2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colours were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. Despite these changes, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance. This design choice was similar to other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with various models, promising versatility akin to the MQB platform used in VW's gasoline vehicles. The interior boasted a minimalist design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibres, offering a premium feel even in the base model.

The 2023 Acura RDX stood out in its class with a sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty and aggressive look, while the side featured a distinctive character line suggesting forward movement. The rear, however, was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX diverged from the horizontal dashboard trend, opting for a vertical layout with a centre stack of controls flowing into the console. The cockpit emphasized performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial, complemented by a 10.2-inch infotainment display and a digital centre display with analog gauges. While not as modern as some rivals, the RDX's interior offered familiarity for those averse to the latest tech-heavy designs.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model with RWD and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, available in both RWD and AWD. The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD variant increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 109 kg, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its comfortable and refined ride, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll for spirited driving on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW stopped short of offering one-pedal driving, providing a more familiar experience for new EV drivers.

The 2023 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, AWD was standard, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" or "SH-AWD." The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, with immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine and exhaust note. The transmission excelled in gear selection, and the brake pedal offered reassuring firmness. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and ample traction from the advanced AWD system. The Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured adaptive dampers, balancing sporty cornering with ride comfort, making it an attractive option for many drivers.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered generous interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in front and rear legroom, as well as headroom compared to the 2023 Kia Niro EV. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, making it practical among entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in interior space, it excelled in practicality for an affordable EV. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 1,000 kg and AWD models up to 1,225 kg. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console, improved phone storage, and three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in the top trim. The generous cushioning ensured comfort on long drives, and standard heated and ventilated front seats quickly adjusted to temperature changes. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open feel. Cargo space measured 835 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,668 litres with them folded. A deep bin under the cargo floor featured a centre drain plug, useful for wet gear or as a cooler. Front passengers had various storage options, though the centre stack's design took up unnecessary space.

For 2023, the 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, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster continued to be a standard feature. Despite updates, the user experience was hampered by haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel, which lacked physical feedback. Voice recognition offered a more convenient alternative for controlling functions. The ID.Light system, part ambient lighting and part AI assistant, provided visual cues for navigation and drive modes, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a touchpad infotainment controller, which, while better than Lexus's previous attempts, still posed challenges. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen and was out of reach. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved the experience, allowing for easier operation with quick glances. Despite the interface's shortcomings, the infotainment system itself offered sharp graphics, quick responses, and logical menus. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. A 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system delivered excellent sound quality.

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. While IIHS ratings for the 2023 model were unavailable, the 2022 model earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Acura RDX also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in side crash protection and four stars in frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with "good" scores in all crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and front and rear parking sensors. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The adaptive cruise control was praised for its smooth operation, though lane-keep assist was less refined in curves.