2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive design, characterized by a flat-roofed profile that emphasized its SUV-like appearance. The exterior was clean and free of unnecessary detailing, aligning with Volvo's pro-electrification ethos, as evidenced by the hidden tailpipes on gasoline models. Updates for 2023 included a new pixelated design for the "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 Recharge was easily identifiable by its new sealed-off grille. Inside, the XC40 continued with its minimalist design, featuring thin air vents, scalloped door handles, and a central touchscreen. The interior offered dual-zone automatic climate control and optional leather upholstery, with vegan leather for Recharge models. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design. New wheel designs and colours were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. The ID.4, while distinct as an EV, lacked the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its underpinnings with other EVs, offering a modular design. The interior retained a minimalist design with a quality feel, even in the base model. Leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts was standard, and the interior changes for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage. The ID.4 offered more interior space than many affordable EVs, making it a practical choice for those seeking an SUV-like experience.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. This system enhanced fuel economy and smoothed power delivery. The B5 models in Canada were equipped with a 2.0-litre turbo-four-cylinder engine, producing 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 models could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, outperforming the Audi Q3. The XC40 Recharge, with its two electric motors, delivered 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and offering a 359-kilometre range. The Recharge also had a higher towing capacity of 2,000 kg compared to the B5 AWD model's 1,587 kg. The XC40 was praised for its refinement, handling corners with composure and absorbing bumps effectively, though it lacked a sport driving mode.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD, while the Pro model retained the 82-kWh pack, available with RWD or AWD. The single electric motor RWD models produced 201 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD powertrain increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4 provided a comfortable and refined ride, though it allowed too much body roll for spirited driving. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving. The ID.4 was capable of covering approximately 320 kilometres on a charge, making it a practical choice for longer drives.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while marketed as an SUV, was more suited for solo commuting than family carpooling. It offered reasonable space among its competitors, with ample rear-seat headroom and average legroom. The XC40 provided 566 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than some rivals. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels and a spacious centre console. A power tailgate and keyless entry were standard features.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom than the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with a capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage. Three-zone climate control was available, enhancing comfort for rear-seat passengers.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 featured an Android-based infotainment system, using Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available on higher trims. The system offered pleasing graphics, though users preferring Apple devices might find the Google features less satisfying. The minimalist design meant most controls were accessed via the touchscreen, which could be less intuitive for some users.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved software responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system provided sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly, lacking physical feedback. The ID.Light feature added ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Upgrading to higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. The XC40 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though it had an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test. The XC40's Pilot Assist system offered smooth lane-centring but had a tendency to hug the right side of the lane.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The 2022 model, similar to the 2023 version, earned the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" rating. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. New for 2023 were features like Park Assist Plus and an automated lane-change function. The ID.4's safety features provided a good level of protection and convenience for drivers.