ID.4

Make
Volkswagen
Segment
SUV

Volkswagen hopes a new and free software update program for the ID.4 will make it a more compelling EV, announcing that the update will begin with 2021 MY ID.4s and continue to certain 2022 MY cars. The ID.4 has been criticized for its subpar infotainment system and other vital notification tech. The German automaker aims to fix that and more. VW says that new features will "enhance the charging experience," while also further improving the performance of the much-maligned infotainment unit.

Volkswagen is making the first update mandatory, but only if you want access to the new features, which include Auto Hold. The first update will lay the groundwork for upcoming ones, and eligible owners will get a notification once the update is available.

One of VW's big talking points is its collaboration with Electrify America. For those out of the loop, ID.4 owners get three years of free fast charging via EA. The network has its ups and downs. Our Mercedes EQS loaner was "eaten" by an EA charger once, leaving us stuck at the local Target for over an hour.

Foibles aside, VW's new update will at least ensure you can find a charger faster. The new upgrade also adds charge routing to the ID.4's nav system, and you'll be able to filter by EA stations only, ensuring you find a fast charger. Speaking of, you'll be able to do that as well via a filter-by-charge-speed feature that will be available.

We mentioned Auto Hold earlier, and it's one of the nicer modern luxuries found in new cars. Now, ID.4s will be able to release the brake pedal while the car stays stationary. The feature can be deactivated via the shortcut menu.

The digital display gets an update as well, with battery information like state of charge and range now shown in the display. Your current drive mode will show as well, and a new trip computer that factors in current driving data with ambient temps should give more accurate readings. VW has patched some bugs, and in the future, it will add Plug & Charge functionality with more remote-access features.

VW has not said when 21 MY owners will receive communication regarding the update, but they will need to head to the dealer for the update and a new 12v battery. 22 MY owners will receive a notification regarding the next steps soon.