2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 underwent subtle styling changes, featuring 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 updates, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance that many buyers find appealing. This design choice was not unique to VW, as other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV also shared a similar aesthetic. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 offered a modular design tailored for EVs, akin to the MQB platform used in various VW models. The interior echoed the quality of VW’s gasoline models, with a minimalist design and standard leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot was fully redesigned, boasting a more rugged and substantial appearance. The fourth-generation model was larger, with an 8.6 cm increase in length, up to 3.8 cm in width, and 2 cm in height compared to its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured a taller ride height, unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a conventional styling approach, prioritizing functionality and versatility. Materials quality met class expectations, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The new Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic that was preferred over the previous generation.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, available with RWD or AWD. The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft 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 kg, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its comfortable and refined ride, 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 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and a pleasant engine sound, with a soft brake pedal suitable for a family SUV. While not encouraging sporty driving, the Pilot handled corners confidently with minimal body roll. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by 2.5 cm and featured all-terrain tires, adding a subtle vibration on pavement. The Pilot excelled in comfort, making it ideal for family duties and off-road adventures, with a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kg.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in front and rear legroom and headroom. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, making it practical among entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in interior space, it delivered notable towing capabilities of 1,000 kg 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 Honda Pilot featured a more conventional interior design, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level Sport trim had a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot offered logical placement of climate and drive mode controls, a large rubberized shelf for phones, and a wireless charging pad. Clever storage solutions included a stowable second-row centre seat, providing a pass-through for third-row passengers. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity reached up to 3,219 litres with the seats folded, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring software updates for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and a choice of display views, but the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive than traditional buttons. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, particularly in the EX-L trim and above, offered a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. The Touring trim added a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was responsive and logically laid out, with features like Honda's CabinTalk for rear-seat communication. The Touring trim also included a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and a remote monitor.

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 Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included 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.

The 2023 Honda Pilot achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added front and rear parking sensors and surround-view camera systems. The advanced safety features functioned reliably, with adaptive cruise control maintaining smooth acceleration and braking. Off-roaders were advised to disable certain proximity warnings to prevent false alarms.