2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Lexus GX

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 electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. The ID.4 was built on VW’s MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, and shared interior qualities with VW’s gasoline models, offering a minimalist design and quality feel. The base model included leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres, maintaining a high standard even in the entry-level version.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor to embrace a more geometric styling. The spindle grille was less pronounced, and the front fascia featured standard triple-beam LED headlights. The GX’s design was more aggressive, with a flat hood and minimal character lines, enhancing visibility for off-road driving. The GX was available in a single trim with five packages, each catering to different needs, from luxury to off-roading. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions. The GX was positioned as a premium SUV, ready for rugged use, though less luxurious than some competitors like the Land Rover Defender or Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a 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 the vehicle's weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its comfortable ride, the ID.4 exhibited noticeable body roll on twisty roads, limiting its sporty appeal. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more conventional driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque was accessible at low revs, aiding off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission with full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and advanced suspension technology, enhancing off-road capability. The GX demonstrated strong acceleration and effective braking, though its weight of 2,570 kilograms required caution on long descents. Despite its off-road prowess, the GX maintained composure on paved roads.

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. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in interior space, it was practical for an entry-level EV. The ID.4 had a towing capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the centre console and three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a minimalist interior with fewer physical buttons, retaining essential controls for off-road features. It offered comfortable seating for adults in the first and second rows, with 1,047 mm of front legroom and 933 mm in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable only for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring software updates for improved responsiveness. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a digital instrument cluster. 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.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a voice assistant for navigation and climate control. Subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect offered additional features, though they required ongoing payments. The GX included a 10-speaker audio system, with higher packages offering a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo.

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 adaptive cruise control. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety offerings with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. A proactive driving assist feature was also included. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the new GA-F architecture and advanced safety systems suggested improved safety performance.