2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Volkswagen made subtle styling changes to the 2023 ID.4, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design to improve aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colors were introduced, and the rear VW logo now lights up. Despite these updates, the ID.4 didn't look particularly SUV-like, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance typical of traditional SUVs. This could be a drawback for buyers attracted to those features. However, the ID.4's minimalist interior design and quality materials, including leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers, were carried over from VW's gasoline models, providing a premium feel even in the base model.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer, on the other hand, continued its aggressive styling with a minor refresh that included thinner accent lights, a reshaped grille, and smaller, deeper-set lower headlights. These changes gave the Trailblazer a more athletic and serious appearance. Inside, the dashboard received a significant update with a new digital instrument panel and an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen, enhancing the modern look. While the materials used were mostly hard plastics, the padded armrests and fabric inserts in the door panels added a touch of comfort and style.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 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 produced 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, improving acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4's handling was not as sharp as its acceleration, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. The regenerative braking system allowed for coasting in its default setting, but did not support one-pedal driving, which might disappoint some EV enthusiasts.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two powertrains: a base 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT, and a more powerful 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter engine provided adequate performance, but acceleration to highway speeds required planning due to the slow transmission response. The Trailblazer's handling was average, with a focus on comfort rather than sporty driving. It smoothed over most road imperfections and kept road and wind noise to a minimum at highway speeds.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more front and rear legroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, making it one of the most practical entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also offered some towing capability, with a 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, a better phone storage spot, and available three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered ample front space and good outward visibility, with a wireless charging pad, medium-sized cupholders, and a deep bin under the armrest for storage. The front seats were firmly padded and heated seats were standard on all but the base trim. The rear seats provided plenty of legroom and space for rear-facing infant seats, making it a good choice for families. The Trailblazer offered 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, nearly matching the Hyundai Kona and surpassing the Mazda CX-30. An available hands-free power liftgate with selectable opening height added convenience.

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, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster and ID.Light ambient lighting system were also standard. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly than conventional buttons, making voice recognition a more practical option for controlling various functions.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a new 11-inch infotainment touchscreen standard on all trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's response to inputs was slightly delayed, but the display was well-placed to reduce distraction. A native navigation system was not offered, requiring reliance on smartphone connectivity. The base six-speaker audio system performed well, with an optional Bose upgrade available. Overall, the Trailblazer's technology features were easy to use but not particularly impressive.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in frontal and side crash tests, and four stars in rollover tests. The 2022 model received the IIHS' highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in all crash tests and high ratings for front crash prevention. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear park distance control, automatic high beams, traffic-sign recognition, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0 with adaptive cruise control and automated lane centering. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus automated parking, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and the highest "good" scores from the IIHS in all crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning. The optional Driver Confidence package added a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors. Adaptive cruise control was available as a standalone option. The Trailblazer's safety features functioned well, but it lacked some of the standard driver assists found in rivals.