2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Jeep Wrangler

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body style, catering to different preferences. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was a standard feature with multiple systems available depending on the trim level. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Willys Sport, Sahara High Altitude, and Wrangler Rubicon 392. The High Tide model, based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, was a special edition in the US market, featuring options like LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield upgrade.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling changes, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4, based on VW's MEB platform, was designed specifically for EVs, offering a minimalist interior design with a feeling of quality. The base model had a manual driver's seat, but the overall interior didn't feel like a downgrade from the higher-level ID.4 Pro AWD. Leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres was standard for 2023. The ID.4's design was distinct from traditional SUVs, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance, but it provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, making it a practical choice for those seeking an SUV-like experience in an electric vehicle.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It had an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, ideal for slippery road conditions. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving by Natural Resources Canada, but during testing, it averaged 14.0 L/100 km over 700 kilometres. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and sensory-rich ride, albeit with compromises in comfort and refinement. It was known for its off-road capabilities and the ability to provide a sense of freedom and adventure.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD, while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack with options for RWD or AWD. The single electric motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD powertrain increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's driving dynamics were comfortable and refined, though it allowed for some body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW's approach didn't support one-pedal driving, offering a more familiar experience for first-time EV drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was rugged, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. The driving position was close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield, requiring some acclimation. Visibility varied, with some challenges at intersections and rear views obstructed by the spare tire. Rear-seat passengers faced entry and exit difficulties, but once inside, they found agreeable accommodations. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments. The Wrangler Unlimited offered 898 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,050 litres with them folded.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front and rear legroom and headroom. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior changes for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage. Three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats was available, enhancing comfort and functionality.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen with software updates for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were distracting, though voice recognition mitigated this issue. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's safety ratings were lacking, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS in crash tests. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.

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 received the IIHS's Top Safety Pick+ rating, with high scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.