2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Overview | |
MSRP$38,995 | MSRP$23,100 |
Average price$28,800 | Average price$26,018 |
Listings536 | Listings2147 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.8 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.8 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Reviews SummaryThe Volkswagen ID.4 is still relatively new to the marketplace (it debuted for the 2021 model year) but VW is already making some important updates to keep it competitive and fulfill goals set when this compact electric SUV first launched. The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 adds a new base model and a smaller 62-kilowatt-hour battery pack alongside the carryover 82-kWh to increase affordability. VW will also begin sourcing cars for its United States dealerships from the same Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory that builds the gasoline-powered Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The automaker has been discussing this since the ID.4 was unveiled, but at first cars for the U.S. came from Zwickau, Germany. The 2023 ID.4 retains single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain options, but gets revised exterior and interior styling, some software changes, and a few more standard tech features and driver aids. The new-for-2023 base model is dubbed ID.4 Standard, slotting below the ID.4 S, ID.4 Pro, ID.4 Pro S, and ID.4 Pro S Plus trim levels (the Pro S Plus replaces the Gradient appearance package from previous model years). We recently spent a day driving a Pro S AWD model from Nashville to Chattanooga, along with a shorter drive in an ID.4 Standard model. | |
2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer Reviews SummaryVerdict: The Chevrolet Trailblazer checks all of the necessary boxes for performance, efficiency, price, and capability. It also manages to exceed expectations for passenger space, cargo capacity, style, and ease of use. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine201 hp Electric | Engine1.2L 137 hp I3 |
Drive TrainRWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower | Horsepower137 hp @ 5000 rpm |
EV Battery Capacity62 kWh | EV Battery Capacity |
MPG City115 | MPG City29 |
MPG Highway99 | MPG Highway33 |
Engine | |
Engine Name201 hp Electric | Engine Name1.2L 137 hp I3 |
Torque | Torque162 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm |
Horsepower | Horsepower137 hp @ 5000 rpm |
DrivetrainRWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
EV Battery Capacity62 kWh | EV Battery Capacity |
MPG City115 | MPG City29 |
MPG Highway99 | MPG Highway33 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemStandard | Navigation System |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space30.3 cu ft | Cargo Space25.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight4317 lbs | Curb Weight3029 lbs |
Height64.5 in | Height64.2 in |
Length180.5 in | Length174.0 in |
Width72.9 in | Width71.2 in |
Wheelbase108.9 in | Wheelbase103.9 in |
Maximum Payload959 lbs | Maximum Payload1160 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Towing Capacity1000 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $38,995 | $23,100 |
Average price | $28,800 | $26,018 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.8 out of 10Read full review | 6.8 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
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Summary | The Volkswagen ID.4 is still relatively new to the marketplace (it debuted for the 2021 model year) but VW is already making some important updates to keep it competitive and fulfill goals set when this compact electric SUV first launched. The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 adds a new base model and a smaller 62-kilowatt-hour battery pack alongside the carryover 82-kWh to increase affordability. VW will also begin sourcing cars for its United States dealerships from the same Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory that builds the gasoline-powered Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The automaker has been discussing this since the ID.4 was unveiled, but at first cars for the U.S. came from Zwickau, Germany. The 2023 ID.4 retains single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain options, but gets revised exterior and interior styling, some software changes, and a few more standard tech features and driver aids. The new-for-2023 base model is dubbed ID.4 Standard, slotting below the ID.4 S, ID.4 Pro, ID.4 Pro S, and ID.4 Pro S Plus trim levels (the Pro S Plus replaces the Gradient appearance package from previous model years). We recently spent a day driving a Pro S AWD model from Nashville to Chattanooga, along with a shorter drive in an ID.4 Standard model. | Verdict: The Chevrolet Trailblazer checks all of the necessary boxes for performance, efficiency, price, and capability. It also manages to exceed expectations for passenger space, cargo capacity, style, and ease of use. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 201 hp Electric | 1.2L 137 hp I3 |
Drive Train | RWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 137 hp @ 5000 rpm | |
EV Battery Capacity | 62 kWh | |
MPG City | 115 | 29 |
MPG Highway | 99 | 33 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 201 hp Electric | 1.2L 137 hp I3 |
Torque | 162 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm | |
Horsepower | 137 hp @ 5000 rpm | |
Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
EV Battery Capacity | 62 kWh | |
MPG City | 115 | 29 |
MPG Highway | 99 | 33 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 30.3 cu ft | 25.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4317 lbs | 3029 lbs |
Height | 64.5 in | 64.2 in |
Length | 180.5 in | 174.0 in |
Width | 72.9 in | 71.2 in |
Wheelbase | 108.9 in | 103.9 in |
Maximum Payload | 959 lbs | 1160 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 1000 lbs | |
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.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer scores 6.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is the better choice, offering more interior space, better performance, and a higher level of standard safety features.
Choose the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 if:
- You prioritize interior space and cargo capacity in an affordable EV.
- You want a vehicle with a high safety rating and comprehensive driver-assist features.
- You prefer a modern infotainment system with a large touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration.
Choose the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer if:
- You need a subcompact SUV with good outward visibility and ample rear-seat space.
- You value a modern interior with a large infotainment touchscreen and easy-to-use technology.
- You want a vehicle with a high safety rating and available advanced safety features.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer scores 6.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is the better choice, offering more interior space, better performance, and a higher level of standard safety features.
Choose the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 if:
Shop Now- You prioritize interior space and cargo capacity in an affordable EV.
- You want a vehicle with a high safety rating and comprehensive driver-assist features.
- You prefer a modern infotainment system with a large touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration.
Choose the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer if:
Shop Now- You need a subcompact SUV with good outward visibility and ample rear-seat space.
- You value a modern interior with a large infotainment touchscreen and easy-to-use technology.
- You want a vehicle with a high safety rating and available advanced safety features.
By: CarGurus + AI
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