2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a strikingly sporty and sleek design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design elements, such as the highback tail with a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and wheels pushed to the corners of the chassis, contributed to its dynamic look. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The aggressive V-shaped headlights and sealed air intake-like trim on the bumper further enhanced its sporty aesthetic. The interior was equally impressive, featuring dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and a mix of suede and leather seats, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 made subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design for improved aerodynamics. While it was easily distinguishable as an EV, the ID.4 lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. However, it was based on VW’s MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, offering a modular approach to support various models. The interior maintained a minimalist design with a focus on quality, featuring leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres and a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen. The ID.4's interior changes for 2023 improved functionality, with a conventional lid for the centre console and three-zone climate control.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered an exhilarating performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the EV6 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. The EV6's handling was impressive, with torque being routed quickly and effectively, providing a seamless power delivery. The regenerative braking system offered more than eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in its maximum I-Pedal setting. However, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of Kia's estimated range. Charging performance was better, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times were longer than Kia's claims.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a 62-kWh battery pack for the base model and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, with RWD or AWD options. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD version increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's handling was comfortable and refined, though it allowed for more body roll compared to hot hatchbacks. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, providing a more familiar experience for new EV drivers.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles and a twisting rotary shifter. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it included an onboard power generator for additional utility.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres when folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 improved functionality, with a conventional lid for the centre console and three-zone climate control.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, though it required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured a 360-degree camera system, customizable "engine" sounds, and an augmented reality head-up display. The highest trim included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and remote parking assist.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety ratings but offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring on higher trims.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was expected to maintain the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" rating. It included a robust set of standard driver-assist features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0.