2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, setting it apart from the more rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 shared its platform with the European-market ID.3 hatchback, but with a slightly taller ride height and plastic body cladding, it aimed to appeal to North American crossover buyers. Despite its SUV-like intentions, 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 came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, while leatherette upholstery was available in the Statement Package.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market since its North American debut in 1996, had evolved significantly over five generations. By 2022, it had grown in size and sophistication, often topping SUV sales charts in Canada. The RAV4's exterior design was in line with contemporary crossover trends, with angular wheel arches and crisp lines contrasting with organic body shapes. Its expressive headlights and grille gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by a straightforward centre stack. The touchscreen interface was positioned for easy access, and the interior design included a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied various cabin elements together. The RAV4's interior was spacious, with ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families.

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, with the front wheels steering and the rear wheels driving. While not sporty, the ID.4 prioritized comfort, offering a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. Unlike many EVs, the ID.4 did not support one-pedal driving, relying on friction brakes for a more familiar driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model used a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy varied depending on the drivetrain, with FWD models achieving 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor for 217 combined horsepower, offering impressive fuel economy of 5.8 L/100 km city and 6.3 highway. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering. AWD models featured Multi-Terrain Select tuning for various road conditions.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, though its legroom was average for the segment. 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 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, though rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and a narrow centre console with limited storage space. Heated steering wheel and front seats were standard, providing efficient cabin heating.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered up to 1,059 litres of luggage space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and could tow up to 1,588 kilograms in certain configurations. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable, with ample space for four adults and the ability to carry five. The front seats provided generous legroom and headroom, while the centre console offered plenty of storage options. The RAV4's interior was well-equipped, with dual-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel available on higher trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 12-inch screen was optional. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced traditional switchgear. While visually appealing, the touchpads were challenging to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light feature, which communicated information through a light strip at the base of the windshield. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with easy-to-navigate menus and smart-looking graphics.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and smartphone integration as standard. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, and additional connectivity features. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting. Top trims featured a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera system, and a head-up display, enhancing the RAV4's tech appeal.

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 were also included, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota's Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. It included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid their highest five-star rating.