2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, new wheel designs, and revised taillights and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille, black 17-inch alloy wheels, and AT4 badges, along with a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint and a black leather interior, equipped with various packages and a panoramic sunroof, bringing its MSRP to $44,757 in Canada. Despite the upscale appearance, the Terrain's interior materials and design did not fully meet expectations for its price range, with some features like the head-up display and pushbutton transmission controls being less intuitive.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling changes, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4, based on VW's MEB platform, offered a minimalist interior design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres. The interior space was generous, with more legroom and headroom compared to other affordable EVs. The ID.4's cargo capacity was also impressive, making it a practical choice for those seeking an SUV-like experience in an electric vehicle.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While the engine provided adequate performance, it lacked the acceleration and towing capacity of the previously available 2.0-litre engine. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the engine within its torque band, but the Terrain's overall driving experience was not particularly engaging. The AT4 model offered off-road capabilities with FWD and AWD modes, but its ground clearance and handling were not sufficient for serious off-roading. Fuel economy was reasonable, with a combined rating of 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model with RWD or AWD. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD version increased output to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's handling was comfortable but not particularly sporty, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, providing a more traditional driving experience.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a spacious interior with power-adjustable front seats, heated features, and dual-zone climate control. The AT4 trim included leather upholstery with contrast stitching, providing an upscale feel. The rear seat was roomy, with ample legroom and support, and the cargo space was generous, with 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seats folded. The Terrain also featured various storage solutions, although some were not optimally designed.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. Cargo capacity was also substantial, with 858 litres behind the rear seats and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was modest, with RWD models capable of towing 1,000 kilograms and AWD models 1,225 kilograms. Interior updates for 2023 included a redesigned centre console and three-zone climate control, enhancing functionality and comfort.

The 2022 GMC Terrain featured two infotainment systems, with the higher trims offering an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation and a Bose audio system, although the latter was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was highly effective, accurately responding to various commands. Additional tech features included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved software responsiveness and wireless smartphone integration. The infotainment system provided sharp graphics and intuitive voice recognition, although the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly. The ID.4 also featured the ID.Light system, which provided visual cues for navigation and drive modes, adding a unique touch to the driving experience.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The optional Pro Safety Plus Package added features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain at the time of review.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model, similar to the 2023 version, earned the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with high marks in crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4's standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0, which offered adaptive cruise control and lane centring.