2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Dodge Hornet

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 identity, the ID.4 did not possess the traditional SUV look, 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 its modularity with a range of models, including the upcoming ID.Buzz electric van. Inside, the ID.4 maintained a minimalist design with quality materials, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts as standard. The base model, despite having a manual driver’s seat, did not feel like a significant downgrade from higher trims.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet, while not a traditional V8 muscle car, retained Dodge’s distinctive styling with a muscular front end and integrated heat extractors on the hood. The grille featured a large opening at the bottom and a smaller "mail slot" in the middle, with the new Rhombi logo prominently displayed. The tail lamp extended across the width of the crossover, with oversized tailpipes emphasizing its performance credentials. Available in four trims, the Hornet shared visual similarities with the Alfa Romeo Tonale but maintained classic Dodge design elements. The interior, influenced by its Italian sibling, offered a modern feel with Alcantara upholstery and a driver-focused centre stack. The steering wheel, though well-sized, had buttons that felt outdated, and the seats, while stylish, were heavily bolstered, potentially uncomfortable for some buyers.

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 in both RWD and 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, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its hot hatchback-like acceleration, the ID.4’s handling was less engaging due to body roll. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more conventional experience for new EV drivers.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet came with different powertrains across its trims. The GT model featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The R/T model, a PHEV, combined a 1.3-litre turbo engine with a 15.5-kWh battery and two electric motors, delivering 288 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The R/T’s electric AWD system and six-speed automatic transmission distinguished it from the GT. Despite its heavier weight, the R/T was quick, with a Sport mode and a "Powershot" feature for an extra 30 horsepower. The suspension balanced comfort and handling, while the steering was precise but heavy. The R/T offered an all-electric range of 53 kilometres, with a fuel economy of 3.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode.

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 entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also had a towing capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kilograms 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 2024 Dodge Hornet prioritized front passenger comfort, with good headroom and visibility. However, the rear seat felt cramped due to the high beltline and dark interior. The R/T’s PHEV battery reduced cargo capacity, offering 648 litres behind the rear seat and 1,430 litres with it folded, compared to the GT’s 764 and 1,549 litres, respectively. Both fell short of competitors like the Hyundai Tucson PHEV.

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, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet boasted a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with UConnect 5, offering a user-friendly and customizable experience. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, with a premium Harman Kardon audio system and wireless phone charger available. The system was easy to personalize, allowing users to set up dedicated profiles and widgets.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for the 2022 model. It included standard driver-assist features like 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 2024 Dodge Hornet had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The optional Tech Pack added level 2 autonomous driving functions, enhancing safety and convenience.