2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from the brand's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. The XC90 presented a purposeful yet understated exterior, with a stout front end and a grille that was assertive without being ostentatious. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, distinguishing it from the boxy Volvos of the past. The vehicle's rectilinear shape was still present, but it was far from the toaster-like designs of yesteryear. The Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels that added a hint of drama to its otherwise stoic appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal speaker covers, crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather seats. The minimalist interior design was complemented by wood deco inlays, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 underwent subtle styling changes, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4, while distinctly an EV, did not embody the traditional SUV profile, lacking the upright stance and ground clearance typical of the segment. This design choice aligned it more with other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its underpinnings with a range of models, including the upcoming ID.Buzz. Inside, the ID.4 retained the minimalist design and quality feel of recent VW interiors. The base model offered leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts, maintaining a sense of quality even in the entry-level variant.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain that replaced the older T5 and T6 engines. This new setup offered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than its predecessor but with improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The mild-hybrid system used a lithium-ion battery to power a 13-volt starter generator, reducing the engine's load and enhancing the auto stop-start technology. The XC90 delivered a refined driving experience, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its size, the XC90 handled corners with minimal roll, and its brakes provided a confident pedal feel. The vehicle's simplicity in driving dynamics, with limited customizable modes, might appeal to some drivers while leaving others wanting more.

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 with RWD or AWD. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD variant delivered 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's AWD version rivalled hot hatchbacks in acceleration but lacked the handling prowess. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more conventional experience for new EV drivers.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a serene front-seat experience, though its Scandinavian minimalism led to limited storage space. The lack of a dedicated phone space and small centre console bin were notable drawbacks. The second row was comfortable but adjusting the seats proved challenging. The standard seven-passenger seating could be altered to six-passenger with captain's chairs. Accessing the third row was difficult, and space was limited once there. Cargo capacity was 356 litres with all seats up, expanding to 1,183 litres with the third row folded, and 1,856 litres with all rear seats down, falling short of some competitors. The XC90 drove like a smaller vehicle, reflecting its compact dimensions for a three-row SUV.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than many affordable EVs. With 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, it surpassed most entry-level EVs. While it didn't match gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in space, it was practical for an affordable EV. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kilograms and AWD models up to 1,225 kilograms. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional centre console lid and improved phone storage, along with three-zone climate control and heated rear seats.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertical touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Android Auto and Google Assistant. The system included Google Maps and Spotify, with natural-language recognition enhancing user experience. However, many functions were buried in the touchscreen interface, leading to potential frustration. Keyless entry was standard, with a head-up display optional.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Software updates improved responsiveness, while the user interface retained sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. The haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive, but voice commands often sufficed. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. These technologies supported Volvo's Pilot Assist, maintaining distance and speed in traffic.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star NHTSA rating, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. While IIHS ratings for 2023 were pending, the 2022 model earned 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, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.