2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Toyota RAV4

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 showcased 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 those seeking a more conventional SUV look. However, this design approach was not unique to VW, as many electric vehicles, like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, shared similar styling cues.

Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 was designed specifically for electric vehicles, offering modularity to support various models. The interior retained the minimalist design and quality feel of recent VW gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery and recycled fibre inserts as standard. The base model, despite having a manual driver’s seat, did not feel significantly downgraded compared to higher trims. The ID.4 aimed to balance practicality and modern design, appealing to those looking for an eco-friendly SUV alternative.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a rugged appearance with its aggressive styling, including angular grey body cladding and dual exhaust outlets. Upper trims featured faux skid plates, and off-road-themed versions boasted utility-style roof racks. The TRD Off-Road trim, although discontinued in Canada, was tested in the U.S., while the Limited trim topped the Canadian lineup. The RAV4 offered a range of prices, starting from $36,215 for the LE to $47,815 for the Limited, with hybrids adding a premium for enhanced power and fuel efficiency.

The RAV4’s interior focused on practicality, with features like storage shelves and rubber-lined areas. SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat were standard, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel available. The cabin comfortably accommodated four adults, with ample legroom and footroom, although the rear seat could feel low. The cargo area offered 1,059 litres of space, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded, making it competitive in its segment.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model, available only with rear-wheel drive (RWD). The Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack, offering both RWD and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD variant 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 impressive acceleration, the ID.4’s handling was less engaging, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience, stopping short of one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. In Canada, AWD was standard, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 featured Multi-Terrain Select with various driving modes and ground clearance ranging from 20.6 to 21.6 centimetres. The engine, while powerful for its class, required high revs to access maximum power, resulting in a loud and unrefined sound. The eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s reliability were notable positives. Fuel economy ratings varied, with the gas RAV4 achieving 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, while the hybrid version offered better efficiency at 6.4 L/100 km.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,818 litres with the seats folded. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in terms of interior space, it was a practical choice among affordable EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kilograms 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 RAV4 prioritized practicality and utility, featuring storage shelves, trays, and rubberized control knobs. The interior was equipped with SofTex artificial leather upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. The cabin comfortably accommodated four adults, with good legroom and footroom. The cargo area offered 1,059 litres of space, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded. The RAV4’s interior was designed for recreational activities, with features like a heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers enhancing its versatility.

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 featured sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, although the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, but could be easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or available 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Service Connect and Safety Connect were included for ten years, while Remote Connect was complimentary for three years. Drive Connect required a subscription, offering cloud-based navigation and a digital voice assistant. The infotainment system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay. The test vehicle had an active Drive Connect plan, but the digital voice assistant had some limitations.

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, with top scores in all crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4 came with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. For 2023, the ID.4 added standard Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and blind-spot monitoring. While the system was adequate, it had some limitations, such as excessive braking in certain situations and inaccurate lane-departure warnings. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to a Marginal rating in the small overlap frontal-impact crash test and an Acceptable rating in the side-impact test. These results highlighted the need for an updated version of the RAV4.