2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a 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. This design choice was similar to other electric vehicles 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 various models, including the upcoming ID.Buzz electric van. Inside, the ID.4 boasted a minimalist design with quality materials, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres as standard. The base model, despite having a manual driver’s seat, did not feel like a significant downgrade from higher trims.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 aimed to distinguish itself from cars with its excessive charcoal-coloured plastic cladding, which some found excessive. However, the overall design was appealing, featuring short overhangs, a long hood, sculpted flanks, and a rakish roofline. The interior exuded a sense of luxury, with clear gauges, a well-integrated infotainment screen, and artistic climate controls. In Canada, the CX-30 offered four trims with two engine options: a 191-hp 2.5-litre four-cylinder for the GX, GS, and GT trims, and a turbocharged version with up to 250 hp for the Suna models. The test vehicle, in Suna trim, sported a unique Zircon Sand paint over Terracotta and Black interior, a colour combination that divided opinions but worked well on SUVs.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD, while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack, available in both RWD and AWD. The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD version increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 109 kg, 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 traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, with its turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, produced 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, though power delivery was tuned for a gradual build. The six-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, and the standard AWD system distributed power effectively. However, fuel economy was a downside, with observed consumption at 13.3 L/100 km, limiting range to 360 km with a full tank. The CX-30 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a nimble and connected ride, with excellent visibility and standard safety features enhancing the driving experience. Despite feeling soft in the mountains, it handled back roads with enthusiasm.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered generous interior space, surpassing competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf in legroom and headroom. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 858 litres available with 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 affordable EV. Towing capacity was modest, with RWD models capable of towing 1,000 kg and AWD models 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional centre console lid and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 featured a well-designed interior with quality materials and logical controls. The three-gauge digital instrumentation and traditional shifter were user-friendly, while gloss black trim and metallic accents added sophistication. Front seats were comfortable, with power adjustments available on higher trims, but rear-seat space was limited. Cargo space was practical, with 572 litres behind the back seat and 1,280 litres with seats folded. The flexible load floor allowed for additional storage options, making it a practical choice for a small SUV.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous 10.0-inch screen on lower trims. The infotainment system received software updates for improved responsiveness, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remaining standard. The user interface featured 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 easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 GT and Suna trims featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring platforms. However, the screen's distance from the driver and passenger limited its usability. Mazda's approach to reducing driver distraction included static displays and voice controls, though the lack of natural voice recognition was a drawback. All CX-30s in Canada included a two-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, with GT and Suna trims offering USB-C ports, a wireless charger, and a Bose audio system.

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, similar to the 2023 version, 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, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, with additional features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control available on higher trims. GT and Suna models offered advanced safety features, including adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and a traffic jam assist system. The CX-30 earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating, and was recognized as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.