Volkswagen’s all-electric family is getting bigger.
The largest ID yet, the three-row ID.6 SUV, has been snapped under disguise designed to make it look like a Peugeot.
Based on the MEB electric platform debuted in the ID.3 hatchback, the ID.6 was previewed by the ID.Roomzz concept.
It will be the largest member of the ID range at launch, with three rows of seating inside. That makes it a logical rival for the Tesla Model X, although fancy Falcon Wing doors are unlikely to feature on a sensible Volkswagen.
The concept preceding the ID.6 had 225kW of power from its dual-motor all-wheel drive system, and an 82kWh battery pack with a maximum range of 450km.
It’s unknown what drivetrains will be offered in the production version.
Single motor rear-wheel drive options available in the related Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq include 109kW and 125kW motors paired to a 52kWh battery, and a 129kW or 150kW motor with a 77kWh battery.
The ID.6 is bigger than those cars, making more powerful options likely.
Expect the ID.6 to follow closely in the footsteps of its electric stablemates on the styling front. The front end appears to be home to clean, simple headlights, and the flanks are relatively clean.
Although it’s technically an SUV, the ID.6 has a tall roofline and boxy rear end to free up space for third-row passengers. In that sense, it’s also part MPV or minivan.
Down back, the LED light signature is expected to carry over from cars like the ID.3 hatch and ID.4 SUV.
The ID.6 is expected to launch in 2022 for China and North America.
It’s not clear exactly when Volkswagen’s electric push will start in Australia. At the moment, it’s on track for 2022 or 2023.
The ID.4 (below) is expected to come Down Under before the ID.3 because of Australia’s love affair with SUVs.
“It would be logical if we go the ID.4, the SUV [first]. I think the market here now is 65, 64 per cent SUV,” said Michael Bartsch, Volkswagen Australia managing director.
“That would make the most sense, that’s where the business model would be, because the volume would be there, because that’s where the market is.”
