New Volkswagen ID 7 vs Tesla Model 3: practicality
As Volkswagen's new electric flagship, the ID 7 has a lot to prove. Let's see whether its talents run deep enough to beat the class-leading and recently refreshed Tesla Model 3...
Space and practicality
Front space, rear space, seating flexibility, boot
Both cars have an abundance of front head and leg room, but the Volkswagen ID 7 is in another league when it comes to rear space.
This isn’t to say that the Tesla Model 3 is cramped in the back; it actually provides generous leg and head room compared with rivals such as the BMW i4 and Polestar 2. However, stepping into the back of an ID 7 feels akin to entering a luxury limousine. In addition to a lower floor and more under-thigh support, the ID 7 offers acres of leg room, allowing occupants to stretch out in complete comfort.
Similarly, while both cars can carry three passengers in the back with relative ease, thanks to their flat floors and broad glass roofs (which not only free up head room but also lend an airy feel), the physically larger ID 7 benefits from a much wider middle seat and greater elbow room.
The Model 3 fights back, however, when it comes to luggage capacity, because it has both a rear boot and a smaller ‘frunk’ under the bonnet. The ID 7 doesn’t get this luxury. So, despite having a longer, wider and more accessible boot than the Model 3 (due to it being a hatchback rather than a saloon), the ID 7 can hold only eight carry-on suitcases, compared with the nine swallowed by the Model 3 (eight in the main boot and another under the bonnet).
Boot space
Volkswagen ID 7
Boot 532-1586 litres Suitcases 8
Tesla Model 3
Boot 594 litres (rear), 88 litres (front) Suitcases 9
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