Volkswagen has been on a quiet but steady march toward making electric cars genuinely accessible. The new ID.Cross is perhaps the clearest expression of that yet. A compact electric SUV set to be priced from around €28,000, it takes aim at one of the most competitive segments in the market and arrives with a surprisingly strong hand. Here's what you need to know.

Performance and range: more than enough for Irish roads

The ID.Cross launches with three power outputs, 85 kW, 99 kW, and 155 kW, and two battery options: 37 kWh and 52 kWh net. The larger battery paired with the most powerful motor delivers a WLTP range of up to 436 km, which is a genuinely usable figure for everyday Irish driving, including longer runs between cities.

Fast charging is handled well too. DC charging comes in at 90 kW as standard, stepping up to 105 kW on the 52 kWh battery. In practical terms, that means shorter stops and more time on the road, exactly what you want from a family SUV.

Interior: a genuine step up

This is where the ID.Cross makes its strongest argument. Step inside and the quality of materials immediately exceeds what you'd expect at this price. Fabric-covered surfaces, high seat comfort, and intuitive controls throughout.

Other highlights include a 425-watt Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic roof that floods the cabin with light, and pneumatic massage seats with three programmes as an option, a feature you'd normally only find in upper-class vehicles.

With 475 litres of boot space, the ID.Cross offers 20 litres more than the T-Cross, a meaningful difference for families or anyone who regularly needs the extra room. There's also a 22-litre frunk under the bonnet, ideal for storing your charging cable or keeping smaller items secure and out of the main cabin.

The verdict

The ID.Cross arrives at an interesting moment. The compact SUV market is crowded, but few rivals offer this combination of price, practicality, and interior quality in one package. Starting from around €28,000, it makes a compelling case for going electric without going premium.