2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of its gasoline counterparts. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, offering a unique aesthetic compared to the more rugged look of the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 shared its platform with the European-market ID.3 hatchback, but with a crossover design aimed at the U.S. market. Despite its SUV-like intentions, the ID.4's appearance was more akin to a hatchback, similar to other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward approach, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. The base model came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, while higher trims offered leatherette upholstery.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a more athletic and luxurious design. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sophisticated look, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. Inside, the GLE Coupe was opulent, with high-end materials like Nappa leather and a Dinamica suede headliner. The dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment added a high-tech feel, complemented by ambient lighting for a more enjoyable driving experience. The interior design masked complexity with a facade of simplicity, though it required some acclimation to operate smoothly.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 initially launched with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. It marked Volkswagen's return to rear-wheel drive in the U.S. market. An all-wheel-drive version later increased power to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. While not a performance car, the ID.4 offered balanced handling and a smooth ride, with body roll in corners. Regenerative braking was less aggressive than in other EVs, focusing on coasting efficiency and a familiar driving experience for those transitioning from gasoline vehicles.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe boasted a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, enhanced by a 48-volt EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. It featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, including Sport+ for high-performance scenarios. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban and suburban settings, with a tight turning radius and responsive steering. On challenging roads, it demonstrated impressive grip and braking performance, though its size and weight were noticeable.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a front trunk, prioritizing cabin space. Visibility was good from the front but limited at the rear due to thick pillars. The interior featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and narrow center console, with standard heated steering wheel and front seats for efficient cabin heating.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five people, though four was more comfortable. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Rear seat space was ample for adults, and cargo capacity ranged from 27.5 to 63.2 cubic feet. The GLE Coupe included luxury features like a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing comfort and ambiance.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing traditional controls. While visually appealing, the touchpads were challenging to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 also featured a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light, a light strip for driver communication.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition and augmented video for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system was standard, with an upgraded version available.

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 safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control with Travel Assist for lane centering. Emergency Assist was also standard, designed to stop the car if the driver was incapacitated.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, though crash-test results were unavailable. The standard GLE, on which it is based, received top safety ratings.