Cherokee vs ID.4
The Cherokee and the ID.4 are aimed squarely at each other: same class, different badges. If you were hoping for a knockout, this isn’t it. The Cherokee and the ID.4 stay within reach of each other almost everywhere.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance ID.4 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance1.0
- Engine & Performance3.5
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The ID.4 has 72 hp more power
At 282 hp versus 210 hp, this is a decisive lead for the ID.4, the kind of difference you notice without looking for it. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
-
The ID.4 has 172 lb-ft more torque
If torque is one of your priorities, this settles it: the ID.4 leads clearly with 402 lb-ft to the Cherokee’s 230 lb-ft. The ID.4’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 188 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Width (no mirrors) | 74.7 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Height | 67.5 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Wheelbase | 113 in | N/A (not specified) |
Engine & Performance
ID.4 leads
This is one of the ID.4’s strongest areas. On engine & performance, the Cherokee falls well short. Point to the ID.4 for 72 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. The takeaway: on engine & performance, the ID.4 is the stronger car.
Total system output
Cherokee: 210 hp ID.4: 282 hp The ID.4’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
Cherokee: 230 lb-ft ID.4: 402 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
There’s no meaningful winner in the space & practicality section; the two are too close to separate. Net result on space & practicality: level.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Call the off-road & towing round a draw. The takeaway: off-road & towing is not where these two differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Hybrid | Electric |
| Engine | 1.6L turbo I4 hybrid (two electric motors) | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 210 hp | 282 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 230 lb-ft | 402 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | eCVT | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 37 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 39 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 35 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 291 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 8 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Max towing | 3,500 lb | N/A (not specified) |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | 12.3 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | N/A (not specified) |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | N/A (not specified) |
Dimensions
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 188 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Width (no mirrors) | 74.7 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Height | 67.5 in | N/A (not specified) |
| Wheelbase | 113 in | N/A (not specified) |
Price
| Spec | Cherokee | ID.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $35,000 | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the ID.4 if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (282 hp vs 210 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (402 lb-ft vs 230 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Volkswagen and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Cherokee or the ID.4?
On the specs compared here, the ID.4 makes more sense for most buyers; the Cherokee doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
The Cherokee and the ID.4 are aimed at each other, and I think the gaps between them are more interesting than the headlines. For me, the deciding factor is that only the ID.4 gives you 72 hp more power.
Who should get which? The Cherokee for the things a spec sheet can’t capture, the ID.4 for engine & performance.
My pick: the ID.4.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.