2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Subaru Ascent

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 that many buyers find appealing. This design choice was not unique to VW, as other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV also blurred the lines between hatchbacks and SUVs. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with a range of models, including the upcoming ID.Buzz electric van. Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist and quality-focused design of recent VW interiors, with leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres as standard.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Ascent struggled with its styling, particularly after a refresh that added visually unappealing elements like tusks and a spear-like grille design. The Canadian lineup remained unchanged, offering trims from Convenience to Premier, with prices ranging from $44,674 to $57,674. The Premier trim, tested in the U.S. version, included features like a panoramic sunroof, premium Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a surround-view camera. The interior design was functional but lacked sophistication, resembling a modular assembly. Despite this, the quality of materials was commendable, and the Ascent offered practical features like a dashboard shelf, large cupholders, and backpack pegs, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, available with RWD or 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 hp and 339 lb-ft 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 exhibited noticeable body roll on twisty roads, limiting its handling capabilities. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a CVT and standard AWD with active torque vectoring, allowing for a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. The Ascent excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road trails, and handled speed humps and gravel roads with ease. However, its performance on twisty mountain roads was limited by its weight, suspension tuning, and all-season tires. Fuel economy was a concern, with ratings of 12.3 L/100 km in the city and 9.4 on the highway, and actual test results showing higher consumption. The Ascent's boxer engine provided good power but was accompanied by a characteristic grumble.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered generous interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in front and rear legroom and headroom. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, making it practical for an EV. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in terms of interior space, it was a standout among entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kilograms and AWD models up to 1,225 kilograms. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage, along with three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent prioritized function, featuring practical elements like a dashboard shelf, large cupholders, and backpack pegs. The Premier trim offered comfortable Nappa leather seats, though the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster. The rear doors opened wide, facilitating easy loading of children and cargo. The Ascent's roof rails supported a static load of 317 kilograms, suitable for a rooftop tent. While the second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable, legroom was slightly limited. The third-row seats were suitable for short trips, with air conditioning vents and storage space. Cargo space was ample, with 458 litres behind the third row and up to 2,140 litres with seats folded.

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 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, but could be easily overlooked.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent featured the Starlink infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims included navigation and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. While the system functioned well, the display was prone to washing out in sunlight, and the native voice-recognition system was subpar. Physical buttons and knobs were available for common functions, and Cabin Connect allowed the driver to communicate with passengers through the stereo speakers.

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 a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with high ratings 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 Subaru Ascent was built on a high-strength steel platform and equipped with the EyeSight safety suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. It received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. However, the lane-centring assist was criticized for its performance. Blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking were available on higher trims, and a Driver Focus system with facial recognition was optional.