2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer

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 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 was designed specifically for EVs, offering modularity to support various models. The interior retained the minimalist design and quality feel of VW’s gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery and recycled fibre inserts as standard features.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer, reintroduced in 2021, marked a departure from its predecessor with a more compact size and aggressive styling reminiscent of the sporty Camaro. For 2024, the Trailblazer received a minor refresh, enhancing its sporty theme with thinner accent lights, a reshaped grille, and smaller, deeper-set headlights. Inside, the dashboard was updated with a digital instrument panel and a larger 11-inch touchscreen, offering a modern look. While the materials used were typical for non-luxury subcompact SUVs, the Trailblazer provided adequate padding at touchpoints and fabric inserts in the door panels for a more inviting space. The interior layout was similar to the Volkswagen Taos, with a focus on practicality and comfort.

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 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 comfortable ride, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll for spirited driving. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two powertrains: a base 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT, and a more powerful 1.3-litre turbocharged engine with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The latter provided better performance, but acceleration remained sluggish, with a 0 to 100 km/h time exceeding nine seconds. The Trailblazer's handling was average, prioritizing comfort over performance. It smoothed out road imperfections and kept noise levels low, but lacked the engaging driving dynamics of some competitors.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more front and rear legroom than the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. 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 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered ample front space and excellent visibility, with a wireless charging pad, cupholders, and storage options enhancing practicality. The front seats were firm yet comfortable, with heated options available on most trims. Rear seats provided generous legroom and headroom, accommodating adult passengers and rear-facing infant seats. Cargo space was competitive, with 716 litres available behind the rear seats, nearly matching the Hyundai Kona. The Trailblazer also featured a hands-free power liftgate with adjustable opening height for added convenience.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved responsiveness and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system featured 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 assistance, but could be easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen standard across all trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system had a slight delay in response, but the display was well-positioned for reduced distraction. A native navigation system was absent, relying on smartphone connectivity for directions. The base audio system was adequate, with an optional Bose upgrade available. Overall, the Trailblazer's technology offerings were average for the class, focusing on ease of use.

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, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and top scores from the IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Confidence package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control was available on certain trims. While the Trailblazer's safety features performed well, some rivals offered more standard equipment.