2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5 exuded a classy, modern appearance with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels.

Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, packed with technology yet uncluttered. Controls were smartly grouped by function, and the design unity was pleasing. High-quality materials, including real wood and metal, were used throughout. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy driver access. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather seating surfaces, providing a comfortable experience for passengers.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was designed as an EV from the ground up, showcasing a distinctive look that set it apart from Volkswagen's gasoline models. It replaced the straight lines and sharp angles of models like the Tiguan and Atlas with a streamlined profile and wheels pushed to the corners. The ID.4 was part of VW's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it didn't mimic traditional SUV styling, it offered a unique crossover appeal.

Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalism with a smartphone aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, while higher trims offered leatherette upholstery. The interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility despite the steeply-raked windshield. However, rearward visibility was limited due to thick rear pillars and a small back window. The ID.4's interior design aimed to maximize cabin space, foregoing a "frunk" for extra storage.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience by adding an electric motor to the standard gasoline engine, resulting in a combined output of 362 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered a fuel economy of 65 MPGe combined, with a gasoline-only rating of 27 mpg. The battery could be recharged overnight with household current or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. The Q5 featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive, offering various driving modes for battery power management. Handling was balanced with minimal body roll, and the braking system was powerful and predictable.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 launched with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, powered by an 82-kWh battery pack. It was the first RWD Volkswagen passenger car in the U.S. since the Beetle. An AWD version with a second motor arrived later, increasing power to 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. While not sporty, the ID.4 was tuned for comfort, with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. The ID.4 relied on friction brakes, with limited regenerative braking in "B" mode, providing a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline cars.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-balanced interior space, with 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage spaces, including cupholders and cubbies for small items.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though legroom was average for the segment. It offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded. While lacking a "frunk," the ID.4's interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. The console was narrow, offering limited storage space, but included places for phones. Standard heated steering wheel and front seats efficiently maintained cabin heat, though the driver's seat lacked thigh support.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered three customizable views and was enhanced by LED ambient lighting. The Prestige Package included navigation, which worked with the hybrid system to optimize fuel consumption. The Integrated Toll Module was standard, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system was available. Wireless Apple CarPlay was included.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch option, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing most switchgear. The control setup was challenging to use, but a natural-language voice-control system offered an alternative. The ID.Light feature communicated information through a light strip, though it was more of a novelty. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, Audi Pre Sense, and various driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for the RWD model. Standard driver aids included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were new features, with Travel Assist offering smooth lane-centering and responsive acceleration and deceleration.