@ BMW Group Press
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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BMW iX1 vs VW ID.4 – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether BMW iX1 or VW ID.4 fits your lifestyle better.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Introduction: The New Electric SUVs Duel

The automotive landscape is rapidly evolving, with electric vehicles taking center stage. In this exciting segment, we compare the BMW iX1 and the Volkswagen ID.4, two robust electric SUVs that promise performance, innovation, and efficiency. Let's dive into the unique features, technical specifications, and what makes each vehicle stand out in this competitive market.

ID.4 @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions: A Fresh Take on SUVs

The BMW iX1 features a striking design, combining elegance with functionality. Measuring 4500 mm in length, 1845 mm in width, and 1616 mm in height, the iX1 offers a refined aesthetic and a spacious interior. It accentuates BMW's commitment to producing premium quality vehicles.

On the other hand, the Volkswagen ID.4 is slightly larger, with dimensions of 4584 mm in length, 1852 mm in width, and anywhere between 1619 mm to 1634 mm in height depending on the variant. This translates into a more rugged appearance and a roomier interior, appealing to families and adventurous drivers alike.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Power and Performance: Electric Excellence

Under the hood, the BMW iX1 offers two power configurations: a 204 HP front-wheel-drive model and a sportier 313 HP all-wheel-drive variant. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.6 seconds for the base version and an impressive 5.6 seconds for the high-powered model. Its 64.8 kWh battery provides an electric range of up to 463 km, making it an attractive option for long-distance driving.

In contrast, the Volkswagen ID.4 shines with multiple power choices, offering outputs from 170 HP to a robust 340 HP. Its acceleration capabilities vary as well, with the top model achieving 0-100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. With battery sizes ranging from 52 kWh to 77 kWh, the ID.4 boasts an electric range of up to 572 km, making it a formidable contender in the long-distance EV category.

ID.4 @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Efficiency and Sustainability: A Greener Choice

Both vehicles emphasize low energy consumption. The BMW iX1 showcases an impressive consumption rate of 15.8 kWh/100 km for its base model and 17.1 kWh/100 km for the all-wheel-drive variant. The ID.4, similarly, features consumption figures ranging from 15.8 to 16.8 kWh/100 km depending on the variant, emphasizing its efficiency.

With CO2 emissions rated at zero grams per kilometer for both models, they align with the trend towards sustainable motoring, making them excellent options for environmentally-conscious consumers.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Interior and Technology: Comfort Meets Innovation

Both the BMW iX1 and VW ID.4 offer a comfortable, tech-savvy interior that caters to modern requirements. The iX1, designed for five passengers, features premium materials and a digital display that echoes BMW's luxury tradition. With a trunk capacity of 490 liters, it offers ample storage for all your needs.

The ID.4, also seating five, comes with a more minimalistic, tech-forward dashboard. Its 543-liter trunk capacity provides additional space for luggage or gear, making it suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Advanced driver-assistance systems, touchscreen interfaces, and connectivity features are highlights in both vehicles, yet the ID.4's software integration may appeal more to tech-savvy buyers.

ID.4 @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Final Verdict: Which EV Wins?

Choosing between the BMW iX1 and Volkswagen ID.4 ultimately depends on personal preference and requirements. The iX1 bridges the gap between luxury and performance, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize brand legacy and driving dynamics. In contrast, the ID.4 serves as a versatile family SUV with an impressive range and a more spacious interior, suitable for longer journeys and daily commutes alike.

Whichever you choose, both the BMW iX1 and the VW ID.4 mark a significant step forward in the pursuit of electric mobility, showcasing innovation and performance in the world of sustainable transport.

Video - VW ID.4

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW ID.4 has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34600 £, while the BMW iX1 costs 41800 £. That’s a price difference of around 7256 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the VW ID.4: with 15.60 kWh per 100 km, it’s slight more efficient than the BMW iX1 with 15.80 kWh. That’s a difference of about 0.20 kWh.

As for range, the VW ID.4 performs a bit better – achieving up to 569 km, about 106 km more than the BMW iX1.

ID.4 @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the VW ID.4 has a hardly perceptible edge – offering 340 HP compared to 313 HP. That’s roughly 27 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW ID.4 is minimal quicker – completing the sprint in 5.40 s, while the BMW iX1 takes 5.60 s. That’s about 0.20 s faster.

There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 180 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW ID.4 pulls distinct stronger with 679 Nm compared to 494 Nm. That’s about 185 Nm difference.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, BMW iX1 is minimal lighter – 1940 kg compared to 1975 kg. The difference is around 35 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW ID.4 offers slight more room – 543 L compared to 490 L. That’s a difference of about 53 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW ID.4 performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1575 L, which is about 80 L more than the BMW iX1.

When it comes to payload, VW ID.4 a bit takes the win – 551 kg compared to 495 kg. That’s a difference of about 56 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the VW ID.4 shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £34,600
ID.4 @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW ID.4

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 170 - 340 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.6 - 17 kWh
  • Electric Range : 356 - 569 km

BMW iX1

5 (2)
rate

The BMW iX1 stands out as a versatile addition to the electric vehicle market, seamlessly combining compact dimensions with advanced electric technology. Its sophisticated design elements and premium interiors ensure a luxurious driving experience, while the vehicle's performance focuses on delivering both efficiency and agility. With enhanced connectivity features and an emphasis on sustainability, this model represents a significant step forward in BMW's commitment to a greener future.

details

VW ID.4

4.5 (2)
rate

The VW ID.4 is a calm, roomy electric SUV that turns everyday driving into a quietly confident experience, its practical packaging and smooth manners tailored perfectly for family life. Volkswagen's solid build and intuitive interior tech mean you get electric practicality without the sci‑fi theatrics, making the ID.4 a sensible, surprisingly likable choice for most buyers.

details
BMW iX1
VW ID.4
iX1 @ BMW Group Press
ID.4 @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
41800 - 54600 £
Price
34600 - 47200 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 - 17.1 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
15.6 - 17 kWh
Electric Range
436 - 463 km
Electric Range
356 - 569 km
Battery Capacity
64.80 kWh
Battery Capacity
52 - 77 kWh
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1940 - 2085 kg
Curb weight
1975 - 2248 kg
Trunk capacity
490 L
Trunk capacity
543 L
Length
4500 mm
Length
4582 - 4584 mm
Width
1845 mm
Width
1852 mm
Height
1616 mm
Height
1619 - 1634 mm
Max trunk capacity
1495 L
Max trunk capacity
1575 L
Payload
495 kg
Payload
511 - 551 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
204 - 313 HP
Power HP
170 - 340 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.6 - 8.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 9 s
Max Speed
170 - 180 km/h
Max Speed
160 - 180 km/h
Torque
250 - 494 Nm
Torque
310 - 679 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
150 - 230 kW
Power kW
125 - 250 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2022 - 2023
Model Year
2023 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BMW
Brand
VW
Is the BMW iX1 offered with different drivetrains?

The BMW iX1 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.