VW Shows Off ID.7 Electric Super Saloon Concept The ID X

The Volkswagen ID X Performance concept represents a glimpse into the future of Volkswagen's performance-oriented models. It's based on the upcoming ID.7 EV.

The Volkswagen ID X Performance concept represents a glimpse into the future of Volkswagen's performance-oriented models, showcasing an impressive 558bhp electric sports saloon and is based on the upcoming ID.7 luxury EV (electric vehicle).

This unique one-off creation marks a significant leap in power compared to Volkswagen's existing electric vehicles, nearly doubling the output of the brand's most potent road-ready EVs.

Unveiled during the annual Volkswagen ID Driver’s Club meeting in Switzerland, the ID X Performance serves as a powerful statement of Volkswagen's commitment to electric sports cars. It's worth noting that this concept shares the 'X' designation with a previous four-wheel-drive performance variant of the Volkswagen ID.3, a model introduced more quietly in 2021.

Andreas Reckewerth, Volkswagen's head of technology for the platform, expressed enthusiasm for the creative possibilities offered by the MEB platform, stating,

"The MEB offers many fantastic possibilities forapproaching vehicle development with a great deal of creativity. It was clear to us that we wanted to base our new show car on the ID.7 and that we would focus on enhancing the performance. In this way we can show what is possible"

While specific details about how closely the ID X concept aligns with the confirmed Volkswagen ID 7 GTX remain undisclosed, it's known that the production version is expected to combine the base model's 282bhp rear motor with the ID.4 GTX's 107bhp front motor, resulting in a combined output of approximately 390bhp.

There's also speculation about a potential 'ID.7 R' model that could draw inspiration directly from this concept, especially considering Volkswagen's commitment to an electric future for its top-tier performance sub-brand.

Visually, the concept stands out from the standard ID.7 with its distinctive features, including a robust front splitter and a rear diffuser crafted from carbon fibre. It sits 60mm lower to the ground and rides on 20-inch wheels fitted with 265-section track tires. Tinted rear lights and a sleek matte grey paint finish complete its striking appearance.

Powering the ID X Performance are two motors, one on each axle, producing a combined output of 558bhp. While this figure surpasses the BMW i4 M50, it falls slightly short of the most powerful Mercedes-AMG EQE 53. However, like the AMG, the ID X Performance boasts a boost function, delivering additional power over short bursts.

Although specific performance figures haven't been disclosed, it's safe to assume that the high-performance all-wheel-drive ID.7 will accelerate from 0-62mph in well under 4.0 seconds, rivalling the Tesla Model 3 Performance in this regard.

The performance theme extends to the interior, featuring red accents on the steering wheel and dashboard, carbon bucket seats, and Alcantara upholstery on the dashboard and door panels. It retains Volkswagen's latest 15.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, operating the firm's advanced MIB infotainment software.

While the ID X Performance's range is expected to be slightly less than the ID.7's impressive 435 miles (assuming it utilizes the same 86kWh battery), Volkswagen assures that it will still support rapid charging at a rate of 200kW. 

Regarding the range, it's normal for EV performance variants to have less mileage range due to them prioritising acceleration and power over versatility.