2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colours were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. Despite its electric vehicle identity, the ID.4 did not possess the traditional SUV look, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance typical of such vehicles. This design choice was similar to other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with other models, promising versatility in design. The interior maintained a minimalist design with quality materials, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts as standard.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received styling updates similar to its three-row sibling, with new lighting elements and illuminated VW logos on the grille and tailgate. The front featured a light bar connecting the daytime running lights, while the rear had reshaped taillights blending into a light bar. The Cross Sport's silhouette was more akin to "crossover coupes" from luxury brands, with a lower roofline and a shorter length compared to the standard Atlas. New wheel designs were available across trim levels, with options for larger wheels on higher trims. The interior saw revisions, including a raised centre console and a new electronic shifter, enhancing storage space. Standard leatherette upholstery was complemented by leather and quilted leather options on higher trims, though the simulated wood and carbon-fibre trims remained plastic.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with rear-wheel drive, while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack with options for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The single electric motor rear-wheel drive models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor all-wheel drive variant increased output to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet 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 spirited performance, the ID.4's handling was not as sharp as hot hatchbacks like the Golf GTI, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more conventional driving experience.

For 2024, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive in Canada. This engine produced 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, offering more torque but slightly less horsepower than the previous VR6 engine. The new engine promised quicker acceleration, with peak torque arriving earlier. Despite the power, the engine's noise was noticeable, and the Cross Sport's driving experience was unremarkable, with neither sporty handling nor exceptional ride quality. The maximum towing capacity remained at 2,268 kilograms, suitable for typical midsize crossover needs but less than some competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf in front and rear legroom, and offering more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. Cargo space was generous, with 858 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in interior space, it was practical for an entry-level EV. Towing capacity was modest, with 1,000 kilograms for rear-wheel drive and 1,225 kilograms for all-wheel drive models. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport added more standard equipment, including heated side mirrors, a power liftgate, and ventilated front seats. While front headroom was competitive, the sloping roofline reduced rear-seat headroom, though legroom remained adequate. Cargo space was substantial, with 1,141 litres with the rear seats up and 2,197 litres with them folded, comparable to rivals like the Honda Passport. The cabin was functional, with a redesigned centre console offering ample storage and door pockets capable of holding multiple bottles.

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, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remaining standard. The user interface featured sharp graphics and voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive than traditional buttons. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked during regular driving.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport also featured a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless smartphone integration. The user experience was similar to the three-row Atlas, with intuitive layouts but hindered by haptic touchpads. Six USB-C ports were standard, and the Execline trim included a head-up display and a Harman Kardon premium audio system, enhancing the tech offerings.

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 IIHS had not published ratings for the 2023 model, but the 2022 model received a "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 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS had not rated the 2024 model, but the 2023 model received "Good" scores in most tests. Standard driver assistance features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline trim added park assist and a surround-view camera system, with all models featuring post-collision braking and an emergency assist feature.