2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2021 Nissan Armada

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, setting itself apart from Volkswagen's gasoline models with a streamlined profile and wheels positioned at the corners of its body. Unlike the Tiguan and Atlas, the ID.4 avoided the rugged appearance, opting instead for a more modern and sleek design. Its interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist style with a tech-forward aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, while leatherette upholstery was available through the Statement Package.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Armada underwent a significant facelift, aligning its design with Nissan's new signature look. The SUV retained its robust and athletic body styling, enhanced by a new grille, fenders, bumpers, and LED lights. The Armada's interior, however, felt dated despite tech upgrades. The upper half of the centre stack appeared modern, but other design choices, like rouched material on door panels, detracted from its appeal. The Armada offered a spacious cabin with options for captain's chairs in the second row, though the third row was less comfortable for adults.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was available in two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor for a total of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and balanced handling. Unlike many EVs, it did not offer aggressive regenerative braking, relying instead on friction brakes for a more familiar driving experience.

The 2021 Nissan Armada was equipped with a 5.6-litre V8 engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The Armada's automatic four-wheel drive (4WD) and off-road capabilities were notable, with features like a skid plate, double-wishbone suspension, and 23.4 centimetres of ground clearance. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with an estimated 17.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The Armada excelled in towing, with a best-in-class capacity of 3,856 kilograms.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though its legroom was average. It provided 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 interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. However, rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars. The ID.4's interior featured a unique twist-grip gear selector, but storage space was limited.

The 2021 Nissan Armada, as a full-size SUV, required a step up to enter, aided by standard running boards. Its broad interior featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, though some controls were out of easy reach. The Armada offered comfortable seating for first- and second-row occupants, with power-adjustable front seats. Cargo space was 1,413 litres behind the second row and 2,692 litres with both rear rows folded. The high load floor made loading challenging, and small-item storage was limited, though the centre console provided ample space.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen, with an optional 12-inch screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The control setup relied on haptic touchpads, which were difficult to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 featured a natural-language voice-control system and ID.Light, a light strip for driver communication. While some features felt gimmicky, the infotainment system was well-positioned and easy to navigate.

The 2021 Nissan Armada boasted a class-leading 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, responsive and clear. Standard features included navigation, a 13-speaker Bose stereo, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The Armada offered a rearview camera mirror and a rear-seat entertainment system on the Platinum trim. The steering wheel, though functional, lacked the sophistication of other SUVs.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist enhanced safety, with Travel Assist providing smooth lane centring.

The 2021 Nissan Armada had not been fully rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it received a three-star rollover rating. It came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. Additional safety features included adaptive cruise control and a rear camera mirror, though advanced driving assist technologies were not available.