2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Kia Sorento

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 pushed to the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it offered a unique design, it didn't quite resemble an SUV, a common trait among many EV crossovers. 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 upholstery available in higher trims.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, exuded a robust presence with rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, and black cladding. In Canada, the X-Line was a mid-grade package, offering standard all-wheel drive across all models, including hybrid variants. The Sorento's interior was marked by quality materials, such as leather upholstery and simulated wood trim, providing a sense of luxury. The cabin was well-constructed, with attention to detail evident even in the base models. Despite its stylish interior, the Sorento maintained practical storage space, ensuring functionality alongside its aesthetic appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) model featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet 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 Kia Sorento's standard engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which was considered underwhelming. More powerful options included a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, as well as hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. The turbo engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, offered a more engaging driving experience, with a 0-60 mph time of about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension provided a balance of comfort and control, making it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV. However, real-world fuel consumption was higher than official estimates, averaging 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more 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, surpassing several EV competitors but falling short of gasoline models like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. 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. Standard heated seats and steering wheel helped maintain cabin warmth efficiently.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Second-row captain's chairs were standard from the EX trim, offering comfort and convenience for passengers. However, the third-row seat was cramped, better suited for occasional use or children. Cargo space was limited with all seats up but expanded significantly with the third row folded, reaching up to 2,139 litres. A smart power tailgate added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the haptic touchpads for controls were challenging to use without tactile feedback. A natural-language voice-control system offered an alternative, though it was slow to respond. The ID.Light system added a futuristic touch, providing visual cues for various functions. Despite some gimmicky features, the infotainment basics were well-executed, with a user-friendly touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 10.25-inch display standard on higher trims. The infotainment system included navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration, though the larger screen required a cable for connectivity. The interface was intuitive, though the design choices might not appeal to everyone. A 12-speaker Bose sound system was exclusive to the SX trim, while a wireless phone charger was available from the LX Premium trim. Voice recognition was less effective compared to Hyundai's system, despite shared technology.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD models. 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 Kia Sorento was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system and Junction Assist. The Blind View Monitor system provided live video feeds of blind spots, enhancing traditional monitoring systems. Highway Driving Assist offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities, performing well in various conditions. The Sorento earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its LED headlights received a poor rating in Canada.