2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a refined design, riding on the robust Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. This platform was shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models, ensuring a solid foundation. The Venza's dimensions placed it on the smaller side of the midsize crossover SUV segment, yet it boasted a sleek, modern exterior that could easily fit into the Lexus lineup. Its design featured a distinctive scalloped body side and a prominent nose, emphasizing a more urban-friendly aesthetic. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout, providing comfort and support for both front and rear passengers.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, meanwhile, introduced subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more aerodynamic rear bumper. Despite its EV identity, the ID.4 lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 was designed specifically for electric vehicles, offering a minimalist interior with a quality feel. The interior changes for 2023 improved functionality, with a new centre console lid and better phone storage. The ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing many other affordable EVs, and offered some towing capability, making it a practical choice for those seeking an electric SUV.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering a combined 219 horsepower. This hybrid setup allowed for a balance between electric and gas drive, optimizing efficiency and performance. The Venza offered an AWD drivetrain, with electric motors at the rear axle providing power. Drivers could choose from Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the lithium-ion battery. The Venza's performance was sprightly and agile, with a ride quality that suited its role as a midsize family hauler.

In contrast, 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, with RWD or AWD options. 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 hp and 339 lb-ft 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 coasting in its default setting, providing a familiar experience for EV newcomers.

The 2022 Toyota Venza accommodated five passengers with two front bucket seats and a 60/40-split folding second-row bench. The interior offered good headroom and legroom, with the second row providing 114.8 cm of hip room. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass sunroof. The Venza's cargo capacity was impressive, with 816 litres behind the second row and up to 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, using sound-blocking materials throughout.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than many other affordable EVs. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 also offered some towing capability, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kg and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a new centre console lid and improved phone storage, along with three-zone climate control and heated rear seats.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure, making it convenient for those without access to home charging. The Venza's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while higher trims offered a 12.3-inch screen, JBL audio system, and a head-up display. Toyota Connected Services provided various connectivity options, and the Venza's technology suite included a Predicted Efficient Drive program to optimize battery charging.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved software responsiveness. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a choice of smartphone-like icons or a split-screen view. The ID.4's user interface featured haptic touchpads, which could be distracting, but voice recognition helped mitigate this issue. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, adding a unique touch to the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System, featuring stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. It included eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, offering forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in crash tests. While IIHS ratings for 2023 were not 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, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and an automated lane-change feature.