First-time EV buyer says a used VW ID.4 crushed the fears that kept them waiting

Buying a used Volkswagen ID.4 changed one first-time EV shopper's outlook, easing many of the worries that had delayed the move away from gas. 

After years of driving a Mazda CX-5, they said the quieter cabin, strong acceleration, and convenience of charging at home made the difference feel obvious right away.

Here's what to know

In a Reddit thread, the original poster said they bought a certified pre-owned 2023 VW ID.4 AWD Pro S with about 13,000 miles for roughly $26,300 out the door.

For the OP, the deal itself was part of the appeal: they called the value "absurd" and said they regretted not making the switch sooner.

The new EV owner said the move from a Mazda CX-5 delivered a bigger day-to-day upgrade than expected. 

"The ride is unbelievably quiet and smooth, the acceleration is fantastic," they wrote, adding that not needing gas stations anymore was "something I never realized I'd appreciate this much."

The OP also said the battery and range "have been so much better than I expected."

Other Redditors shared similar reactions. One commenter wrote, "ID.4 is a great driving car. Maybe a little underwhelming on paper, but a pleasure behind the wheel, truly just a great car that happens to be an EV." 

The original poster added, "The driving experience is so pleasant for a $26K car it's insane really. … It's shockingly fun to drive. Easily the funnest car I've ever owned "

More background

The new EV owner said the battery's real-world range helped settle many of their doubts about EV ownership, and getting used to charging at home made the transition easier. They noted that they test-drove "a few Teslas" and a Ford Mustang Mach-E before settling on the ID.4.

They said the Volkswagen stood out as "the best overall package," pointing to its under-$30,000 price, low mileage, certified pre-owned status, fun driving feel, and interior space that exceeded their expectations.

One commenter joked, "Think of the thousands of dollars you wasted on gas, oil changes, maintenance," framing the delay in switching as years of missed savings.

The comments centered on lower fuel costs, fewer maintenance appointments, and the used purchase price.

One commenter said, "It's like joining the future," while the OP added, "Just wish I'd made the switch sooner."

Where can I learn more?

If you're weighing a first EV, upfront cost, expected range, and charging speed can shape the decision. 

• Across Reddit, drivers said going electric felt obvious once they lived with home charging.

• Auto experts debunked common EV myths about range, charging, and cost.

• In the U.K., a company said battery health grading gave used-EV shoppers clearer answers.

• For many drivers, owning an EV costs less over time than gas cars.

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