequent servicing because the Caddy is here to save the day. It’s compact, manoeuvrable, and built to last, just like a trusty workhorse should be.

The Caddy benefits from Volkswagen’s MQB platform, which means you’re in for a smooth and comfortable ride. It’s designed to tackle the urban jungle with ease, and whether you’re navigating city traffic or working hard on-site, this van is your trusty sidekick.

If this has got your business senses tingling, you can schedule a test drive or connect with a sales consultant here.

Don’t miss out on these fantastic deals with Volkswagen Singapore!

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Volkswagen Singapore has recently teamed up with Wildflower Studio to promote the joy of feline-assisted experiences.

Wildflower Studio combines art jamming with the concept of a cat café. The first of its kind in Singapore, all sessions include interaction with cats that are up for adoption. The studio partners with cat rescue groups, working tirelessly to foster, rehabilitate, and socialize injured or abandoned cats, all in the hopes of finding them forever homes. A true oasis for our furry friends.

To assist with transportation needs, Volkswagen Singapore has kindly donated a Volkswagen T-Cross. This one is lovingly nicknamed the ‘Volksmeowbile’, and it’s on a special mission under the heartwarming ‘Purrs for Hearts’ programme.

The T-Cross enables cats from Wildflower Studio to be given a chance to spread their furry love, comfort, and support among the nursing home residents, plus provides them easy access to vet visits where needed. 

“We are happy to be a part of this meaningful endeavour, enriching the lives of those in need and fostering the special bond between humans and animals. Together, we can make a difference and bring smiles to the faces of the residents in these challenging times,” said Dr Kurt Leitner, Managing Director, Volkswagen Group Singapore.

So, if you’re a cat lover, an art lover, or just someone who can’t resist a heartwarming story, you’ve got to check out Wildflower Studio and its delightful ‘Volksmeowbile’. Let the cats do what they do best – make the world a better place, one purr at a time.

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