2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 continued the legacy of a vehicle that had evolved significantly since its North American debut in 1996. Initially introduced as a compact alternative to the larger SUVs dominating the market, the RAV4 quickly gained popularity among young buyers. Over five generations, it expanded in size and sophistication, transcending its "cute ute" origins to become a leading crossover SUV. The 2022 model, a continuation of the 2019 redesign, frequently topped SUV sales charts in Canada. Its exterior design, while blending with the current crossover aesthetic, featured distinctive angular flourishes and expressive headlights, creating a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, a user-friendly touchscreen interface, and unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 underwent 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 easily distinguishable as an EV but lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. Despite this, it offered a minimalist interior design with a quality feel, even in the base model. The ID.4's interior changes for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage. It provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample legroom and headroom, and a competitive cargo capacity. The ID.4 also offered some towing capability, although it was modest compared to traditional SUVs.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. Fuel economy varied, with FWD models achieving 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and impressive fuel economy of 5.8 L/100 km in the city. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid was the most powerful, with 302 horsepower and the ability to run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. It featured a 3.3-kilowatt on-board charger, with a 6.6-kW option for faster charging. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model. The single electric 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 smaller battery pack reduced curb weight, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for energy recovery, but it didn't offer 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.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered a spacious interior with 1,059 litres of luggage space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with different models rated for varying towing weights. Inside, the RAV4 provided comfortable seating for four, with ample legroom and storage options. The XLE grade added features like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with generous legroom and headroom. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,818 litres with the seats folded. While it fell short of traditional gasoline crossovers in terms of interior space, it was practical for an entry-level EV. The ID.4 also had some towing capability, with RWD models rated for 1,000 kilograms and AWD models for 1,225 kilograms. Interior changes for 2023 improved functionality, with a conventional lid for the centre console and better phone storage.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and additional features like navigation and Safety Connect. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a bird's-eye view camera system.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen with software updates for improved responsiveness. It retained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel remained a concern, as they lacked physical feedback. The ID.4 also featured ID.Light, an ambient lighting system that provided visual cues for navigation.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota's Star Safety System, including features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also offered Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The RAV4 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. While IIHS ratings for the 2023 model weren't available, the 2022 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. For 2023, it added Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.