2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

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. However, this was a common trait among many electric vehicles, such as 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, similar to the MQB platform used for various VW gasoline vehicles. The interior retained the quality and minimalist design seen in recent VW models, with leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres as standard. The base model offered a manual driver’s seat but did not feel significantly downgraded from higher trims, maintaining a sense of quality throughout.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality in its design, which, while bordering on boring, aged well, especially with upgraded wheels. The GLS 450 test vehicle boasted 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and lustrous paint. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment.

The GLS 450, the most affordable version, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle included AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, an Acoustic Comfort Package, and leather upholstery. The second-row captain’s chairs were a no-charge option, and the GLS 450 started at $116,100 in Canada, with dealers setting their own destination charges and fees.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack, available in both RWD and all-wheel drive (AWD). The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD version increased output to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its comfortable and refined ride, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll for truly engaging driving on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, provided smooth and seamless acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 pound-feet of torque, enhancing responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD system offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms and a fuel economy rating of 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably under duress.

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 had a towing capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kilograms for AWD models. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage, along with three-zone climate control and heated rear seats.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but posed challenges when entering or exiting the vehicle. The front seats offered comfort with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The new steering wheel was pleasant to grip, though its touch-sensing controls could be irritating. The GLS provided heated rear seats, four-zone climate control, and optional captain’s chairs. Accessing the third row was cumbersome, and space was snug for adults. Cargo space was practical, with 355 litres behind the third row, 1,209 litres behind the second row, and 2,400 litres behind the front seats.

The 2023 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, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The user interface included sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were distracting. The ID.Light feature provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and various themes, though touch-sensitive areas on the steering wheel and centre console caused frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality for navigation.

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 received the IIHS’s highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their subtle and smooth operation. The forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems were effective without being intrusive. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems handled various driving conditions with ease.