2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

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, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which could be a drawback for those attracted to conventional SUV aesthetics. However, this was a common trait among many electric vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between SUV and hatchback.

Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with a range of models, similar to the MQB platform used in VW’s gasoline vehicles. The interior echoed the quality and minimalist design of recent VW models, offering a sense of refinement even in the base model. Leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts was standard, and the interior changes for 2023 included a more functional centre console and the availability of three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a long-standing name in the automotive world, continued to blend into traffic despite its massive size. Measuring 5,733 millimetres in length and 1,923 millimetres in height, the Suburban was not for everyone, especially those navigating urban environments. However, it catered to a specific market needing ample cargo and passenger space, as well as towing capacity. Available in six trims, the Suburban offered a range of features, from basic niceties to luxurious options, although some high-end features remained optional even on top trims.

Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, with leather upholstery standard on all but the base trim. The High Country trim, which was tested, featured a heated steering wheel, tri-zone climate control, and supportive seats, though they lacked the comfort expected for long journeys. Despite its size, the Suburban’s interior felt somewhat pedestrian, with a focus on practicality over luxury.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, available with RWD or AWD. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD variant increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling, though the ID.4 still allowed too much body roll for spirited driving.

Regenerative braking was standard, but VW opted against one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional coasting experience. This might have disappointed some EV enthusiasts but provided a familiar feel for newcomers. The ID.4 excelled in comfort and refinement, making it suitable for long drives, though it lacked the handling prowess of hot hatchbacks.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban came with three engine options: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel six-cylinder with 277 hp and 460 lb-ft. The 5.3-litre V8 was the most common, offering a towing capacity of up to 3,765 kilograms with the Max Trailering Package. The 6.2-litre V8 provided more effortless acceleration, while the diesel engine delivered better fuel economy and similar towing capabilities.

The Suburban’s 10-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, though the electronic button-style shift mechanism might have annoyed some drivers. RWD was standard on lower trims, with 4WD available on higher trims. The Suburban’s steering and brakes were up to the task, and the height-adjustable air suspension handled rough roads well, though its size meant some body roll was inevitable.

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 terms of interior space, it was a practical choice among affordable EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kilograms and AWD models up to 1,225 kilograms.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 1,175 litres behind the third row, 2,656 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 4,097 litres. These figures surpassed competitors like the Ford Expedition Max and Jeep Wagoneer L, making the Suburban ideal for families needing ample space for road trips and towing. The Suburban also featured a 106-litre fuel tank, allowing for over 1,000 kilometres of highway driving between fill-ups with the diesel engine.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring updated software 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, though 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 2024 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen on all but the base trim, which had an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system included Google Built-in, allowing access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store without a phone. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were also included. A rear-seat entertainment system was available as an option, though the 10-speaker Bose audio system lacked the richness of higher-end systems.

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 received the IIHS’s highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with top scores in all crash tests and high ratings for front crash prevention. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0, among others.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crash tests, five in side-crash tests, and three in rollover tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and Chevy’s Teen Driver feature. Higher trims offered additional features like rear cross-traffic alert and Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system.