2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After its acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, Volvo developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its design elements, such as the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights, paid homage to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 offered a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim, and luxurious details like a crystal gear selector. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its leather-free initiative, although Nappa leather remained an option for those desiring ventilated seats.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. While it was distinguishable as an EV, 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 shared its underpinnings with other EVs, offering modularity for various models. The interior retained VW's minimalist design, with quality materials and a focus on functionality. Leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres was standard, and the ID.4 provided ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice among affordable EVs.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 10.1 L/100 km combined, the T6 at 10.8 L/100 km, and the Recharge offering an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode. The Recharge's electric range extended up to 58 kilometres. The XC90 delivered a superb driving experience, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with rear-wheel drive, while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack with options for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The single-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, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's driving dynamics were comfortable and refined, though it allowed more body roll than some competitors. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might have found it lacking in legroom. The XC90 provided 357 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it versatile for various needs. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme weather conditions, and the XC90 was equipped for both summer and winter driving.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than many affordable EVs. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,818 litres with them folded. While it fell short of some gasoline crossovers in terms of space, it was practical among entry-level EVs. The ID.4 offered towing capabilities of up to 1,225 kilograms for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional centre console lid and improved phone storage. Three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated rear seats was also available.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality. While intuitive, the system was occasionally slow, but Apple CarPlay improved its performance. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided customization options, and the Advanced package added a head-up display and 360-degree camera system. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims, and the XC90 included multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved software responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system featured sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, though it could be easily overlooked.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. Volvo's Pilot Assist system offered assisted driving capabilities on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. While IIHS ratings for 2023 were pending, the 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation. 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 and an automated lane-change feature.