IAA premiere of the ID. Cross Concept: VW previews electric T-Cross

When everyone still assumed that the production model based on the 2023 ID.2all study would simply be called ID.2, the name ID.2 X was under discussion for the SUV model for a long time. But since Wednesday, it is clear that the ID.2 will actually be called ID. Polo, with VW extending its combustion-era naming scheme into the EV era – prefixed with “ID.”.

The upcoming small SUV will not follow that same logic, so there will be no ID. Polo X. In the combustion line-up, the SUV in Polo format is the T-Cross. Since “ID. T-Cross” sounded too clumsy, VW has decided on ID. Cross – a name the carmaker confirmed at the study’s premiere.

Since even the name was decided long before the series debut, there are now only a few unresolved issues regarding the electric small SUV. VW plans to build the ID. Cross from next year alongside the Skoda Epiq at its plant in Pamplona, Spain. The VW ID. Polo and Cupra Raval will roll off the line in Martorell.

VW has also provided first technical data. The front-mounted electric motor delivers 155 kW. The flat battery in the sandwich floor should enable up to 420 kilometres of WLTP range – Skoda had already announced “over 400 kilometres” for its Epiq in 2024. That fits the picture: VW promised 450 kilometres for the lower ID. Polo (formerly ID.2all). It has not yet specified the output for the base model, only for the sporty ID. Polo GTI at 166 kW. With the new figure for the ID. Cross, it seems likely the regular ID. Polo will also deliver 155 kW.

VW has not yet disclosed energy content or charging performance. The 420-kilometre version likely features the optional NMC battery, while the entry-level €25,000 version will use an LFP pack. VW is expected to reveal details only at the world premiere in May 2026.

At 4.16 metres long, 1.84 wide, 1.59 high and with a wheelbase of 2.60 metres, the ID. Cross study matches the T-Cross. The electric SUV should offer up to 450 litres of boot space and a 25-litre frunk. With fold-flat seats, a bed-like surface becomes possible – reminiscent of a VW Bus. A tow bar for up to 1,200 kilograms is also on the cards, or alternatively a bike rack for two e-bikes thanks to 75 kilograms drawbar load. VW claims these features will make production, though confirmation will come at the 2026 premiere.

One detail is less likely: the 21-inch wheels. “In cooperation with Goodyear, special 235/40 R21 tyres were designed for the show car, which continue the design of the rim in the tyre sidewall,” VW explains. Attractive, but with limited series potential – especially for the entry trims.

ID. Cross references Volkswagen’s design icons

Most other design elements appear close to series. Like other small-car studies, the design follows three pillars: “Stability”, “Sympathy” and “Secret Sauce”. Proportions ensure stability, while the lines are meant to radiate positivity. “A Volkswagen must be likeable, unmistakable and inspire with its character,” says chief designer Andreas Mindt. “ That’s why we deliberately evoke Volkswagen icons such as the Golf and the VW bus in the ID. Cross Concept – on top, as a dash of ‘secret sauce’. This can be seen, for example, in the charismatic C-pillars and the completely straight window line. Few volume brands in the world can draw on such a strong heritage. And that will always be in in our toolkit on our journey into the future.”

The “Urban Jungle” paint picks up on the current green trend. Inside, beige fabrics dominate. VW wants to create a “lounge-style ambiance”. The brand highlights “outstanding material quality and feel, including fabric-covered surfaces.” Preconfigured “Atmospheres” for light, sound and climate turn the “Vanilla Chai” interior into a comfortable lounge. Plant motifs on the screens and real plants in the floating centre console underline the effect.

For many VW drivers, a different change will provide greater relief: the widely criticised touch panels on the steering wheel will give way to real buttons. Touchscreens remain – with a 13-inch infotainment display in the centre and an 11-inch driver display behind the wheel.

“From the very beginning, my goal was to shape the best version of the Volkswagen brand of all time,” says brand boss Thomas Schäfer. “The near-production concept car of the ID. CROSS1 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”.

Source: Information per e-mail

This article was first published by Sebastian Schaal for electrive’s German version.