2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Porsche Macan

The 2022 Porsche Macan continued to embody the brand's commitment to performance and luxury, maintaining its sleek and athletic design that had evolved subtly since its introduction in 2015. The model received a fresh styling update, featuring larger standard wheels and a revamped interior with a new centre console that incorporated haptic touch controls, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The Macan S, our test vehicle, showcased a sophisticated Volcano Gray exterior paired with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, exuding a sporty yet upscale vibe. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, with a driver-focused layout that included a left-side ignition switch and a large central tachometer, complemented by red leather and metallic accents for a luxurious feel.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 presented a more modern and minimalist approach, with subtle styling changes that included gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4's design was distinctly EV, lacking the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. However, it offered a spacious interior with more legroom and headroom than many of its EV competitors, and a substantial cargo capacity of 858 litres with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,818 litres when folded. The interior updates for 2023 included a more functional centre console and the addition of three-zone climate control, enhancing the overall practicality of the vehicle.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of powertrains, with the base Macan and Macan T featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Macan S, our test vehicle, was equipped with a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. All Macans came with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fully variable AWD system, enhancing their performance capabilities. The Macan S also featured larger 20-inch wheels and Porsche Active Suspension Management, providing a balance of comfort and agility on various road conditions.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, available with either RWD or AWD. The single-motor RWD models produced 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 driving dynamics were comfortable and refined, though it allowed more body roll compared to sportier vehicles. The regenerative braking system offered a familiar driving experience, with the option to coast or use a more aggressive setting, but it lacked the one-pedal driving feature found in some other EVs.

The 2022 Porsche Macan provided a comfortable experience for the driver and front passenger, with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats offering heating and ventilation. However, the rear seats were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls added a modern touch, though it required the driver to look away from the road to operate. Cargo space was limited to 488 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded, accommodating four full-size suitcases without the cargo cover.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than many of its EV competitors. With 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, it provided ample room for storage. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with a capacity of 1,000 kg for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a more functional centre console and the addition of three-zone climate control, enhancing the vehicle's practicality and comfort.

The 2022 Porsche Macan featured a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Porsche Communication Management, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and a navigation system. The system included touch-sensing virtual buttons and proximity sensing, though the voice recognition system was less reliable compared to competitors. The Macan also provided stereo volume and tuning controls separate from the touchscreen, allowing for easier access to frequently adjusted features.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system received software updates for improved responsiveness, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel remained a point of contention due to their lack of physical feedback. The ID.4 also featured ID.Light, an ambient lighting system that provided visual cues for navigation and drive modes, adding a unique touch to the driving experience.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included standard lane-departure warning and a reversing camera, with optional features such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. While these technologies performed as expected, the Macan lacked more advanced driving assistance features. Parking assistance was available with optional Park Assist, offering automated steering for parallel and perpendicular parking.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was expected to maintain its IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0 with adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring. The ID.4 also added Park Assist Plus and a 360-degree camera system for 2023, enhancing its safety credentials.