2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 INFINITI QX60

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, marking the beginning of its second generation. This transformation included a striking new exterior with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and a floating roof effect enhanced by blacked-out pillars. The interior was equally impressive, featuring a wide, open feel with quilted leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The craftsmanship and build quality were notable, with the QX60 models produced in Tennessee showcasing a high level of attention to detail.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design. The ID.4, based on VW's MEB platform, offered a minimalist interior design with a focus on quality. It provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample legroom and headroom. The ID.4's cargo space was also substantial, making it a practical choice for those seeking an SUV-like experience in an electric vehicle.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivered a superior driving experience compared to the previous CVT, with clean and crisp shifts. The QX60's suspension, with MacPherson struts up front and an independent multilink setup in the rear, provided a smooth and serene ride. Fuel economy was estimated at 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway for FWD models and slightly lower for AWD versions.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a 62-kWh pack for the base models and an 82-kWh pack for higher trims. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower, while the dual-motor AWD versions produced 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for energy recovery, but it didn't support one-pedal driving. The AWD model provided impressive acceleration but lacked the handling finesse of hot hatchbacks.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 provided a spacious interior with three rows of seating, accommodating passengers comfortably. The second-row seats could slide to share space between rows, and the third row was accessible with a one-touch flip-forward mechanism. Cargo space was generous, with up to 75.4 cubic feet available when both rear rows were folded. The QX60 also offered a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds with the optional towing package.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than many other affordable EVs. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet when folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD versions. VW made functional improvements to the interior, including a conventional lid for the center console and a better phone storage spot.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 boasted impressive technology features, including a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The Autograph trim offered a 10.8-inch head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. The QX60 also featured a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system on higher trims, along with a suite of connectivity features via Infiniti InTouch services.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system received software updates for improved responsiveness, while the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster remained standard. The ID.4's user interface included haptic touchpads, which could be distracting, but voice recognition helped mitigate this issue. The ID.Light feature provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet received crash-test ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous generation had earned high marks. It came equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features, including multiple airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and Nissan's ProPilot Assist. Optional features included blind-spot intervention and lane-departure prevention.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was expected to achieve high marks from the IIHS, similar to the 2022 model. It offered a robust suite of standard driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and an automated lane-change feature.