2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a blend of rugged styling and practicality. Despite its fully loaded status, it lacked the larger alloy wheels found on its non-hybrid counterpart, and its electronic AWD system wasn't suited for off-road adventures. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was tough yet stylish, with a need for bolder wheels to enhance its appearance. Inside, it offered a mix of impressive materials and less appealing glossy hard plastics. The interior was functional and practical, though a rattle from the license plate was noted.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, designed as an EV from the ground up, showcased a distinctive look with a streamlined profile and wheels pushed to the corners. It was part of VW's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. The ID.4's design was more crossover-like compared to other EVs, though it didn't quite resemble an SUV. Its interior combined Volkswagen's minimalism with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided a standard AWD drivetrain, with the front motor generating 149 lb-ft of torque and the rear motor 89 lb-ft. The RAV4 Hybrid offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. It had a curb weight between 1,680 kg and 1,720 kg, and its fuel efficiency was rated at 6.0 L/100 km, with a tested average of 5.9 L/100 km. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension design and Active Cornering Assist system contributed to its agreeable ride and handling, though the tires lacked grip.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations: a base RWD version with a single rear-mounted motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, and an AWD version with dual motors generating 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The RWD setup provided balanced handling, while the AWD version offered more power. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and body roll in corners. It used friction brakes in its default setting, with regenerative braking available in "B" mode. The ID.4's performance was enjoyable, with instantaneous torque for quick acceleration.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom and foot space were decent, with a reclining backrest. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy cargo area of 1,059 litres, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more front headroom than its competitors, though rear headroom and legroom were average. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," but its cabin felt spacious. Visibility was good from the driver's seat, though rearward visibility was limited. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and a narrow centre console. Heated seats and a steering wheel were standard, providing efficient cabin heating.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The larger screen included SiriusXM satellite radio and various connectivity services. The top-tier system had an 11-speaker JBL audio setup with dynamic navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and knobs for easy access. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch option, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing traditional controls. The touchpads were challenging to use, but a natural-language voice-control system offered an alternative. The ID.4 also introduced ID.Light, a light strip providing visual cues. The infotainment system was well-positioned, with intuitive menus and smart graphics.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and more. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was rated a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered driver aids like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. New features included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing highway driving and safety.