ID.Cross compact SUV is kinda like an electric T-Cross.

ELECTRIC from Volkswagen has downsized, with unveiling of its compact battery-wed sports utility, the ID.Cross.

A sister model to the already announced and potentially New Zealand-bound Cupra Raval and Skoda Epiq, this latest model on the Volkswagen Group MEB Plus electric platform is designed to be practical and affordable.

Think of it as an electric alternative to the VW T-Cross.

In Europe there’s a choice of three power outputs and two different batteries, with all versions being front-wheel drive.

At the lower end of the lineup is an LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery of 37kWh net usable capacity, paired with either a 86kW or a 100kW electric motor. It can be DC charged at up to 90kW and manages up to 316 kilometres on the WLTP cycle.

The 52kWh alternative uses NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) chemistry and can be charged at up to 105kW. It gives the ID. Cross a range of up to 436km and is paired with a 157kW electric motor.

The model having 3.6kW vehicle to load recharging capability is also reason why it includes a lug-in tow hitch. A maximum load of 75kg and lack of wiring rules it out for trailers but that’s intentional. VW envisages it being used as a carrier for electric bikes, which it can charge.

The boot itself measures a useful 475 litres, including a large underfloor section. This is supplemented by a small 25-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet up front.

The car ditches Volkswagen's previous obsession with touch-sensitive controls and removal of physical buttons.

There are individual buttons on the driver's door for each electric window, for example, along with physical switchgear for the climate control and on the steering wheel.

Also offered as an option is ability to have a retro look for the instruments and touchscreen. The former is a 10.25-inch digital screen, while there's a 12.9-inch infotainment display in the middle of the dash.