2022 Subaru Forester 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. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, such as plastic body cladding and a slightly elevated ride height, the ID.4 aimed to present itself as an electric SUV, though it didn't quite resemble a traditional SUV. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design 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, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, embraced a rugged and practical design. It featured a suspension lift and higher ride height, with massive protective cladding and a matte-black hood decal, giving it a distinctive appearance. The interior focused on functionality, with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and copper-coloured stitching. The Forester's cabin combined hard plastic and soft surfaces, emphasizing quality construction. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation. The Forester's design prioritized practicality, with features like all-wheel drive and a re-tuned suspension for improved ride and handling.

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 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and balanced handling. It lacked aggressive regenerative braking, relying on friction brakes for a more familiar driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All models featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. The Wilderness model boasted a 25% increase in initial torque supply and doubled towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. The Forester's engine performed adequately at sea level but felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios, and the Wilderness trim included SI-Drive for a more responsive powertrain. Subaru's dual-function X-Mode system enhanced off-road capabilities, and the re-tuned suspension improved ride and handling.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk" but compensated with a spacious cabin. Visibility was good from the driver's seat, though rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars. The interior featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats. The Forester's interior offered high comfort levels, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 818 litres without the sunroof and 762 litres with it, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded. The Forester's roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12-inch screen optional. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 5.3-inch display screen for the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads. The ID.4 featured a natural-language voice-control system and ID.Light, a light strip at the base of the windshield. While some features felt gimmicky, the touchscreen was well-positioned with easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2022 Subaru Forester offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims included an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim featured a 180-degree forward-view camera. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition system was hit-and-miss.

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. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were new standard features for 2021.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with improved camera-based driver assist technology. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and DriverFocus facial recognition technology. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall crash-test rating.