2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by eliminating the third row from the standard Atlas model, lowering the roofline by nearly 6 centimetres, and shortening the SUV’s length by 13.2 cm. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the reduced cargo space, with 1,141 litres behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 2,203 litres, was a trade-off for its sporty, coupe-like appearance. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, emphasized a bold and upscale look, although the base Comfortline trim's 18-inch wheels seemed undersized for the vehicle's design. The interior offered a variety of appealing colour combinations, but the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design. While it was easily recognizable as an EV, the ID.4 lacked the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared a modular design with other EVs, promising versatility. The interior maintained a minimalist design with a quality feel, and the base model offered leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts. The ID.4's design changes for 2023 improved functionality, such as a conventional lid for the centre console and a better phone storage spot.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, which did not require premium fuel, provided a more satisfying driving experience and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The V6 engine in the Atlas Cross Sport Execline trim felt more energetic than in the larger Atlas, although the ride quality was harsh at lower speeds and too soft at higher speeds. The suspension struggled with urban and suburban road conditions, and the vehicle's float and wallow were noticeable.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 introduced a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model, available only with rear-wheel drive (RWD). The Pro model retained the 82-kWh battery pack, offering both RWD and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD powertrain 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 by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for coasting in its default setting, with a more aggressive "B" setting for increased energy recovery. However, the lack of one-pedal driving might have disappointed some EV enthusiasts.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and track width with the larger seven-passenger model, offering an exceptionally roomy interior for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. A panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while rear side-window sunshades provided comfort for passengers. The cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, offered ample space for luggage and other items, with additional storage under the load floor.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with greater front-seat and rear-seat legroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. The ID.4 offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with the seats folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in terms of interior space, it was a practical choice among affordable EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with a capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kilograms for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Comfortline came standard with a 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system in the Execline trim. While the technology offered essential features, the user experience was often frustrating, with issues related to touchscreen interaction and voice recognition. Pairing a smartphone and using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was recommended for a smoother experience.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen across all models, with software updates to improve responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. Despite the updates, the infotainment system's user experience was hindered by haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel, which lacked physical feedback. The ID.Light system, part ambient lighting and part AI assistant, provided visual cues for navigation and drive modes, although it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and an automatic post-collision braking system. Higher trims added adaptive LED headlights, a semi-autonomous Park Assist system, and an Area View 360-degree camera system. While Travel Assist provided accurate and sophisticated assistance, it occasionally lacked refinement. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model, similar to the 2023 version, earned the IIHS’s highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. For 2023, the ID.4 added Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.