2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Mazda CX-90

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 features. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with other EVs, promising versatility for future models like the ID.Buzz. Inside, the ID.4 offered a minimalist design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres, providing a premium feel even in the base model.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, presented a bold and elegant design, drawing inspiration from smaller Mazda models but on a grander scale. Its imposing presence was marked by a large grille, wide-set front end, and wheels up to 21 inches. Inside, the CX-90 offered a luxurious experience, especially in top trims, with brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic accents. The interior design was sophisticated, rivaling luxury brands, and the CX-90 was available in various trims and seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. Despite its size, the CX-90 managed to maintain a sense of elegance 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 in both RWD and AWD. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft 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 kg, enhancing acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4's handling was not as sharp as its acceleration, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system. The base turbo I6 produced 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the upgraded version in GT-P and Signature trims delivered 340 hp and 369 lb-ft with premium fuel. All models featured AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90 offered three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Off-Road, with noticeable differences in performance. The PHEV combined a 2.5-litre engine with a 17.8-kWh battery, producing 323 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of 42 km. Both powertrains provided impressive handling, with the CX-90 feeling agile despite its size.

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 for an EV. The ID.4 also had a towing capacity of 1,000 kg for RWD models and 1,225 kg 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 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. Cargo space varied depending on the seating arrangement, with up to 2,129 litres available. While it improved on the CX-9's capacity, it still fell short compared to competitors like the Honda Pilot. The CX-90 featured clever storage solutions, including a large centre console and spacious door pockets. The interior was comfortable, with high-quality materials and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the overall experience.

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 as standard. 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, adding a unique touch to the driving experience.

Mazda's approach to technology in the 2024 CX-90 focused on minimizing distractions. The Mazda Connect system used a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen, aiming to keep drivers' eyes on the road. While the intention was sound, the system's complexity could be distracting. However, the CX-90 offered personalization software with facial recognition, adjusting settings to individual profiles. It also supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with touchscreen controls available for these systems.

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 excellent crash test results and advanced front crash prevention. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0, which offered adaptive cruise control and lane centring. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, Mazda's suite of advanced driver assistance systems. This included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The CX-90 Signature trim added cruising and traffic support, combining lane-centring with adaptive cruise control. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the CX-90 was expected to perform well, given the strong safety record of its predecessor, the CX-9.