2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Vs. 2024 Tesla Model Y Detailed Comparison
The electric vehicle market is growing rapidly, but – in our estimation – the top players in the game remain the VW ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y. These two all-electric powerhouses have taken innovation to the next level with creative new technology upgrades, enhanced driver assistance features, and the most comfortable cabins you can imagine. Yet the VW ID.4 takes the crown in this competition with its superior safety ratings, driver-centric technology, and complimentary charging offer.1
Settle in, buckle up, and get ready to roll with this all-inclusive, no-holds-barred review of the new VW ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y. After such a detailed examination of the luxurious space, specs, and seating of these two SUVs, you'll be gunning to get behind the wheel of a 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 at our Silver Spring dealership and take your new favorite trim for a test drive. On your mark, get set, let's go!
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Inventory
A Hot Take on a Hot Rivalry:
The VW ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y Debate
The Volkswagen name means “people's car,” and the engineers of the new VW ID.4 took this branding seriously. The 2024 ID.4 SUV is the epitome of a well-designed, people-centric vehicle that exudes this philosophy at every curve.
The ID.4 configurations are straightforward, its powertrain specs are forthright, and your purchase sends you home feeling well-equipped to start your electric vehicle lifestyle. From having accessible high-end features in every single trim to notable safety awards, the VW ID.4 is truly an ideal model that will serve you and your family well for many years to come.
True to Tesla form, the Tesla Model Y SUV is shrouded in mystery, making the build, purchase, and ownership of this sport-ute more frustrating than it ever needed to be. With unpublished horsepower and torque specs, complicated charging time intervals, and a long list of luxury features that are hidden behind very expensive paywalls, the Tesla Model Y has the potential to be a great SUV, but it unfortunately falls short.
Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y:
Engine, Specs & Performance
A lot of your drive time is spent slowing down and speeding up, so let's get down to brass tacks and discuss the VW ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y powertrain specs to see how these SUVs compare on the open road.
The Volkswagen ID.4 features a standard 62-kWh battery and rear-wheel drive. Its powertrain generates 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of instantly available torque. Meanwhile, the refreshed 2024 VW ID.4 for sale showcases powerful new capabilities. A high-performance 82-kWh battery harnesses the power of two electric motors to deliver an increased 282 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque in rear-wheel drive models.
All-wheel drive trims deliver an even higher 335 horsepower and 536 pound-feet of combined front and rear torque. This injection of extra muscle not only boasts a 4.9-second 0-60 time and increases the SUV's electric range, but it crowns the VW ID.4 as the most powerful and highest-torque Volkswagen EV model to date.
Equipped with a robust permanent-magnet rotor, an improved stator with maximum wire cross-section, and a new oil/water cooling system, your Volkswagen model can offer stunning performance. The motors are quite strategically positioned to maximize handling and traction, provide near-silent performance, and maintain well above 90% efficiency in almost every driving situation.
The VW ID.4 towing capacity gives every trim the strength to tow small trailers and outdoor gear, with all-wheel-drive models capable of pulling up to 2,700 pounds.2 Equally importantly, the Volkswagen ID.4 is the only fully electric foreign-made vehicle to gain Federal Tax Credit eligibility due to its local assembly.3
Try as it might to market the Tesla Model Y as a beast of an SUV with incredible powertrain specs, the automaker simply doesn't publish the horsepower or torque of the new Model Y. They do claim a 3.5-second 0-60 rate in their top-spec Model Y Performance model, but Tesla automakers specify that this is only with the first foot of rollout subtracted.
Take a spin through our powertrain specs to compare the Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y price and value you'll gain in each trim level, then scroll down for a closer look at cargo space and interior design!
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 |
2024 Tesla Model Y |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard & S | Pro & Pro S | AWD Pro & AWD Pro S | Trim | Model Y | Model Y Long Range | Model Y Performance |
| 201 | 282 | 335 | Horsepower | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
| 229 lb-ft | 402 lb-ft | 536 lb-ft | Torque | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
| 7.3 sec | 5.9 sec | 4.9 sec | 0-60 Rate | 6.6 sec | 4.8 sec | 3.5 sec |
| 2,200 lbs2 | 2,200 lbs2 | 2,700 lbs2 | Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs4 | 3,500 lbs4 | 3,500 lbs4 |
| RWD | RWD | AWD | Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD |
Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y
Cargo Space, Size & Dimensions
Let's continue this 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 vs. 2024 Tesla Model Y comparison by considering how these two SUVs would handle packing for a trip or parking in tight spaces.
The Volkswagen ID.4 fits seamlessly into the small crossover segment with a 180.5-inch body length and a 72.9-inch width. On top of its agile handling and nimble performance, the ID.4 SUV's size makes it ideal for commuting, garage parking, and city driving. The Tesla Model Y is considerably larger at 187 inches long, meaning you'll need to account for more than six additional inches of garage space when parking at home. The Model Y SUV is also 75.6 inches wide, eating up extra inches of garage space side-to-side.
The true test of any SUV's dimensions is how they translate to passenger volume. Inside the 2024 VW ID.4, front-seat passengers can stretch out with an identical 41.1 inches of headroom and legroom – a supremely balanced cabin experience! The Tesla SUV offers a very similar 41 inches of front headroom and 41.8 inches of front legroom, but you'll have a harder time fitting multiple car seats or kids in the backseat because its shoulder room is notably smaller than the VW ID.4.
Standard VW ID.4 and Tesla Model Y cargo space is quite similar: Easily pack the 30.3-cubic foot Volkswagen cargo hold with suitcases, kids' sports gear, or groceries, or use the 30.2 cubic feet available behind the second-row seats of the Tesla Model Y to prepare for the day.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 |
vs. |
2024 Tesla Model Y |
|---|---|---|
| 180.5 in | Exterior Length | 187 in |
| 72.9 in | Exterior Width | 75.6 in |
| 64.5-65.2 in | Exterior Height | 64 in |
| 4,308 lbs | Starting Curb Weight | 4,213 lbs |
| 30.3 cu ft | Cargo Capacity Behind 2nd Row | 26.6-30.2 cu ft |
| 64.2 cu ft | Cargo Capacity Behind 1st Row | 67.9-72.1 cu ft |
| 101.2 cu ft | Total Passenger Volume | Not Available |
| 41.1 in/41.1 in | Front Headroom/Legroom | 41 in/41.8 in |
Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y:
Interior & Features
The VW ID.4 seats five people, while the Tesla Model Y seats seven – in theory. Technically, the Model Y Long Range trim can transport up to seven passengers, but these additional seats will cost you extra, and the third row is extremely cramped. In reality, the best use of the Tesla Model Y is as a five-seat SUV.
Another critical aspect of SUV ownership is interior design and ambiance. The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 cabin is warm, inviting, and modern. The ID.4 Cockpit is intuitive, with a 12-inch navigation and infotainment touch screen at your fingertips. In contrast, the Tesla Model Y cabin is extremely minimal, so much so that you'll be overly reliant on the overbearing 15-inch center touch screen for simple tasks like accessing the vehicle's interior systems.
Soft, supple leatherette bolsters outfit the ID.4 Standard trim cabin, while V-Tex leatherette upholstery envelops the upper trims. Customize your ID.4 seats with multiple included color options like Nutmeg Brown or Stone Black with Chrome accents, enjoy the relaxing benefits of available massage functionality, and communicate with your vehicle via the automaker's signature ID. Light system that shines beneath your windscreen. You can even dictate your cabin's mood with a color-adjustable ambient lighting system.
Customized design takes a backseat in the Tesla Model Y. Though its cabin is furnished with leatherette, you're relegated to an included all-black interior – unless you want to pay extra for a black and white cabin. The Tesla company also likes to boast about its Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability systems, but these features will cost you thousands in add-ons.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S |
vs. |
2024 Tesla Model Y Performance AWD |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Passenger Seating | 5 |
| Standard | Glass Roof | Standard |
| Standard | Music Streaming | Available w/ Premium Package purchase |
| Standard | Navigation System | Standard |
| Standard | Wireless Charging | Standard |
| V-Tex Leatherette | Upholstery | Leatherette |
| Standard | Heated Front Seats | Standard |
| Standard | Heated Rear Seats | Standard |
| Standard | Heated Side Mirrors | Standard |
| 30-Color Adjustable | Ambient Lighting | Minimal |
| 12.9-in w/ Backlit Sliders | Center Touch Screen | 15-in |
Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y:
Battery, Range & Charging
The Volkswagen brand takes a thoughtful approach to electric vehicle charging. Your purchase or lease of a new VW ID.4 can include a home charger that plugs directly into an existing 120-volt outlet in your garage. You can also add an available 2-in-1 Mobile EV Charge Cable to your build for more flexible home charging on both 120-volt and 240-volt outlets.
For faster home charging, you can install a Level 2 Wallbox and boost the efficient 62-kWh battery of the Volkswagen ID.4 Standard and S trims from 0-100% in six hours and 15 minutes5 – making it easy to get your SUV ready to go each morning. The 2024 model year introduces a larger 82-kWh battery pack for the other ID.4 trims, which can power up to 100% on a Level 2 charger in eight hours.
When you're out and about and need to recharge, the VW ID.4 trims can plug into a public DC fast-charger and gain 80% battery in only 28 or 29 minutes.5 To use a public charging station, simply open your Electrify America app, plug in your VW ID.4 at an Electrify America station, and begin charging! As an added incentive, the first three years of charging at these stations come free.1
Now that we've covered the ease of Volkswagen charging, let's look at the Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y electric range specs. If you prefer an ID.4 AWD Pro or AWD Pro S trim, you can travel an EPA-estimated 263 miles6 on a full battery. The top electric range can be found in a rear-wheel drive ID.4 Pro or Pro S, which delivers an EPA-estimated 291 miles.7
In comparison, the 2024 Tesla Model Y RWD option can drive an EPA-estimated 242-260 miles8 per full charge, depending on wheel selection and other factors. The Model Y Long Range trim can go up to an EPA-estimated 292-310 miles.8 The Model Y Performance edition can travel an EPA-estimated 279 miles.8 Unfortunately, your purchase or lease of a new Tesla Model Y leaves you without any way to charge your vehicle and enjoy this electric range. You'll have to purchase a Level 1, Level 2, or mobile charger in addition to your SUV build.
The Tesla brand also doesn't measure its charging capacities like all other electric vehicle manufacturers, so comparing charging times is difficult. The Model Y claims to add 44 miles per hour5 to your SUV's battery when charging on a Level 2 charger, but until the Tesla brand decides to disclose its vehicle's battery size, we really can't speculate how much longer or shorter a charge time the Model Y will have. In addition, this number likely describes peak charging efficiency. EV charging tends to be slower once the vehicle's battery has reached a certain fullness level.
The Tesla Model Y is preferentially charged at Tesla Supercharging stations. While other DC stations are working to integrate Tesla plug-in options, they are not prevalent everywhere, so you should confirm this before going out of your way for a top up. Your Tesla is also likely to be slower to charge at a regular DC fast charging station compared to their own Supercharging locations. Planning for long road trips around these Supercharging stations can be much more complex than you would desire.
Volkswagen automakers also care about the long-term reliability of your electric vehicle, which is evident in their warranties and coverage programs. While the VW ID.4 and the Tesla Model Y warranties cover four years or 50,000 miles9,10 under their Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty programs, only the Volkswagen company gives you two years or 20,000 miles of Scheduled Carefree Maintenance11 with 24/7 roadside assistance11 to help ensure you drive safely for as long as possible.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 |
2024 Tesla Model Y |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard & S | Pro & Pro S | AWD Pro & AWD Pro S | Trim | Model Y | Model Y Long Range | Model Y Performance |
| 206 mi12 | 291 mi7 | 263 mi6 | Electric Range | 260 mi8 | 310 mi8 | 279 mi8 |
| 62 kWh | 82 kWh | 82 kWh | Standard Battery | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
| 6 hr 15 min (0-100%)5 | 8 hr (0-100%)5 | 8 hr (0-100%)5 | Level 2 Charging Time | 44 mi/hr5 | 44 mi/hr5 | 44 mi/hr5 |
| 29 min5 | 28 min5 | 28 min5 | DC Fast-Charging Time (10-80%) | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
| Yes | Yes | Yes | Complimentary Charging Included w/ Purchase | No | No | No |
| 4-yr/50,000-mi9 | 4-yr/50,000-mi9 | 4-yr/50,000-mi9 | Basic Vehicle Warranty | 4-yr/50,000-mi10 | 4-yr/50,000-mi10 | 4-yr/50,000-mi10 |
| 2-yr/20,000-mi11 | 2-yr/20,000-mi11 | 2-yr/20,000-mi11 | Carefree Maintenance Coverage | Not Available | Not Available | Not Available |
Volkswagen ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y
Safety & Reliability
To maximize driver confidence and occupant safety, every new VW ID.4 trim is fitted with IQ.DRIVE, plus a mixture of hands-on and semi-automated capabilities like Rear Traffic Alert, Active Side Assist, Emergency Assist, and a Lane Keeping System. These features work in tandem to help simplify every drive. Every 2024 VW ID.4 also features a suite of passive and active safety systems like an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and an Intelligent Crash Response System.
Not ever content to rest on their laurels, Volkswagen engineers upped their game even more by introducing an ID. Light system in every VW ID.4 trim. The ID. Light is a digital assistant in the form of a stylish light bar. Located just beneath the windshield, ID. Light uses different colored light pulses to signal navigational turns (blue), voice command replies (white), incoming phone calls (green), and emergency stops (bright red). Visit our VW dealer near Washington, D.C., to explore the ID. Light in person and see how this next-gen optimal alert system can enhance your driving confidence and safety.
Aside from its long list of internal driver assistance and safety systems, the new Volkswagen ID.4 is also the proud winner of multiple safety awards. If you're in the market for a reliable SUV, The VW ID.4 received the 2024 MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award for Best EV13 and earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.14
The internal safety systems of the Tesla Model Y are not confidence-inspiring. The automaker leans heavily on its tech-forward Full Self-Driving Capability system, yet it holds the record for the highest accident rate of any auto brand.15 More specifically, Tesla automobiles were found to be involved in 23.54 accidents per 1,000 drivers.16 While this study did not determine the causes of these collisions, it should also be noted that the Tesla brand recently recalled more than two million U.S.-sold vehicles because of a driver-assistance system malfunction.
All in all, we recommend the stellar safety systems and awards record of the new VW ID.4 when you're looking for the safest way to transport your family. Take a look at this safety chart breakdown to see if you agree.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 |
vs. |
2024 Tesla Model Y |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Stars14 | NHTSA Overall Safety Rating, AWD | 5 Stars17 |
| 5 Stars14 | NHTSA Overall Safety Rating, RWD | Not Rated - 5 Complaints17 |
| ID. Light
IQ Drive Active Blind Spot Monitor Front & Emergency Assist Automatic Post-Collision Braking system |
Standard Safety Features | Sentry Mode
Blind Spot Monitoring Front & Side Collision Warning Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance Cabin Overheat Protection |
2024 Tesla Model Y vs. 2024 Volkswagen ID.4
Pros & Cons
We truly hope this 2024 Tesla Model Y vs. 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 comparison has been helpful and that you now feel equipped to make the best decision for you and your family. Here's a brief pro and con list, recapping what we've learned about the Volkswagen ID.4 so far.
Volkswagen ID.4 Pros:
- Enhanced safety systems in every trim
- Inclusive, high-end features at no additional cost
- Complimentary public charging for three years included with purchase1
Volkswagen ID.4 Cons:
- Slightly smaller max cargo volume
- No seven-seat option
Elevate Your Future in a 2024 Volkswagen ID.4
Though we are a proud Volkswagen dealership, that's not why we prefer the VW ID.4 to the Tesla Model Y. As evidenced multiple times throughout this VW ID.4 vs. Tesla Model Y comparison guide, there are many reasons to favor the Volkswagen SUV and its reliability, value, and luxurious amenities. If you're ready to lease a Volkswagen ID.4, we're available to help you save as much as possible on this innovative electric crossover. Visit DARCARS Volkswagen of Silver Spring today to start your EV journey!
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Inventory
Frequently Asked Questions
One of the biggest differences between the Tesla Model Y and the VW ID.4 is their size. The Volkswagen model is built to be a compact SUV that is easy to park while still providing you with a lot of space to stretch out in its cabin. The Tesla Model Y is a larger vehicle that can have up to three rows of seats.
The Tesla Model Y is six and a half inches longer and also wider than the VW ID.4, making it potentially more difficult to park. The SUVs have nearly identical front headroom and legroom. The ID.4 SUV also has more backseat shoulder room, which is important when trying to fit multiple car seats or kids across the second-row bench.
The VW ID.4 has advanced standard features, technology, and safety equipment while maintaining a lower starting MSRP than the Tesla Model Y. The top-spec VW ID.4 AWD Pro S trim and the top-level Tesla Model Y Performance trim have near-identical MSRPs, but remember that you'll need to pay much more for add-on Tesla features to get the truly luxurious experience you might crave.
The Volkswagen ID.4 can charge at any public charging station and any Tesla Supercharging station that has a Magic Dock Connector. The number of Tesla Supercharging stations with this perk is growing. However, utilizing Electrify America charging stations preferentially can save you time via the Plug&Charge program. You get three years of access to this program with the Electrify America+ membership1 that comes with your new vehicle.
13 years of included 30-minute charging sessions on MY23 ID.4 vehicles begins upon vehicle purchase. Non-transferable. Not available for commercial use, such as ridesharing. Requires Electrify America mobile app, account, enrollment in 2023 ID.4 Charging Plan, acceptance of Plan Disclosure, and $10 deposit to pre-fund Idle Fees and charging after 30 minutes. User is responsible for Idle Fees, which apply beginning 10 minutes after charge session stops or vehicle reaches full charge. After the initial 30 minutes of each applicable session, charging continues uninterrupted at then-current Electrify America Pass pricing. There is a 60-minute wait-period between charging sessions in which you receive the 30 minutes of charging under this promotion. In the event of suspected fraud or abuse or other unforeseen events, Volkswagen of America may discontinue or modify the offer in its sole discretion. Frequent and consecutive charging can permanently decrease battery capacity, which may not be covered by your vehicle’s warranty.
2Maximum tow rating when equipped with 2024 ID.4 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.
3At the time of writing. Incentives are subject to change without notice and are intended for informational purposes only. Please note that this is not tax advice. Consult with your tax adviser for further details and to determine eligibility.
4When properly equipped with optional Towing Package. Required accessories for towing vary by model. See Owner's Manual for details.
5Charging times may vary and are influenced by several factors, including but not limited to outdoor temperature, battery temperature, charging equipment, battery condition, and the overall condition of the vehicle. For precise information on charging times for a specific vehicle model, please contact our dealership.
62024 VW ID.4 AWD Pro and AWD Pro S EPA-estimated total range is 263 miles. Actual mileage and range will vary and depend on several factors including driving and charging habits, accessory use, temperature and topography, battery age, load, and vehicle condition. Battery capacity decreases with time and use. See owner's manual for details.
72024 VW ID.4 Pro and Pro S EPA-estimated total range is 291 miles. Actual mileage and range will vary and depend on several factors including driving and charging habits, accessory use, temperature and topography, battery age, load, and vehicle condition. Battery capacity decreases with time and use. See owner's manual for details.
8Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
94 years/50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty on all new MY24 vehicles. See owner's literature or dealer for warranty exclusions and limitations.
10Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
11Carefree Coverage available on all new MY24 vehicles. For vehicle eligibility details, visit vw.com/coverage. VW's Carefree Maintenance Program provides 10,000- and 20,000-mile scheduled maintenance services or scheduled maintenance services for two years (whichever occurs first) as stated in the vehicle's maintenance booklet. Does not include tire rotations, or other services or parts not specified in the owner's literature. 3 years/36,000 miles (whichever occurs first) Roadside Assistance provided by a third party. 4 years/50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty. See owner's literature or dealer for warranty, maintenance program, and roadside assistance details, exclusions, and limitations. Car-Net Remote Access services require cellular connectivity, GPS signal, and acceptance of Terms of Service. Not all Car-Net services and features are available on all vehicles. Other Car-Net services require a trial or paid subscription. See additional important information at carnet.vw.com.
122024 VW ID.4 Standard and S EPA-estimated total range is 206 miles. Actual mileage and range will vary and depend on several factors including driving and charging habits, accessory use, temperature and topography, battery age, load, and vehicle condition. Battery capacity decreases with time and use. See owner's manual for details.
13Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit: https://motorweek.org/drivers-choice-awards/2024-drivers-choice-awards/
14Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/VOLKSWAGEN/ID.4/SUV/RWD and https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/VOLKSWAGEN/ID.4/SUV/AWD
15This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit:https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevebanker/2023/12/18/tesla-has-the-highest-accident-rate-of-any-auto-brand/?sh=77f846132894
16This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.lendingtree.com/insurance/brand-incidents-study/
17Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/TESLA/MODEL%252520Y%252520(All%252520Variants)/SUV/AWD and https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2024/TESLA/MODEL%252520Y