2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Toyota Sienna

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 colors 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. The ID.4 was built on VW’s MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, offering a modular approach similar to the MQB platform used in other VW models. Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist design and quality feel from VW’s gasoline models, with standard leatherette upholstery and recycled fiber inserts, even in the base model.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, available in multiple trims, presented a distinctive look with sleek front and rear fascias and vibrant color options. LED lighting was standard, with upper trims featuring Bi-LED projector headlamps. The XSE trim, marketed as sporty, included a black metallic mesh grille and 20-inch dark wheels. The Woodland Edition offered a slightly more off-road-ready package with roof rails, a tow hitch, and increased ground clearance. Inside, the Sienna provided a spacious and functional layout, with options for captain’s chairs and leather-trimmed seats. The interior design emphasized practicality, with features like a fixed center console and available built-in vacuum cleaner, catering to families.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a 62-kWh pack for the base Standard and S models with RWD, and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models, available with RWD or AWD. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD models increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, enhancing acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4's handling was not as sharp as some hot hatchbacks, 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 Toyota Sienna, a hybrid minivan, combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a total of 245 horsepower. AWD models added an electric motor for the rear wheels. Despite a sport-tuned suspension and Sport mode, the Sienna's performance was not particularly exciting, with sluggish acceleration and a noisy CVT. The minivan excelled in smooth, if unremarkable, city driving, with modes like Normal, Eco, and EV for different conditions. The brakes were occasionally grabby, but steering was light and visibility was excellent. Competing minivans like the Honda Odyssey and Kia Carnival offered more powerful V6 engines.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in front and rear legroom and headroom. It offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded, making it practical for an entry-level EV. The ID.4 also had a towing capacity of 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control and heated rear seats.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior functionality, with a lower storage pass-through, multiple cupholders, and a shelf with a wireless charging pad. The second-row captain’s chairs offered 25 inches of sliding range, providing up to 40 inches of legroom. However, the seats were not removable, limiting maximum cargo space. The third row was accessible and offered 39 inches of legroom when the second row was pushed forward. The Sienna featured tri-zone climate control, with an additional zone for the front passenger in the XSE trim. The rear liftgate revealed 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 101 cubic feet with the third row stowed.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring updated software for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit 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, though it was easy to overlook during normal driving.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna retained older infotainment technology, with a nine-inch touchscreen and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included physical buttons for common functions, but the backup camera's grainy display was disappointing. The Sienna offered a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM radio, and an optional JBL stereo system. USB ports were plentiful, and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt outlet was available. Optional features included a rear-seat entertainment system and a head-up display.

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, similar to the 2023 version, earned the IIHS’ “Top Safety Pick+” rating. 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, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna came with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, offering lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, road sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna had numerous airbags, including side curtain airbags for all rows, and reminders for seat belts and rear passengers. The NHTSA rated the Sienna with four stars for frontal crash and rollover protection and five stars for side crash protection. The IIHS gave it top scores in crashworthiness but rated front crash prevention as “Average.”