2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Toyota 4Runner

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, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres and a standard manual driver’s seat in the base model.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner retained its classic, albeit outdated, design, having last been redesigned in 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged stance, suitable for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires. Inside, the 4Runner showed its age with an analog instrument panel and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The interior featured hard plastics, but cushioned panels provided some comfort. Despite its dated appearance, the 4Runner offered excellent outward visibility and practical features like a sliding glass rear window and a hitch receiver. The interior space was generous, with ample legroom and a stadium-like seating experience in the second row, although headroom was limited for taller passengers.

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 lb-ft 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 reduced curb weight by 109 kg, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its spirited performance, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll for truly engaging driving on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While adequate for off-roading, the 4Runner felt sluggish on highways, requiring aggressive acceleration. The TRD Pro model featured 4WD and a two-speed transfer case, enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, the soft suspension led to noticeable body roll and nosedive during hard braking. The 4Runner's handling was less refined on paved roads, with residual bounces and floatiness over undulations. Despite these drawbacks, the 4Runner excelled in off-road environments, where its rugged design and features shone.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than many affordable EVs, with 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. It provided more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kg and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior, though dated, was practical with easy-to-use controls and excellent visibility. It offered ample space for front passengers, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted. The 4Runner could hold 1,337 litres of cargo behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,540 litres with the seats stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks. The sliding glass rear window and party speakers in the hatch were unique features, and the 4Runner could tow up to 2,268 kg.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved responsiveness and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system featured 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.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often overshadowed its quality. Off-road controls were located in the headliner console, requiring familiarity with the owner's manual to fully utilize. The Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select systems enhanced off-road performance, but the lack of off-road-specific apps was a limitation.

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 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 and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from the NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. The IIHS gave it "Good" scores in some tests but noted "Marginal" and "Poor" results in others. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning. The TRD Pro and Limited trims added a surround-view camera system, though the 4Runner's alerts were often oversensitive.