Vw id.4 vs tesla model y

Dec 19, 2021 at 9:19am ET

When it comes to electric crossovers, the best-selling Tesla Model Y is the default option for many. However, a number of price hikes over the past few months means Tesla's crossover now starts at a hefty $58,990. In comparison, the equally practical Volkswagen ID.4 can cost as little as $32,495 after the Federal Tax Credit (which Tesla no longer qualifies for). Yes, the Model Y is faster than the ID.4 - but for a family crossover does that really matter? Equally, the Model Y has better tech, autonomy and charging infrastructure. All in all, is the Model Y worth the extra $20,000? YouTuber Gjeebs decided to find out.  

Gjeebs started off by mentioning charging infrastructure. He noted Tesla's Supercharger network is superior to VW's Electrify America, but for a lot of people charging infrastructure isn't a major deal. After all, the vast majority of charging is done at home overnight and only on roadtrips does charging infrastructure really play a role - and even then the Electrify America network should be sufficient for most journeys. 

He then discussed the models picked. The Volkswagen ID.4 selected is the Pro S, which features an 82 kWh battery pack. The Pro S currently starts at $44,495 with an effective price of $36,995 after the FTC has been applied. It's compared with a $58,990 Tesla Model Y Long Range. Both vehicles have similar range and AWD.

In terms of exterior looks, personally Gjeebs preferred the sloped look of the Model Y versus the more traditional ID.4. Inside he praised the seat materials and openness of the ID.4. Overall, he found the Volkswagen to be comfortable and spacious. However, the one thing he wasn't a fan of was the piano black littered throughout the ID.4's interior. He found the infotainment to be clear, quick and responsive - VW has released several OTA updates in the past few months, and the notorious software problems reported several months ago are now gone. He also praised the instrument cluster in front of the driver, something the Model Y is of course lacking. 

As for the Model Y, he found the front seats marginally more comfortable than the ID.4's (which he noted were still great) but the backs seats worse. The Model Y interior is simplistic and basic, which Gjeebs personally likes but noted may not be for everyone. 

From a driving perspective, he felt the ID.4 had better ride quality than the Model Y. However handling and performance is of course supreme in the Y. Gjeebs was seriously impressed by the ID.4's turning radius and it's soft suspension. In terms of autonomy, the Model Y remains ahead. 

In conclusion, Gjeebs reckoned both are great crossovers but personally he would go for the Model Y. Why? Because of its performance and looks.

Which would you pick? Do you think the Model Y is worth the extra $20,000 over the ID.4? Let us know in the comments below.

More Comparisons

Vw id.4 vs tesla model y

Have you been comparing the Tesla Model Y vs. Volkswagen ID.4 but still can't make a decision? Don't worry; plenty of buyers who want to go all-electric have this issue. Both vehicles seem like great choices on paper, but one has to come out on top.

These SUVs can be pretty similar in their features, design, and performance, but there are also plenty of differences when you take a closer look. Here are the facts you need to know about each one to make an informed decision.

Tesla Model Y Vs. Volkswagen ID.4 Features

These two models are jam-packed with features that are sure to make your head spin. Fortunately, they are more straightforward than they may seem at first glance.

They share features such as a panoramic glass roof (if you upgrade to the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S), wireless charging, USB charging ports throughout the vehicle, heated seats, and a touchscreen interface. However, with VW, you also receive Car-Net® so you can control features and monitor your car from your phone.

When comparing the Tesla Model Y vs. Volkswagen ID.4, you might notice that Tesla's touchscreen is bigger, but this doesn't necessarily mean that it is better.

For example, both vehicles allow you to control the temperature of your car. Although, many consumers have found the physical buttons in the new VW ID.4 for sale to be easier to use than the Tesla Model Y's tech-centered interface.

Vw id.4 vs tesla model y
2021 VW ID.4 RWD Pro
Vw id.4 vs tesla model y
2021 VW ID.4 RWD Pro S
Vw id.4 vs tesla model y
2021 VW ID.4 AWD Pro
Vw id.4 vs tesla model y
2021 VW ID.4 AWD Pro S
Vw id.4 vs tesla model y
Tesla Model Y Long Range
Vw id.4 vs tesla model y
Tesla Model Y Performance
Starting MSRP$39,995 MSRP.4 $44,495 MSRP.4 $43,675 MSRP.4 $48,175 MSRP.4 $53,990 MSRP.3 $60,990 MSRP.3
Range (EPA-Estimated)260 miles1 250 miles2 249 miles5 240 miles6 326 miles 303 miles
Wheelbase108.7 inches 108.7 inches 108.7 inches 108.7 inches 113.8 inches 113.8 inches
Max Towing Capacity2,200 lbs7 2,200 lbs7 2,700 lbs7 2,700 lbs7 3,500 lbs 3,500 lbs
Max Cargo Capacity64.2 cu. ft. 64.2 cu. ft. 64.2 cu. ft. 64.2 cu. ft. 76 cu. ft. 76 cu. ft.
Length180.5 inches 180.5 inches 180.5 inches 180.5 inches 187 inches 187 inches
Width72.9 inches 72.9 inches 72.9 inches 72.9 inches 76 inches 76 inches
Height64.6 inches 64.6 inches 64.6 inches 64.6 inches 63.9 inches 63.9 inches
Front Leg Room41.1 inches 41.1 inches 41.1 inches 41.1 inches 41.8 inches 41.8 inches
Second Leg Room37.6 inches 37.6 inches 37.6 inches 37.6 inches 40.5 inches 40.5 inches
Adaptive Cruise ControlStandard Standard Standard Standard Available Available
Lane Keeping AssistStandard Standard Standard Standard Available Available
Blind-Spot MonitoringStandard Standard Standard Standard Available Available
Rear Parking AssistStandard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
SUV Warranty4 yrs/50,000 mi basic, 4 yrs/50,000 mi powertrain 4 yrs/50,000 mi basic, 4 yrs/50,000 mi powertrain 4 yrs/50,000 mi basic, 4 yrs/50,000 mi powertrain 4 yrs/50,000 mi basic, 4 yrs/50,000 mi powertrain 4 yrs/50,000 mi basic, 8 yrs/120,000 mi powertrain 4 yrs/50,000 mi basic, 8 yrs/120,000 mi powertrain

Tesla Model Y Vs. Volkswagen ID.4 Interior

The interiors of the Tesla Model Y vs. Volkswagen ID.4 are very different, especially when it comes to the seating fabric. Tesla has custom-engineered a specialty vegan seating that is supposedly great at resisting stains and maximizes comfort.

However, this comes down strictly to your personal preference, as some drivers strongly dislike the feel of this fabric. The VW ID.4, on the other hand, gives you a choice between more traditional options such as cloth or V-Tex leatherette seating and even includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Tesla Model Y Vs. Volkswagen ID.4 Dimensions

When you drive a new vehicle, you can instantly feel the difference in size from your daily driver. Some like the idea of being the biggest car on the road, while others prefer more compact rides.

The Tesla Model Y is noticeably larger at 187-inches long and 75.6-inches wide, compared to the Volkswagen ID.4 that is 180.5-inches long and 72.9-inches wide. Part of this is because you can upgrade to a Tesla Model Y 7-seater, while the Volkswagen ID.4 has five seats as the only available option.

A few of the other dimensions for the models with five seats you might be interested in are as follows (Tesla Model Y/VW ID.4):

  • Wheelbase (inches): 113.8/108.9
  • Height (in.): 63.9/64.6
  • Front Leg Room (in.): 41.8/41.1
  • Second Leg Room (in.): 40.5/37.6
  • Cargo Volume to Seat 1 (cu. ft.): 76/64.2

Tesla Model Y Vs. Volkswagen ID.4 Performance

No one wants to drive an electric car that is slow out the gate, which is why understanding their performance is so crucial to the buying process. These models both feature All-Wheel Drive (although Rear-Wheel Drive is an option with the Volkswagen ID.4), but the focus is on their handling and the driver experience.

The Tesla Model Y has dual motors that make it a sportier drive with quick acceleration, but the stiffer suspension can make it a rougher ride. The Volkswagen ID.4, on the other hand, is gentler and won't throw you back in your seat, but it isn't so slow that it is difficult to reach higher speeds.

You also have various drive modes with the VW ID.4 (including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Custom) that make it adaptable to different driving situations. It allows you to choose between an athletic feel, similar to the Tesla Model Y, or something more laid back for a nice drive through the countryside.

Tesla Model Y Vs. Volkswagen ID.4 Range

One of the biggest questions customers often ask is how far these SUVs can take them on a single charge. When looking at the Tesla Model Y vs. Volkswagen ID.4, you will notice that the Tesla will take you further, but the VW charges faster.

Here are the advertised ranges, but remember, they will change based on your driving patterns and other factors:

  • Tesla Model Y Long Range: EPA-estimated 326 miles.
  • Tesla Model Y Performance: EPA-estimated 303 miles.
  • VW ID.4 Pro RWD: EPA-estimated1 260 miles.
  • VW ID.4 Pro S RWD: EPA-estimated2 250 miles.
  • VW ID.4 Pro AWD: EPA-estimated5 249 miles.
  • VW ID.4 Pro S AWD: EPA-estimated6 240 miles.

The Tesla Model Y can take you further, but the range of the VW ID.4 can transport most people to work and home for about a week. The one major difference is that you can fully charge the VW ID.4 on a 120-volt charging port overnight, while the Tesla Model Y will take days to regain its full range with this method.

Tesla Model Y Vs. Volkswagen ID.4 Price

If you were leaning toward a Tesla Model Y, the price alone could change your mind. It is about $10,000 more expensive than the Volkswagen ID.4, which is more than most are willing to pay.

Here are the starting price points for each of the vehicles:

  • Tesla Model Y Long Range: $53,990 MSRP.3
  • Tesla Model Y Performance: $60,990 MSRP.3
  • VW ID.4 Pro RWD: $39,995 MSRP.4
  • VW ID.4 Pro S RWD: $44,495 MSRP.4
  • VW ID.4 Pro AWD: $43,675 MSRP.4
  • VW ID.4 Pro S AWD: $48,175 MSRP.4

You should also keep in mind that while the Tesla Model Y might have a higher range and potentially more luxury features, many of them are add-ons that you will have to pay extra for in your final price. While it may look like a steal for a Tesla, you need to remember if they happened to be part of the selling point in your decision.

A few of these add-ons and their prices include:

  • Seven Seats (+$3,000)
  • Tow Package (+$1,000)
  • Autopilot (+$10,000)
  • 20-inch Induction Wheels (+$2,000)
  • Black and White Interior (+$1,000)

Reserve Your Volkswagen ID.4 Today

Have you decided that the Volkswagen ID.4 is the SUV for you? If so, stop by O'Steen Volkswagen, a Volkswagen dealer in Jacksonville.

We can help you reserve your new VW ID.4 or explore other options within this family of vehicles. Our associates here at our dealership are ready to walk you through the buying process when you decide it's time to buy your next Volkswagen vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a few more questions regarding the comparison between the Tesla Model Y vs. Volkswagen ID.4? Keep reading to learn the answers to your most pressing inquiries.

Is the Volkswagen ID.4 a good car?

There is no strict yes or no answer to whether or not the Volkswagen ID.4 is a good car. It has pros and cons, just like any vehicle, and it is up to you to decide if it is the car for you. That being said, we think it's a good car.

A few of the pros include a roomy cabin where you can comfortably stretch your legs, a smooth ride that every driver will enjoy, and enough range to get you where you need to go.

The features this SUV could improve on are a more exciting driving experience, less indistinct styling, and a user-friendly interface.

The final verdict is that it is a practical alternative if you have had enough of gas-powered SUVs, but — although a good car — it lacks some of the excitement that other EVs are offering. If this model isn't enough, there are plenty of other new Volkswagen cars for sale that will fit the bill.

Is the ID.4 an SUV?

The ID.4 is not only an SUV, but it is breaking ground by being an affordable, all-electric alternative to similar gas-powered vehicles. It is equipped with All-Wheel Drive and impresses drivers with its incredible traction on various forms of terrain.

How much does the Tesla Model Y cost?

There are two versions of the Tesla Model Y available for purchase. The first is the Tesla Model Y Long Range, and it will run you $51,990 starting MSRP,3 while the Tesla Model Y Performance will cost you $60,990 starting MSRP.3 It isn't the most affordable option, but some other all-electric SUVs are more expensive than these models.

How long is the wait for the Tesla Model Y?

You can expect new orders for the Tesla Model Y Performance to be about seven to nine weeks, which will put its delivery sometime in October. However, the Long Range models are a different story. They will not deliver them until November, which could be a deal-breaker if you need a car sooner.

You can always look at the Volkswagen ID.4 as they will be delivered between October and December for All-Wheel Drive versions, while the Rear-Wheel Drive options will be here even sooner.


1260 miles (2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric Motor RWD). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

2250 miles (2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric Motor RWD). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

3All prices specified are recommended retail prices. Prices are current at the time of publication and subject to change without notice. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment.

4All prices shown are the U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price ("MSRP") and do not include extra costs, such as, but not limited to, taxes, dealer charges, registration, and transportation. For specific product availability and program information, please visit your local authorized Volkswagen dealer.

5249 miles (2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric Motor AWD). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

6240 miles (2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric Motor AWD). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

7Maximum tow rating when equipped with electric engine and factory-installed towing hitch. Vehicle load, other accessories, and options may reduce maximum towing capacity. See vehicle Owner’s Manual for details.

O'Steen Volkswagen - Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Is id4 bigger than Model Y?

The Tesla Model Y is noticeably larger at 187-inches long and 75.6-inches wide, compared to the Volkswagen ID. 4 that is 180.5-inches long and 72.9-inches wide. Part of this is because you can upgrade to a Tesla Model Y 7-seater, while the Volkswagen ID. 4 has five seats as the only available option.

Is the Volkswagen ID 4 fully electric?

The 2022 Volkswagen ID. 4 is an all-electric SUV that offers a balanced ride and adult-friendly seating, but some of its infotainment and cabin controls are very unintuitive.

How long will it take to get an id4?

Mark Gilles, a product and technology communications senior manager at VW of America, told Newsweek that the average wait time for an ID. 4 is four months. Normally, when a car reaches port, it's put on a truck or train and transported to a dealership shortly afterward.

What is the range of a VW ID 4?

The ID. 4's estimated range varies from 208 miles in the Standard and S to an EPA-rated 275 miles in RWD Pro variants and 255 miles in AWD models. While the new Standard trim brings a lower starting price than the outgoing model, all Pro and Pro S models see price increases between $1,265 (Pro) and $1,885 (Pro S AWD).