2022 Jeep Wrangler 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 MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback, and was introduced to the North American market due to the popularity of crossovers. Despite its SUV-like aspirations, the ID.4's design was more akin to its hatchback sibling, which might not have resonated with buyers seeking a traditional SUV look. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. The base model included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous design, staying true to its off-road heritage. Buyers could choose between a two-door or four-door body style, with various engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions available. Our test vehicle, the High Tide model, was based on the four-door Sport S trim and included features like LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a focus on practicality. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's charm lay in its open-top driving experience and off-road capabilities, appealing to those seeking adventure over luxury.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered 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 electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4's RWD setup provided balanced handling, although it was tuned more for comfort than sportiness. The electric motor delivered ample power, with instantaneous torque making acceleration enjoyable. However, Volkswagen opted for traditional friction brakes over aggressive regenerative braking, aiming to provide a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline cars.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, on the other hand, was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with its off-road capabilities and open-top design providing an immersive and adventurous ride. However, it was not without its quirks, such as loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a rough ride, which were part of its charm for enthusiasts.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a spacious interior with more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, although legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing several EV rivals but falling short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The ID.4 lacked a front trunk, prioritizing cabin space instead. The interior felt roomy, with good forward visibility but limited rearward visibility due to thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats, enhancing comfort in colder climates.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was designed for durability and practicality, with comfortable seats and cloth upholstery. However, getting in and out was challenging, especially with a raised suspension. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some adjustment. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views while others were obstructed. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but enjoyed a good view once seated. Cargo space was ample, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with small compartments and netting for smaller items.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen, and included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced traditional controls. While visually appealing, the touchpads were challenging to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 also featured a natural-language voice-control system and the innovative ID.Light, which communicated information through a light strip at the base of the windshield. Despite some gimmicky features, the infotainment system was user-friendly, with well-positioned screens and intuitive menus.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was more basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered additional features like satellite radio and a premium audio system, but the standard setup met most needs. The Wrangler included options like remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, extending the open-air driving season.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received high safety ratings, with the IIHS naming it a Top Safety Pick+ and the NHTSA awarding RWD versions a five-star rating. 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 and responsive acceleration and deceleration.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were optional, with the Safety Group adding blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and the Advanced Safety Group offering adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Its safety features were beneficial, but the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design and capabilities.