2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 underwent subtle styling changes, featuring 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 updates, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance that many buyers find appealing. 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 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 Subaru Crosstrek, while similar in appearance to its predecessor, featured new sheet metal, a new chassis, and additional colour options like Sun Blaze and Offshore Blue. The wheelbase and overall length remained nearly unchanged, but the Crosstrek boasted a steeper departure angle and slightly reduced cargo space. The base trim came with 17-inch alloy wheels and 22 centimetres of ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road adventures. The Crosstrek’s front fascia had a unique design with LED headlights and a wing bar, giving it a distinctive look. The vehicle also featured black plastic cladding with air inlets and outlets for improved aerodynamics. The split taillight design allowed for wider trunk access, and the Wilderness trim added unique exterior elements and increased ground clearance.

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 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. 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 Subaru Crosstrek featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine on the Onyx, Limited, and Wilderness trims, producing 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The Touring trim, tested with a 2.0-litre engine, delivered 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. The Crosstrek’s performance was modest, with the CVT providing smooth power delivery and simulated shift points. The Wilderness trim offered different gearing for off-road capability and increased towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. The updated 2.0-litre engine reduced vibration, and the dual-pinion steering rack improved handling. Subaru’s X-Mode traction management system was standard, with advanced features on higher trims. Fuel economy was reasonable for an AWD crossover, with estimates of 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city for the 2.0-litre engine.

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 up to 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.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, built on the Impreza platform, offered competitive cargo space for a subcompact SUV. It provided 564 litres of trunk space and 1,549 litres with the rear seats folded. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring robust materials and a protective cargo tray. A heated steering wheel was standard on most trims, and the centre console could accommodate large water bottles, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring software updates for improved responsiveness. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and voice recognition, but the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, standard on all but the base trim. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charger on higher trims. The Limited trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the Starlink system was impressive, it suffered from glare in bright sunlight and required navigation through multiple menus for some features.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS for the 2022 model. It included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek was expected to maintain its Top Safety Pick status from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology, with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The 2024 model introduced a wider-angle lens for EyeSight and automatic emergency steering on models with blind-spot monitoring.