2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a familial resemblance with the Nissan Armada, boasting a platform and mechanical similarities. Despite its large size, the QX80 was considered well-proportioned, with a distinctive front-end styling marked by the Infiniti grille. The tasteful integration of LED lighting and conservative chrome use added to its upscale appearance, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80's cabin featured upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, though its design echoed the Armada's. While the interior was comfortable and attractive, it fell short of the high standards set by competitors in the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 underwent subtle styling changes, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper design for improved aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colours, along with a light-up rear VW logo, were introduced. Although the ID.4 was easily distinguishable as an EV, it lacked the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 offered a minimalist interior design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres. The base model featured a manual driver's seat, but overall, the interior maintained a high standard of quality.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was a highlight, providing strong performance and an appealing exhaust note. However, it was also thirsty, with a preference for premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The QX80's off-road capabilities were notable, with standard four-wheel drive in Canada and a computer-controlled transfer case. It had a generous towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms and managed to control body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base model and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD version delivered 295 hp and 339 lb-ft, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight, improving acceleration and handling. While the ID.4's AWD version rivalled hot hatchbacks in acceleration, it allowed too much body roll for spirited driving. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, aided by a grab handle for shorter drivers. Inside, the cabin felt spacious and airy, with good front-seat head- and legroom. Visibility was commendable, though sideview mirrors were small. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than some competitors' panoramic designs. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, but third-row space was cramped. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with 470 litres behind the third row, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with all seats down.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front and rear legroom and headroom. Cargo space was generous, with 858 litres with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in interior space, it excelled among affordable EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kilograms and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional centre console lid and improved phone storage.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The system included navigation, voice recognition, and connected services. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with multiple USB ports and a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. Notably absent was Infiniti's ProPilot Assist, due to the QX80's older architecture.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring software updates for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and voice recognition, though haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues. Despite some interface drawbacks, voice recognition made controls more accessible.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners. The ProActive grade offered a smart rearview mirror and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA rated the QX80 three out of five stars for rollover resistance, while the 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.

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 earned the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.