2022 Toyota Venza 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 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 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback in Europe. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, the ID.4 aimed to appeal to North American crossover buyers. Its interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. 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 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a modern design on the TGNA-K platform, shared with several Toyota and Lexus models. It measured 4,739 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,674 mm in height, with a 2,960 mm wheelbase. The Venza's exterior design was sleek, with a scalloped body side and LED lighting on the tailgate. Its interior was Lexus-like, featuring high-quality materials and an elegant layout. The dashboard was layered, and the touchscreen display was well-placed. The Venza's front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults. The overall design was more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures.

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, opting for a more traditional driving experience with friction brakes.

The 2022 Toyota Venza combined a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine with three electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing AWD capability. Drivers could choose from Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, and regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery. The Venza offered a comfortable ride with agile handling, suitable for family use rather than aggressive driving.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample front and rear headroom compared to other EVs, though legroom was average. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a front trunk, prioritizing cabin space. The interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility but limited rearward visibility due to thick pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats for efficient cabin heating.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five with good headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, and the cabin felt roomy, especially with the Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. The Venza included convenience features like an electric parking brake, sliding sun visors, and a spacious glove compartment. It provided 816 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on cabin quietness with sound-blocking materials, creating a serene environment.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional 12-inch screen. The control setup relied on haptic touchpads, which were challenging to use without tactile feedback. A natural-language voice-control system allowed for easier operation, and the ID.Light strip communicated information to the driver. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with intuitive graphics and menu options.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid system required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without charging concerns. The Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The Venza LE included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the XLE and Limited added features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and head-up display. Toyota Connected Services provided additional safety and convenience features.

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 driver aids like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were new features for 2021, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Toyota Venza included the Toyota Star Safety System with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite with forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.