Volkswagen’s ID. Aura with LiDAR spied ahead of 2026 launch
Spy photos of FAW-Volkswagen‘s first model under its new ID. Aura new energy vehicle series has recently surfaced, revealing a mid-size pure electric SUV that marks Volkswagen’s first battery-powered SUV to feature LiDAR technology. This model was first unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show 2025 along with ID. Era and ID. Evo.
According to Autohome, the new vehicle is built on the CEA electronic and electrical architecture and is scheduled to make its debut in the first half of this year, with an official market launch planned for the second half of 2026.
According to the spy photos, the new model adopts a conventional SUV body structure with a closed-off front fascia design. It features split headlight units, with the upper LED daytime running lights expected to span the width of the vehicle in a continuous strip, while the lower main beam units utilize a square design. A LiDAR sensor is positioned on the roof.
The CEA architecture, jointly developed by Volkswagen and Xpeng, features an integrated design that reduces the number of electronic control units and simplifies wiring harness layout, thereby lowering overall vehicle complexity. The model will incorporate new intelligent technologies, advanced battery-electric systems, and Volkswagen’s latest design DNA, ushering in FAW-Volkswagen’s Smart Electric 2.0 era.
From the side profile, the vehicle displays a standard mid-size SUV body configuration with broad front and rear fender arches. It rides on Y-shaped five-spoke two-tone alloy wheels and features semi-recessed door handles that comply with the latest regulatory standards.
The ID. Aura’s first model will be equipped with a new high-end intelligent driver assistance system developed by Carizon, a joint venture between Volkswagen Group and Horizon Robotics. The system is built on Horizon’s HSD full-scenario driving assistance solution and integrates Volkswagen’s understanding of Chinese consumers and intelligent driving requirements. The vehicle is also expected to feature the popular blue intelligent driving indicator light module.
