VW ID. Cross Concept: the compact EV that brings back buttons and Volkswagen’s true essence

Friendly design, physical controls and sustainable materials — Volkswagen’s electric prototype hints at the brand’s future, and it will be built in Spain.

A nod to the past to reconnect with the future

The new Volkswagen ID. Cross Concept, unveiled at the Munich Motor Show, is more than just another electric prototype — it’s a strategic blueprint for Volkswagen’s path forward in the face of rising competition from new Asian brands. While still in concept form, 80 to 90% of its design is already finalized, and it will enter production in 2026 at the Landaben plant in Navarra, Spain. It will be part of a broader “Made in Spain” EV offensive, alongside the CUPRA Raval, Skoda Epiq, and the future ID. Polo and ID. Polo GTI. As VW’s Head of Design Andy Mindt put it: “We’re bringing back the ‘secret sauce’ that made Volkswagen great.”

Interior: a living room on wheels with logic and simplicity

Unlike earlier models in the ID. range, the ID. Cross Concept focuses on functionality and intuitive design. Gone are the touch-sensitive controls and over-reliance on screens — physical buttons are back, neatly integrated into the steering wheel, dashboard, and door panels, including all four window switches on the driver’s side. The interior is designed to feel like a spacious, comfortable lounge, using sustainable and recycled materials without sacrificing style. This combination of comfort, smart technology, and eco-consciousness is central to Volkswagen’s renewed design philosophy.

A design that smiles: more approachable, more Volkswagen

On the outside, the ID. Cross Concept brings back VW’s signature charm and recognisability, drawing inspiration from icons like the Golf and the classic VW bus. Mindt’s goal was clear: “A Volkswagen must be friendly, unmistakable, and full of character.” The result is a cheerful front end, compact proportions, and a look designed to evoke emotion — not just appear futuristic. As competitors push increasingly cold and minimalist designs, Volkswagen aims to reconnect with its audience through its legacy, while fully embracing electrification.

Standardised controls: easier for drivers, smarter for the brand

A major innovation in the ID. Cross Concept is unified physical controls across all future Volkswagen models. This not only simplifies the user experience, allowing drivers to feel instantly at home in any VW, but also helps the brand reduce production and development costs. As Mindt explains: “All controls will be the same in future models. That makes things easier for the user and more efficient for us.” It’s a practical, efficient approach that fits perfectly with the Volkswagen Group’s long-term strategy to stay competitive in the global EV market.