VS
At a Glance
Power
300hp @ 5500
282hp
Torque
310lb-ft @ 3500
402lb-ft
Towing
5000lbs
2200lbs
Engine
2.3 L/140cc
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Choosing between the Ford Explorer and the Volkswagen Id 4 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Ford Explorer delivers 300hp @ 5500 while the Volkswagen Id 4 produces 282hp. Pricing starts at $45,155 for the Explorer and $45,095 for the Id 4. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
300hp @ 5500
282hp
Torque (lb-ft)
310lb-ft @ 3500
402lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.3 L/140cc
—
Cylinders
4
—
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
1
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
20 (2025)mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29 (2025)mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.9gal
—
Dimensions
Length (in)
198.8in
180.5in
Width (in)
78.9in
72.9in
Height (in)
69.6in
64.6in
Wheelbase (in)
119.1in
108.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4344lbs
4672lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
5000lbs
2200lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
—
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Volkswagen Id 4
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Id 4
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Id 4
Practicality
Explorer
Pros & Cons
Ford Explorer
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Volkswagen Id 4
Lower starting price ($45,095)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Explorer or Id 4?
The Explorer produces 300hp @ 5500 and 310lb-ft @ 3500 of torque while the Id 4 delivers 282hp and 402lb-ft of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Explorer and Id 4?
The Explorer starts from $45,155 and the Id 4 from $45,095. The Id 4 is cheaper by $60 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Explorer or Id 4?
The Explorer has a braked towing capacity of 5000lbs and the Id 4 can tow 2200lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Explorer or the Id 4?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.