2022 GMC Yukon vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, offering a unique aesthetic compared to the more rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, the ID.4 aimed to appeal to North American crossover buyers, though it didn't quite resemble a traditional SUV. The interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward approach, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. Standard features included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon embraced a bold, chrome-heavy design, particularly evident in the Denali trim with its vast chrome grille. The Denali's front end was dominated by chrome, giving it a commanding presence, while the AT4 trim offered a unique off-road look with a dark grille and skid plate. Inside, the Yukon provided a spacious cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim boasted exclusive interior designs, such as the Teak/Light Shale colour combo, adding a premium touch with contrasting colours and natural wood details. The AT4 featured a Jet Black interior with Brandy accents, emphasizing its rugged appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and balanced handling. However, it lacked aggressive regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience with friction brakes.

The 2022 GMC Yukon provided a choice of three engines. The standard 5.3-litre V8 engine delivered 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while the Denali trim featured a 6.2-litre V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. A 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, known as the "Baby Duramax," offered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, with excellent fuel efficiency. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon excelled in towing capacity, with a maximum of 3,810 kilograms (8,400 pounds) when properly equipped. The independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, though some bouncing was noted on rough surfaces.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. While it lacked a "frunk," the interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility but limited rearward visibility due to thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats for efficient cabin heating.

The 2022 GMC Yukon addressed previous third-row space limitations with a redesign, increasing third-row legroom to 886 mm. Cargo space behind the third row expanded to 722 litres. The Yukon featured power-folding second-row seats and power fold-flat third-row seats for convenience. The Denali trim included a power-sliding centre console with hidden storage. Power-retractable assist steps and pushbutton transmission controls added to the Yukon's modern features.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen (optional 12-inch) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing traditional controls. While the setup looked modern, it was challenging to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light feature, which communicated information through a light strip. The infotainment system was well-positioned with easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre and a 15-inch head-up display on the Denali trim. The 10.2-inch touchscreen included Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. The Denali Ultimate Package added a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. While the Bose audio system was adequate, it didn't meet expectations for sound quality.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were new features for 2021, enhancing highway driving and driver incapacitation detection.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Pro Safety Plus package added additional safety features. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with specific ratings for crash protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS had not yet tested the current-generation Yukon.