2024 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colours were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. Despite being an EV, the ID.4 didn't have a traditional SUV appearance, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance typical of SUVs. This design choice was similar to other EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared modularity with other models, promising versatility. Inside, it retained the minimalist design and quality feel of VW’s gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX, inspired by the 2022 Wildcat concept, boasted a refreshed look with sleek daytime running lights and angular LED headlamps. The Avenir trim featured a unique grille and chrome trim, while the rear received new LED tail lights on higher trims. The Encore GX offered vibrant colour options, including a striking Copper Ice Metallic. Inside, the most notable change was a 19-inch glass panel housing the digital gauge cluster and touchscreen, giving a premium look despite some cheap-feeling plastics. Standard features included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with options for a Bose audio system and moonroof.

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 RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD version increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced weight by 109 kg, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its power, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll for spirited driving. Regenerative braking was present but didn’t support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional experience for newcomers to EVs.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX retained its powertrain options, with a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine in Canada producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Encore GX accelerated to 100 km/h in about nine seconds, though highway passing required patience due to delayed downshifts. The selectable AWD system allowed for fuel-saving FWD operation, though competitors offered automatic AWD engagement. The Encore GX excelled as a city car with a smooth suspension, but its performance was more subdued compared to rivals.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf in legroom and headroom. Cargo capacity was generous, with 858 litres behind the rear seats and 1,818 litres with seats folded. While it didn’t match gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in space, it was practical for an EV. Towing capacity was modest, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kg and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates included a conventional centre console lid and improved phone storage.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX, as a subcompact SUV, offered 665 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,422 litres with seats folded. It could accommodate items up to eight feet long with the front seat folded. Standard features included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with options for a Bose audio system and moonroof. Towing capacity was limited to 453 kg, but a hands-free liftgate was available for convenience.

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, alongside the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and voice recognition, though 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 2024 Buick Encore GX featured an 11-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital gauge cluster under one glass pane. While visually appealing, much of the screen space was unused. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt outlet. The rear camera mirror offered a wider view, and the infotainment system was straightforward, focusing on essential features without additional apps.

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 a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS, with high ratings 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 and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX came with the Driver Confidence package, including lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Rear park assist, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera were optional. Unique features included Teen Driver, which monitored young drivers, and Buckle to Drive, preventing gear shifts without seatbelt use. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, though IIHS ratings for 2024 were pending.