VW ID.4 vs. Tesla Model 3

The Volkswagen ID.4 and Tesla Model 3 are two of the most sought-after electric vehicles on the market. They’re both impressive vehicles that deliver a strong performance, an extensive driving range, exceptional ride comfort, and generous feature content. However, depending on your budget and driving needs, one of them may suit you better than the other. Discover how the Volkswagen ID.4 compares with the Tesla Model 3 in this department-by-department comparison.

Pricing

If you want to save money on your electric car purchase, the Volkswagen ID.4 is the better option. This Volkswagen SUV comes in five trim levels to meet the needs and preferences of different drivers: the Standard, Pro, AWD Pro, S, Pro S, and range-topping AWD Pro S. The entry-level trim has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $37,495, whereas the highest trim has a starting price of $53,745. The ID.4 isn’t only competitively priced, but it also qualifies you for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500.

Although it’s a sedan, the Tesla Model 3 comes with a much higher price tag than the Volkswagen. Available in Standard Range Plus, Long Range, and Performance trims, it comes with a starting price tag of $47,690. If you choose the Performance model, be prepared to spend at least $64,190. For the 2023 model year, only the base trim of the Model 3 is eligible for a federal tax incentive.

Performance

Whether you decide to buy the Volkswagen ID.4 or Tesla Model 3, you’ll have a dynamic vehicle that will feel powerful in almost any situation. The rear-wheel-drive ID.4 is equipped with a single electric motor and an 82 kWh battery that combine to generate 201 horsepower. If you choose an all-wheel-drive model, you’ll get two electric motors and the same 82 kWh battery for a total output of 295 horsepower. This variant offers noticeably quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.

The Tesla Model 3, on the other hand, offers three engine options. The Standard Range Plus uses a single motor, rear-wheel drive, and a 54 kWh battery, while the other two models work with two motors, all-wheel drive, and an 82 kWh battery. The Performance trim is one of the fastest luxury electric cars on the market.

When it comes to handling, the Volkswagen ID.4 strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. The crossover has a compliant suspension that helps it easily absorb uneven surfaces. It also feels well-planted at high speeds and along winding roads, thanks to its low center of gravity. Although it’s fun to drive, the Tesla Model 3 may sometimes feel unsettled when moving over broken pavement.

Driving Range

The driving range of the Volkswagen ID.4 varies depending on which battery pack you choose. Models equipped with the standard battery can travel 208 miles on a full charge, whereas those that use the larger battery deliver a range of 255 to 275 miles. The Tesla Model 3 trim that can cover the longest distance is the Long Range, which is rated for 353 miles. However, opting for the base trim reduces the maximum range to only 263 miles, shorter than the top-spec ID.4.

Interior

The Volkswagen ID.4 and Tesla Model 3 both have modern and well-built interiors. They come packed with top-notch materials, soft-touch surfaces, and aesthetically pleasing accents, giving them a premium feel.

However, as an SUV, the ID.4 boasts a significantly larger cabin than the Model 3. Its open and airy environment contributes to excellent outward visibility and a relaxing ride. Wherever you choose to sit in this crossover, you’ll have enough space to stretch out. Even tall adults will feel comfortable in the rear seats. The Tesla has roomy front seats, but its back row is best left for small adults or children.

Cargo Capacity

If you enjoy going on road trips or outdoor adventures with your family, you’ll appreciate the expansive cargo hold that the Volkswagen ID.4 offers. This SUV gives you 30.3 cubic feet of storage space with the back seats upright and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Since it’s a sedan, the Tesla Model 3 has only a small trunk measuring just 23 cubic feet.

Features

Feature content is another area where the Volkswagen ID.4 has the upper hand over the Tesla Model 3. This Volkswagen model offers a fantastic selection of standard infotainment features to keep you connected and entertained on the go, including a 10-inch touch-screen display, a Wi-Fi hotspot, voice recognition, four USB ports, a wireless device charger, a seven-speaker audio system, HD radio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and navigation. You can upgrade to a 12-inch touch screen for a better experience.

The Model 3 boasts a larger 15-inch touch-screen display, but it doesn’t offer as many infotainment features as its Volkswagen rival. It comes standard with HD radio, navigation, wireless device charging, four USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity isn’t available.

If safety is one of your primary concerns, you won’t be disappointed with either the Volkswagen ID.4 or Tesla 3. The Volkswagen has one of the most extensive lists of standard driver-assistance features among electric vehicles, totaling more than a dozen. In addition to common features, such as forward automated braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, lane-departure alert, and lane-keep assistance, you’ll also get a semi-autonomous highway-driving assistance system. The Tesla 3 also has plenty of advanced safety features, but it isn’t as generous as the ID.4.

Although the Tesla Model 3 is faster and has a longer driving range, the Volkswagen ID.4 seems to be a better value proposition. It’s a practical vehicle that offers exceptional ride comfort, plenty of passenger and cargo space, and many standard features. If you’re planning on buying an electric vehicle in San Juan Capistrano, California, consider checking out our inventory of ID.4 EVs to test-drive the awesome Volkswagen ID.4. Regardless of your driving needs or lifestyle, you’ll surely find your perfect ID.4 at our San Juan Capistrano dealership. If you want to look at more details about the Volkswagen ID.4, then our ID.4 research page and our ID.4 FAQ can help you out.