2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward the significant updates from its 2021 predecessor with only minor tweaks. Available in four trim levels in Canada—Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline—the Atlas offered a range of features and pricing from $41,595 to $57,695, excluding a $1,950 destination charge. The Execline trim, which we tested, was the top-tier option, featuring R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its bold, boxy appearance. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, though the use of low-cost materials like hard plastics detracted from its overall quality. The interior's practicality was marred by unlined storage areas that contributed to noise and vibration.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4, based on VW's MEB platform, was distinctively an EV but lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. The interior maintained a minimalist design with a quality feel, featuring leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres. The ID.4's interior changes for 2023 included a more functional centre console and the addition of three-zone climate control. Despite its EV nature, the ID.4 offered a spacious cabin with more legroom and headroom than many of its competitors.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an optional 3.6-litre V6. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms and a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Despite its power, the V6's performance was considered leisurely, and its fuel consumption was higher at 12.2 L/100 km. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations, but its ride quality was criticized for being busy and noisy.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model with RWD or AWD. The RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the 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 reduced curb weight, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for coasting in its default setting, with a more aggressive "B" setting available. While the ID.4's acceleration was competitive, its handling was less engaging due to body roll, though it provided a comfortable and refined driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, making entry and exit easy, and the test vehicle included rear side-window sunshades. The Atlas offered exceptional cargo space, with 583 litres behind the third row, 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down. However, the unlined storage areas caused items to slide and create noise.

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 and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was 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 ID.4 also featured three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The Trendline trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic connectivity features, while other trims included the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender audio system on the Execline. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 upgraded to a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen with software updates for improved responsiveness. It retained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The user interface included sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, but the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were criticized for 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.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and an adaptive front lighting system. However, the Lane Assist technology was problematic, misinterpreting road markings and causing distractions. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with four-star ratings in frontal-impact tests from the 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. While IIHS ratings for 2023 were unavailable, the 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.