2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colours were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. Despite these changes, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance compared to VW's gasoline models but lacked the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which could be a drawback for buyers seeking those attributes. The ID.4 was built on VW's MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, offering a modular approach similar to the MQB platform used in other VW models. The interior boasted a minimalist design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres, providing a premium feel even in the base model.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, offered a practical alternative to SUVs with its minivan design. The Limited trim with the S Appearance Package added body-coloured door handles, gloss black grille surround, and black accents, complemented by 18-inch wheels. The split grille was flanked by LED headlamps, and LED tail lamps spanned the rear. While minivans lacked the SUV's cool factor, they provided practicality with sliding doors and ample cargo space. The interior of the Limited trim featured a dark theme with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dash design. However, the proximity of the HVAC and audio knobs to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD, while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack, available in both RWD and AWD. 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 hp and 339 lb-ft 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. Despite its sprightly performance, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll for truly engaging driving on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 51 kilometres of all-electric range and 784 kilometres of total range. In testing, it achieved 53 km of electric range and 885 km of total range. Charging the battery on a Level 2 home charger took two hours, while a standard outlet required 14 hours. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode before switching to hybrid operation, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The plug-in hybrid model was FWD only, lacked a spare tire, and couldn't be equipped with a towing package. The Pacifica Hybrid delivered 260 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque, with a smooth CVT and light steering.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front and rear legroom and headroom. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in interior space, it was practical for an affordable EV. The ID.4 had a towing capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The interior included heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and comfortable seating, though taller passengers might find the second-row seats low. The centre pathway allowed easy access to the spacious third row. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement, reducing versatility. Cargo space remained at 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with seats folded, and 3,978 litres with everything down. However, competitors like the Kia Carnival and Honda Odyssey offered more space.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous 10.0-inch screen on lower trims. The infotainment system received software updates for improved responsiveness, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. The user interface included sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light feature provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, but it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, known for its user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with the ability to connect two phones via Bluetooth. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, offering apps and games, though it was an expensive addition. The Pacifica Hybrid had numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, a 115-volt outlet, auxiliary ports, and wireless charging, ensuring devices remained charged.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in frontal and side crash tests and four stars in rollover tests. The 2022 model earned the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. 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, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system provided visual and audible alerts, while the adaptive cruise control system offered smooth braking and acceleration. Some features, like parallel parking assist, required additional packages or the top Hybrid Pinnacle trim. The 2022 Pacifica Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and Average grades for headlights and LATCH ease of use.