2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more 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 aligned it with 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 a range of models, including the upcoming ID.Buzz electric van. Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist and quality-focused design of VW’s gasoline models, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibre inserts as standard.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, available in LT, Z71, and RS trims, introduced the Z71 for those interested in moderate off-roading. While not designed for extreme terrains like the Jeep Wrangler, the Z71 was capable of handling rugged paths. Pricing was competitive, with the LT starting at $50,833 and the RS at $65,733. The Z71 model, priced at $56,833, featured gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior was accented with "Torch Red" highlights, and synthetic leather seating was optional. The Traverse’s design focused on practicality and comfort, with a spacious interior and a range of features catering to family needs.

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 with RWD or 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, 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 spirited performance, the ID.4’s handling was more comfort-oriented, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience, avoiding one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered 18 more horsepower and 50 more lb-ft of torque than the V6. AWD was standard across all trims, with the Z71 featuring a dual-clutch system for improved traction. The Traverse provided ample acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust note. Steering was adequate for its size, and the ride quality was commendable, even with the Z71’s all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy was rated at 12.4 L/100 km in the city, 9.9 on the highway, and 11.3 combined.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered generous interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf in front and rear legroom, and the Kia Niro EV in headroom. Cargo capacity was 858 litres 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 EV. Towing capacity was 1,000 kg for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for eight in the LT and Z71 trims, with the RS featuring second-row captain’s chairs for seven-passenger capacity. The Smart Slide second-row seats facilitated access to the third row, which accommodated average-size adults. Cargo volume was 648 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,764 litres with the second and third rows folded. Storage options included a hidden area under the centre console and an underfloor bin in the cargo bay. Visibility was generally good, though the third row was somewhat restricted. The Z71 featured a power-operated driver’s seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

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, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remaining standard. The user interface retained sharp graphics and intuitive voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse featured a new 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard across all models, with rapid response times and user-friendly menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display offered customizable information. The Google-based system included intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was effective in securing devices during drives. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were retained, though the driving mode button was less accessible. The Traverse introduced Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads and enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model earned the IIHS’s “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with high scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. Standard safety features included 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, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse had not yet been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert were also included, providing peace of mind during our test drive.