Volkswagen ID. CROSS Concept: Compact Electric SUV for Everyday Mobility

Volkswagen has introduced the ID. CROSS Concept at the 2025 IAA Mobility show in Munich. This compact SUV represents a clear move toward affordable electric mobility and will join the brand’s upcoming family of entry-level EVs, alongside the ID. Polo and ID. EVERY1. The concept provides a near-production preview of a model set to launch in 2026.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, described it as a “near-production concept car of the future,” combining improved design, quality and usability with a familiar Volkswagen identity.

Design Philosophy: Pure Positive

The ID. CROSS adopts Volkswagen’s new Pure Positive design language. The approach is marked by clear surfaces, expressive details and a welcoming character. At the front, 3D light signatures and a smiling grille create an approachable, almost playful presence, evoking heritage cues from the Golf and VW Bus.

Finished in Urban Jungle green with black roof pillars, a floating roof design and large 21-inch Balboa alloy wheels, the ID. CROSS projects both personality and modernity. With a length of 4,161 millimetres and a wheelbase of 2,601 millimetres, the proportions are close to the current T-Cross but with a more confident stance.

Practicality in a Compact Form

Despite its modest footprint, the ID. CROSS delivers surprising practicality. A 450-litre boot is complemented by a 25-litre front compartment, providing flexibility for urban and suburban use. The body design prioritises width and interior openness, giving passengers more space than expected in this segment.

The interior atmosphere continues the lounge-like theme. Warm “Vanilla Chai” tones, fabric soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting and natural plant accents in the floating centre console contribute to a homely feel. The rear seats fold completely flat, opening the possibility of overnight use in a style reminiscent of Volkswagen’s camper heritage.

Interior Technology

Technology is designed to be intuitive rather than overwhelming. A redesigned multifunction steering wheel combines traditional controls with modern haptics. Two digital displays form the core of the cockpit: an 11-inch screen for the driver and a 13-inch central display for infotainment and vehicle settings. Both are aligned on a single visual axis to simplify the flow of information. Voice interaction and straightforward menu layouts further reinforce ease of use.

Powertrain and Platform

The ID. CROSS is built on Volkswagen’s updated MEB+ platform, which will also underpin the brand’s future small EVs. The concept is equipped with a front-mounted 155-kilowatt motor, providing a WLTP range of up to 420 kilometres and a top speed of 175 kilometres per hour.

A trailer hitch supports up to 75 kilograms of load, extending the versatility of this compact SUV. This makes it suitable not only for urban households but also for those seeking a practical second vehicle with added functionality.

Looking Toward Production

Volkswagen plans to roll out its new generation of entry-level electric models starting in mid-2026, with the ID. CROSS forming a cornerstone of that line-up. By combining approachable design with strong everyday usability and competitive pricing expected in the €28,000 to €30,000 range, Volkswagen is aiming to make electric driving a mainstream choice for European customers.

Specification Highlights

Feature	Detail
Vehicle type	Compact electric SUV concept
Length / Wheelbase	4,161 mm / 2,601 mm
Storage capacity	450 litres boot + 25 litres front
Interior design	Lounge-inspired with warm tones
Displays	11-inch driver + 13-inch central
Powertrain	155 kW front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	Up to 420 kilometres
Platform	Volkswagen MEB+
Production timeline	Mid-2026
Estimated price	€28,000–€30,000

The ID. CROSS Concept demonstrates how Volkswagen intends to translate its heritage of approachable, practical cars into the electric age. It combines charm and functionality with technology that feels natural to use. By focusing on affordability, space and everyday usability, it positions itself as one of the most significant steps in Volkswagen’s transition to electric mobility.