2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Hyundai Tucson

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 buyers seeking those attributes. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with other EVs, promising versatility across various models. Inside, the ID.4 boasted a minimalist design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres, offering a premium feel even in the base model.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson, introduced in its fourth generation in 2022, carried over its striking design with taut angles and unique features like headlights integrated into the grille. This design choice created a contemporary and sharp look, even in less photogenic colours like white. The Tucson’s athletic presence was complemented by its distinct styling, setting it apart from other brands that often scale designs across models. Inside, the Tucson offered a modern and refined cabin with a focus on technology, though some controls, like the touch-capacitive volume buttons, were less user-friendly. The Tucson’s trim levels ranged from Preferred to Ultimate, each adding features like larger wheels, upgraded lighting, and advanced driver assistance technologies.

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 RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet 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 curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its power, the ID.4’s handling was less sporty, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but didn’t support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Preferred came with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled with highway acceleration and produced significant noise. More powerful hybrid options were available, but they featured a button-style shifter that required acclimatization. The Tucson excelled in handling and ride quality, offering a comfortable and precise driving experience, though it wasn’t as athletic as some competitors like the Mazda CX-5.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in 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 for an EV. The ID.4 also had a towing capacity of up to 1,225 kilograms for AWD models. Interior updates included a conventional centre console lid and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson offered up to 2,119 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 1,097 litres with them in use, making it competitive in the compact SUV segment. The Tucson featured a hands-free power liftgate on higher trims, activated by proximity rather than foot movement. It accommodated five passengers comfortably, with spacious seating in both rows. The cabin included deep cup holders and a centre tray with a wireless charging pad.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring improved software responsiveness and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and 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 easy to overlook.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with a digital instrument panel. While the system was intuitive, it lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The haptic volume toggle was less user-friendly, but the interface worked with gloves, which was beneficial in cold weather. Hyundai’s remote start system allowed for seamless vehicle operation once inside.

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, and adaptive cruise control. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and an automated lane-change feature.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson came with standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. The Ultimate trim added parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and Smart Park remote-parking. The Tucson received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for 2023, with “Good” crash test scores and “Superior” crash-prevention technology.