Between juggling work and family responsibilities, you need a multifaceted SUV that can adjust quickly. Because you prefer to make eco-conscious purchases whenever possible, you’re drawn to the idea of a green alternative. That’s why you’re exploring EVs (electric vehicles) that are not only practical and versatile for your life near Union, Newark, and Elizabeth, NJ but also sustainable.
The Toms Volkswagen of Union team has compared the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Nissan Ariya, two fully electric SUVs poised to take your drives into the future. Read on to discover which one will do its part best for you and your family as you do your part for our planet.
STANDARD RANGE
AT-HOME CHARGING TIME (0-100%)
MAX TOWING CAPACITY
First and foremost, you need a vehicle you can be confident in while setting a good example. As you impact impressionable young minds, you want to limit your vehicle's impact on the environment. Decreasing waste and lowering emissions is a good starting point. Still, you want the power to travel reliably from Point A to Point B.
Equipped with synchronous motors and lithium-ion batteries, the VW ID.4 and the Nissan Ariya are built for daily commutes and weekend getaways. In their standard iterations, the Volkswagen ID.4 takes an early lead with 282 horsepower (HP) compared to the Ariya’s 214 HP. That extra power translates to more fun—and utility. The VW ID.4 offers greater towing capability, easily handling a lightweight trailer, tent camper, or personal watercraft:
- VW ID.4 Max Towing Capacity: 2,700 lbs.
- Nissan Ariya Max Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs.
Even with its base trim, the VW ID.4 offers a standard capability of 2,200 pounds, whereas the standard Ariya is not rated for towing.
Driving an electric vehicle lets you skip the gas station and enjoy more miles with fewer stops—just smooth, efficient travel. The VW ID.4 and the Nissan Ariya offer similarly efficient travel, starting with their base two-wheel drive trims. The difference becomes more noticeable with their all-wheel drive models:
Model | EPA-Estimated City | EPA-Estimated Highway |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro | 108 MPGe** | 96 MPGe** |
| Nissan Ariya Engage AWD | 101 MPGe | 86 MPGe |
Ultimately, the VW ID.4 lets you go farther on a single charge, making it the more efficient option—especially for longer trips.
A prime consideration for EV drivers is range and charging time—you want confidence your vehicle can go the distance once fully powered. Although both models offer solid performance, the Volkswagen ID.4 once again leads the charge with a standard EPA-estimated range of 291 miles—significantly more than the Ariya’s 216 miles.*
With at-home and fast-charging options, your EV will be ready when you are—although the Volkswagen will likely be ready sooner.
Model | Minimum At-Home Charging (0-100%) | DC Fast Charging (10-80%) |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen ID.4 | 8 hours | 28 minutes |
| Nissan Ariya | 10 hours | 35 minutes |
Both models include complimentary charging for a period of time through their respective network memberships. Once again, the Volkswagen surpasses the Nissan by providing three years of complimentary charging for the VW ID.4 compared to the Ariya’s one year.
As you’ve seen, the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Nissan Ariya have the goods. Yet, you also appreciate tasteful aesthetics, so you’d prefer a vehicle with striking good looks, too. And, naturally, you need plenty of comfortable space for all your people and everything they bring.
The Nissan Ariya takes a futuristic, angular approach to its exterior design, while the Volkswagen ID.4 has a more form-meets-function mentality. Its flowing lines are complemented by a bold front bumper with Gloss Black scoops that funnel air around the vehicle. They work in tandem to make the VW ID.4 even more aerodynamic.
These EVs have many similar standard exterior features, including:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Large LED headlights and DRLs
- Body-color roof or black roof
- Available panoramic roof
Whether you choose the Volkswagen or the Nissan, you’ll have a variety of options to personalize your electric vehicle and make it truly yours. However, only the Volkswagen comes standard with roof rails and offers available illuminated logos and puddle lights for an extra touch of distinction.
These two EVs are classified as compact crossovers. Yet the Volkswagen ID.4 has an even smaller footprint, allowing you to navigate narrow city streets and tighter parking spots easily.
Model | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen ID.4 | 180.5 inches | 72.9 inches | 64.6 inches |
| Nissan Ariya | 182.9 inches | 74.8 inches | 65.4 inches |
Although offering similar amounts of interior space for passengers, their cargo capacities differ, which may require riders in the Ariya to hold some essentials on their laps.
- VW ID.4 cargo capacity (behind back row/behind front row): 30.3/64.2 cubic feet
- Nissan Ariya cargo capacity (behind back row/behind front row): 22.8/59.7 cubic feet
Their modern, airy cabins feature a streamlined driver’s cockpit and a wealth of standard and available amenities, such as heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and interior ambient lighting. However, the VW ID.4 has greater opportunities for comfort by offering 3-zone climate control and 12-way power front seats with massage, neither of which are available in the Ariya.
You spend a lot of time behind the wheel, so your EV needs to be in tune with the digital world and keep you connected—to colleagues in the office or your family at home and the internet for your apps, maps, music, and more. You want it to be straightforward and user-friendly to keep your attention on the road. You also want the reassurance that it’s looking out for you, even in those hard-to-see areas.
Technology should be simple, as evidenced by the systems in the VW ID.4 and the Nissan Ariya. The Volkswagen comes standard with a 12.9-inch screen, which is larger than the Nissan’s 12.3-inch offering. They have similar standard infotainment features that ensure you remain connected, informed, and engaged mile after mile: wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless charging, and four USB ports.
That's just the start of the VW ID.4. Some of the next-level infotainment tech offerings you’ll enjoy when you drive the Volkswagen include:
- Plus Nav EV – Provides over-the-air updates so you’re assured of having the most current traffic, route, and parking info when you’re on the go.
- Plus Speech EV - Uses natural voice recognition and a simple “Hello, ID.” to control climate and other settings.
- myVW app – Receive service reminders/maintenance schedules, determine vehicle charging status, locate charging stations, and more.
You’ll find similar features with the Ariya.
Wouldn't having a virtual copilot that works with your safe driving habits help add an extra layer of protection on today's uncertain roadways? Thanks to IQ.DRIVE in the Volkswagen and available ProPILOT Assist 2.0 in the Nissan, brand-specific versions of these driver-assistance features, among others, will keep a vigilant watch on the areas around your vehicle:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Front Assist
- Emergency Assist
- Lane Assist
In certain situations, they can act semi-autonomously on your behalf to help keep you and your occupants safe.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rates vehicles based on their crashworthiness. The NHTSA awarded the latest model year of each a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating; however, the Ariya only received four stars in Frontal Crash Rating, while the VW ID.4 earned a solid five stars.
Like you, the Volkswagen ID.4 knows how to do it all, adapting as necessary to meet your family's needs and doing so sustainably. To experience this reliable, eco-conscious machine firsthand, contact Toms Volkswagen of Union.
We’ll help you schedule your test drive near Union, Newark, and Elizabeth, NJ today so you can find out for yourself.
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Shop VW ID.4Value Your TradeApply for FinancingSchedule a Test Drive*2025 ID.4 Pro 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 the owner's manual for details.
** EPA estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. For more information, see www.fueleconomy.gov.