The Volkswagen ID X Performance concept has been unveiled, giving us a glimpse into the future of Volkswagen’s performance models. With a staggering 558bhp, this electric sports saloon is the most powerful Volkswagen to date and showcases the brand’s commitment to electric performance.

Previewed at the annual Volkswagen ID Driver’s Club meeting in Switzerland, the ID X Performance follows in the footsteps of the recently revealed ID GTI concept, solidifying Volkswagen’s intentions to produce electric sports cars. Interestingly, it shares the same ‘X’ moniker as a previous four-wheel-drive performance version of the Volkswagen ID 3, which was quietly unveiled last year.

Andreas Reckewerth, Volkswagen’s head of technology for the platform, expressed his excitement about the possibilities offered by the MEB platform. He stated, “The MEB platform offers many fantastic possibilities for approaching vehicle development with a great deal of creativity. It was clear to us that we wanted to base our new show car on the ID 7 and that we would focus on enhancing the performance. In this way, we can show what is possible.”

While Volkswagen has not confirmed how closely the ID X concept aligns with the upcoming ID 7 GTX, it is speculated that the production model will combine the base model’s 282bhp and 402lb ft rear motor with the ID 4 GTX’s 107bhp front motor, resulting in a combined output of approximately 390bhp. This suggests that a future ‘ID 7 R’ could draw inspiration from the ID X Performance concept, as Volkswagen has already confirmed an electric future for its top-performance sub-brand.

Visually, the ID X Performance stands out from the standard ID 7 with its carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, lowered suspension by 60mm, and 20-inch alloys fitted with 265-section track tires. The overall look is completed with tinted rear lights and a sleek matte grey paint scheme.

Under the hood, the ID X Performance boasts two motors, one on each axle, delivering a total output of 558bhp. While this falls short of the most powerful Mercedes-AMG EQE 53, it surpasses the BMW i4 M50 by 22bhp. Additionally, the ID X Performance features a boost function that provides a temporary power increase, similar to the AMG model. Although specific performance figures have not been disclosed, it is expected that the 4WD ID 7 will accelerate from 0-62mph in under 4.0 seconds, putting it in direct competition with the Tesla Model 3 Performance.

Inside, the ID X Performance showcases its performance credentials with red accents on the steering wheel and dashboard, carbon bucket seats, and Alcantara trim on the top of the dashboard and door cards. The car retains Volkswagen’s new 15.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, which operates the latest version of the brand’s MIB infotainment software.

While the range of the ID X Performance is expected to be slightly lower than the ID 7’s impressive 435 miles (assuming it uses the same 86kWh battery), Volkswagen assures us that it will still be capable of fast charging at a rate of 200kW.

The Volkswagen ID X Performance concept is an exciting glimpse into the future of electric performance vehicles. With its impressive power output, striking design, and advanced technology, it showcases Volkswagen’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility. As Volkswagen continues to expand its electric lineup, we can expect to see more high-performance models that combine sustainability with exhilarating driving experiences.