2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a style that didn't echo the brand's past nor forge a new path. Its rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV allure that has drawn many buyers to this segment. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which added subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the changes were barely noticeable unless compared directly to a standard model. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded us of its position at the lower end of Buick's lineup. The interior design, with its blob-like dashboard, evoked memories of less appealing 1990s automotive styles, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 made subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more aerodynamic rear bumper design. While it was easily distinguishable as an EV, the ID.4 didn't embody the traditional SUV look, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance that typically attract SUV buyers. However, this was a common trait among many electric vehicles. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its underpinnings with a range of models, promising versatility. Inside, it carried over the minimalist design and quality feel of recent VW interiors, with even the base model offering a sense of refinement. Leatherette upholstery made from recycled fibres was standard, and the interior changes for 2023 improved functionality, such as a conventional lid for the centre console and a better phone storage spot.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Despite the specs, the Encore GX felt more powerful, though power delivery wasn't smooth due to the turbocharged engine and transmission setup. The ride was comfortable, with a quiet cabin thanks to Buick's Quiet Tuning package, but the driving experience was marred by ponderous handling and significant body roll, making it feel awkward in most situations.

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, with both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft 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 weight, enhancing acceleration and handling, though the ID.4's handling wasn't as sharp as its acceleration, allowing too much body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but didn't support one-pedal driving, offering a more familiar experience for new EV drivers.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Subaru Crosstrek provided more front legroom, and the Kia Seltos offered more rear-seat space. Cargo capacity was respectable, with 665 litres with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, reducing the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite the limited cabin size, Buick maximized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad. Instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information conveyance, though a button for the 360-degree camera view was missed.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom than the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. Cargo space was substantial, with 858 litres with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, making it practical among affordable EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kg and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 improved functionality, with a conventional lid for the centre console and a better phone storage spot, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional navigation, head-up display, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM were standard, with two front USB ports but none for rear passengers. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with graphics that surpassed many competitors, though the screen size was modest by current standards.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous 10.0-inch screen on lower trims. Software updates improved responsiveness, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The user interface offered sharp graphics and a choice of display views, with natural-language voice recognition simplifying interactions. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive than conventional buttons, though voice recognition often made them unnecessary. The ID.Light system added a unique touch, providing visual cues for navigation and drive modes.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic park assist, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in crash tests but an "Average" score for child-seat anchor ease of use.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in crash tests. While IIHS ratings for 2023 weren't available, the 2022 model received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating. The ID.4 included standard features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, 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.