2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, with its redesigned exterior, presented a more spacious and refined look compared to its predecessor. It was available in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+, each offering different trim levels such as base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury. The NX 350, in particular, stood out with its turbocharged engine and distinctive Lexus design elements, including the signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on decluttering, although some controls integrated into the touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. Despite this, the NX maintained high-quality materials and offered features like a panoramic moonroof and sport-bolstered seats in the F Sport trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black front bumper trim and a more aerodynamic rear bumper design. The ID.4, based on VW’s MEB platform, was distinctively an EV but lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. The interior carried over the quality and minimalist design from VW’s gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery and recycled fibre inserts. The ID.4 offered more interior space than many affordable EVs, with ample cargo capacity and practical storage solutions. The 2023 model also introduced a conventional lid for the centre console and improved climate control options, enhancing functionality.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added adaptive variable sports suspension and additional driving modes, enhancing its sporty character. The NX 350 was capable of accelerating to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with fuel consumption estimates of 9.5 L/100 km in combined driving. While the NX excelled in handling and driving dynamics, it was not suited for off-road adventures due to its limited ground clearance and approach angles.

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 rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower, while the dual-motor AWD version increased output to 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4’s smaller battery pack reduced curb weight, potentially improving acceleration and handling. While the ID.4 provided impressive acceleration, it allowed too much body roll for truly engaging driving on twisty roads. The regenerative braking system offered a familiar driving experience, though it lacked one-pedal driving capability.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The F Sport trim offered enhanced bolstering for the front seats, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and conveniences like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX’s cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,328 litres with the seats folded. Thematic Ambient Illumination added a touch of luxury, although it was not tested during the review.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. With 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, the ID.4 was practical for an entry-level EV. It also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kg and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional centre console lid and improved climate control, enhancing usability.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available as an upgrade. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 10-speaker sound system or an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems offered advanced voice control, while connected services like Drive Connect and User Profiles added convenience. However, the touchscreen was prone to fingerprints and reflections, and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous 10.0-inch screen on lower trims. The infotainment system received software updates for improved responsiveness, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The ID.4’s user interface featured sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, adding a unique touch to the driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX was equipped with the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included features like lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New technologies such as Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection enhanced safety, while the Emergency Driving Stop System provided added security in case of driver incapacitation. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was expected to perform well in IIHS tests, similar to the 2022 model. Standard driver-assist features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. The ID.4 also added Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system for 2023.