2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Mazda CX-30

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 its electric vehicle (EV) identity, the ID.4 did not exhibit the traditional SUV characteristics such as an upright profile and increased ground clearance, which could be a drawback for those attracted to conventional SUV styling. However, this was a common trait among many EVs, like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV.

The ID.4 was built on VW’s MEB platform, specifically designed for EVs, offering modularity to support various models. This platform was akin to the MQB platform used in VW’s gasoline vehicles. The interior of the ID.4 carried over the minimalist design and quality feel from VW’s gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery and recycled fibre inserts as standard. The base model, despite having a manual driver’s seat, did not feel significantly downgraded compared to higher trims.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 was available in four trims in Canada, each with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The design was artful yet appeared nose-heavy due to its long hood and stubby rear end, with excessive grey body cladding emphasizing its SUV identity. The GT Turbo model's black wheels were nearly invisible against the dark lower body.

Inside, the CX-30 offered an upscale cabin with quality materials. Lower trims had cloth seats, while higher trims featured leather or leatherette upholstery. The GT Turbo model boasted a luxurious interior with off-white leather and a chocolate brown centre console. Despite its premium pricing, the CX-30's interior resembled that of an entry-level luxury SUV.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack, available in both RWD and all-wheel drive (AWD). The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD variant 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 by 109 kg, enhancing acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4's handling was not as sharp as its acceleration, allowing too much body roll on twisty roads. The regenerative braking system did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured a base 2.0-litre engine with 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. The GS and GT models had a 2.5-litre engine with 191 hp and 186 lb-ft, while the GT Turbo offered a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine producing 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard, with a Sport mode available. The GT Turbo provided robust acceleration and a thrilling driving experience, although the powertrain could be caught off-guard in traffic. The CX-30's fuel economy was improved, but its small fuel tank limited range. The suspension offered compliance, making the CX-30 enjoyable on winding roads, but less so over speed bumps.

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 compared to other entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also had a towing capacity 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 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. Heated front seats and rain-sensing wipers were standard in Canada, with a heated steering wheel available from the GS trim. The front passenger seat offered limited adjustment, and rear legroom was tight. The CX-30 provided reasonable storage space, with a centre armrest, glove compartment, and door bins. Cargo space was 572 litres with the seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded, which was modest for its class.

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 natural-language voice recognition, but the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system lacked a touchscreen, relying on centre console controls that required visual reference. The system's voice recognition was not conversational, and the absence of a tuning knob was inconvenient. Despite these flaws, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated, with pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. All models included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports, with higher trims adding SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system.

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 earned the IIHS’s “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with high scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 was rated a "Top Safety Pick" by the IIHS, with improved side-impact protection and standard rear side airbags. Standard safety features in Canada included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with higher trims adding adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. The GT and GT Turbo trims offered advanced features like a surround-view camera and head-up display. The driving assistance systems generally worked well, though the forward-collision warning system was overly sensitive in some situations.