2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the brand underwent a transformation, developing new platforms like the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for its flagship SUV, the XC90. The vehicle's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by the distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trims, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 made subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4, based on VW's MEB platform, was designed specifically for EVs, offering a minimalist interior with quality materials. It provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with a focus on practicality. The ID.4's design was less SUV-like, lacking the traditional upright profile and ground clearance, but it offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The interior featured leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers, and the 2023 model introduced a conventional lid for the center console and three-zone climate control.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining a gasoline engine and electric motor for a total of 455 hp. The T5 models were available in FWD or AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 FWD achieving up to 25 mpg combined, while the T8 offered 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a new 62-kWh battery for the base models, while higher trims retained the 82-kWh pack. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower, while the dual-motor AWD version offered 295 hp, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4's driving dynamics were comfortable but allowed for some body roll, making it less engaging on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience without one-pedal driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. It offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well even in high temperatures and humidity.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet when folded. It offered towing capacities of 2,200 pounds for RWD and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. The interior featured a new center console design and three-zone climate control. The ID.4 was practical for an affordable EV, though it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in terms of interior space.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it was occasionally glitchy. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera. The XC90 came with Harman Kardon Premium Sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade. It included USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, with the Volvo Care app providing remote vehicle controls.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen and software updates for improved responsiveness. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a digital instrument cluster. The user interface included haptic touchpads, which lacked physical feedback but were complemented by effective voice recognition. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and a choice of display views.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its comprehensive suite of driver-assist features.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. While IIHS ratings for 2023 were pending, the 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and an automated lane-change feature.