2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was a rugged take on the traditional Outback, offering a higher stance and a more adventurous aesthetic. With 23 centimetres of ground clearance, it was designed to tackle more challenging terrains, resembling a Jeep more than a station wagon. The Wilderness model featured aggressive all-terrain tires, oversized fender protection, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. Its unique design elements included a distinctive grille, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents, while the exclusive Geyser Blue paint added a touch of exclusivity. Inside, the cabin was dominated by dark grey and black tones, with StarTex water-repellant upholstery and Anodized Copper stitching, creating a robust and functional interior.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 presented a more subtle evolution in its design. The updated model featured gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for better aerodynamics. While it maintained a distinct EV identity, the ID.4 lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. The interior carried over the minimalist design and quality feel from VW's gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres. The ID.4's cabin was spacious, offering more legroom and headroom than many of its EV competitors, and the new centre console design improved functionality. Overall, the ID.4 was a refined and practical choice for those seeking an affordable electric SUV.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided ample power for the midsize crossover, with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a point of contention, as it lacked the engaging feel of a dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Wilderness trim stood out with its all-wheel drive, 23 cm ground clearance, and all-terrain tires, making it the most capable Outback for off-road adventures. It featured improved approach, breakover, and departure angles, along with a dual-function X-Mode traction system for challenging terrains.

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 options for rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The RWD models produced 201 horsepower, while the AWD version increased output to 295 hp, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for energy recovery, but it didn't support one-pedal driving, which might have disappointed some EV enthusiasts. While the ID.4 excelled in acceleration, it allowed too much body roll for spirited driving on twisty roads, making it more suitable for comfortable cruising.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured StarTex water-repellant upholstery, which was practical for outdoor adventures but could become uncomfortable in hot weather. The interior offered generous space, with 920 litres of cargo capacity behind the rear seats and 2,144 litres with them folded. The robust roof rack supported a 700-pound static load, ideal for rooftop camping. The Outback's dual-zone climate control and heated seats provided comfort, while the rear seats offered ample legroom and headroom for passengers.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 boasted more interior space than many affordable EVs, with 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. It offered more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. The ID.4's towing capacity was notable for an entry-level EV, with RWD models capable of towing 1,000 kilograms and AWD models 1,225 kg. The interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and three-zone climate control, enhancing functionality and comfort.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring integrated climate control. While physical knobs and buttons were provided for basic functions, most controls required the touchscreen. The voice recognition system was less intuitive, making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto preferable options. Despite its target demographic, the Outback Wilderness lacked a premium audio system, which was available in other Outback trims.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 upgraded to a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen across all models, with software updates for improved responsiveness. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics, natural-language voice recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel remained a drawback, as they lacked physical feedback. The ID.Light feature provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, adding a touch of innovation to the driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was equipped with the EyeSight suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The system was effective and unobtrusive, maintaining safe distances and lane centring. The Wilderness also featured steering-responsive LED headlights and a blind-spot warning system. While crash-test results for the 2022 model were unavailable, the 2021 Outback received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model earned the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with excellent crash-test results and front crash prevention ratings. The ID.4's standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing the vehicle's safety credentials.