The value of used electric cars is not always as high as their combustion engine counterparts, with some electric cars depreciating by as much as $600 per day. It’s crazy when you think about it, but concerns about battery degradation, charging nuances and technological obsolescence are justified in a market where technology and modernity are crucial.
Falling EV prices are bad news for early adopters, but good news for buyers looking for a used EV bargain. An example of this is the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, the German brand’s first all-new electric car for North America since the e-Golf, which Volkswagen canceled in 2020.
Launched in 2021 in Pro, Pro S and 1st Edition versions, the VW ID.4 had an MSRP of less than $45,000, but it has succumbed to a similar fate as the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Kona EV from the same period. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) consumer ratings gave the 2021 VW ID.4 a somewhat stellar 4 out of 5 based on quality, performance, comfort, styling, value for money and reliability. However, the figures also show that its value has fallen by 55% in five years, which amounts to approximately $22,000.
That means the 2021 VW ID.4 now has a trade-in value of about $15,400, while the trade-in value hovers around $11,800. KBB expects the downward trend to continue over the next three years, with ID.4 used car prices falling to around $12,800 and $10,800 in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Good enough for its time
Still, KBB data has proven that 88 percent of consumers would recommend the 2021 VW ID.4, and they’re not alone. Edmunds has given it a rating of 7.9 out of 10, which is enough to earn a Good score. Look, it’s a good attempt at a first all-new electric car, but its rivals are more attractive, offer more range and a better interior, all while being in the same price range.
Based on such feedback, VW updated the ID.4 in 2024, specifically the high-end Pro trim, giving it more power, more range and a more user-friendly infotainment screen. For 2026, VW has made the new 12.9-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, and all new ID.4s get a larger 82 kWh battery that delivers an EPA-estimated range of 200 to 300 miles, depending on trim and configuration.
The cheapest 2026 Volkswagen ID.4 starts at around $43,500, while the top-level ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus costs less than $56,000. Towing capacity is up to 2,200 pounds (RWD) or 2,700 pounds (AWD).
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