2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels positioned at the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of models like the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. Despite its crossover classification, the ID.4's design was more akin to a hatchback, similar to other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base model included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette available in higher trims.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX shared a strong family resemblance with its sibling, the Encore, featuring Buick's signature trapezoidal grille and similar design elements. The Encore GX had a slightly longer wheelbase, giving it a more balanced look. The optional ST appearance package enhanced its sporty appeal with custom grille accents and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and standard cloth seats, while the top Essence trim featured leather upholstery. The interior was user-friendly, with straightforward controls and excellent visibility, aided by an optional camera-based rearview mirror.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain options. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) model featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor, boosting total output to 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 relied on friction brakes rather than aggressive regenerative braking, aiming to provide a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline vehicles.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The engine was surprisingly capable, though a bit noisy. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise and vibration levels. Despite being an SUV, it was not designed for off-roading, handling only light gravel and dirt paths.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered generous front and rear headroom compared to other EVs, though 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 front trunk, opting for more cabin space instead. The interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility but limited rearward visibility due to thick pillars. The unique twist-grip gear selector freed up some console space, though storage was limited.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, offered adequate front-seat headroom and legroom. Rear-seat space was tighter, and fitting three adults was challenging. Cargo space measured 665 litres with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and could accommodate long items with seats folded. The optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience, with adjustable height settings for easier access.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen (optional 12-inch) featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The control setup relied heavily on haptic touchpads, which lacked tactile feedback, making them challenging to use while driving. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system and the innovative ID.Light, which communicated information through a light strip. Despite some gimmicky features, the infotainment system was well-designed with intuitive menus.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered an eight-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Driver-assistance features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The tech package added advanced features like HD surround vision and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

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 models. It included driver aids like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist enhanced safety, with Travel Assist offering smooth lane centring.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX earned five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crash tests. It featured Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. The Encore GX's headlights received mixed ratings, with the top trim's LED headlights rated "Acceptable."