2022 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2022 Subaru Forester was available in several trims, including base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring, with prices starting at $25,195 and reaching $35,295 for the Touring model. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup, and the Forester offered a variety of dealer-installed accessories. The Wilderness trim, tested in the Cascade Mountains, featured a rugged design with a suspension lift, higher ride height, and extensive protective cladding, giving it a distinctive, albeit polarizing, appearance. Inside, the Forester emphasized functionality with a straightforward interior design, combining hard plastics and soft surfaces. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper design. The ID.4, based on VW's MEB platform, was easily distinguishable as an EV but lacked the traditional SUV profile. Its interior carried over the minimalist design and quality feel from VW's gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibers. The ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample legroom and headroom. Cargo space was generous, and the ID.4 provided some towing capability, with a capacity of 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. The interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply. This allowed the Wilderness to double its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg combined, and it averaged 25.9 mpg during testing. The SUV excelled in various driving environments, including off-road conditions, thanks to its long-travel suspension and dual-function X-Mode system. However, the lack of a turbocharger was noticeable, especially at higher altitudes.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base Standard and S models, and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD models produced 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for coasting in its default setting, with a more aggressive "B" setting available. While the ID.4 provided comfortable and refined driving, it allowed too much body roll for truly engaging handling on twisty roads.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it suitable for outdoor adventures. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 220 pounds and a static load of 800 pounds, allowing for a three-person roof tent. The Forester offered comfortable seating and decent storage space, with a cargo capacity of 28.9 cubic feet without the sunroof and 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample legroom and headroom. It offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera, and the PIN Code Access feature allowed for keyless entry during outdoor activities.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen with software updates for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive than conventional buttons. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. It included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

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's "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS was expected to carry over. The ID.4 offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0.