2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged in the U.S. market after a hiatus, now built on the robust Toyota New Global Architecture K (TGNA-K) platform. This platform, shared with models like the Avalon, Camry, and RAV4, provided the Venza with a solid foundation. Measuring 186.6 inches in length, 73.0 inches in width, and 65.9 inches in height, the Venza was on the smaller side of the midsize crossover segment. Its design was sleek and modern, with a distinctive scalloped body side and a prominent tailgate featuring LED lighting. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials, a layered dash, and a well-placed touchscreen display. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more aerodynamic rear bumper design. The ID.4, based on VW’s MEB platform, was designed specifically for EVs and offered a modular structure to support various models. While it didn’t have the traditional SUV look, it provided a minimalist and quality interior. The base ID.4 Standard model featured leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers, and the higher-level ID.4 Pro S offered additional comforts. The interior changes for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and a better phone storage spot, enhancing functionality.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. This hybrid setup allowed for electric-only operation for short distances and offered Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to the Venza’s efficiency. The Venza delivered a balanced performance with agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family hauler.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base Standard and S models, while the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus retained the 82-kWh pack. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD models delivered 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, improving acceleration and handling. The ID.4 provided a comfortable and refined ride, though it allowed too much body roll for truly entertaining driving on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but didn’t support one-pedal driving, offering a more familiar experience for EV newcomers.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 45.2 inches of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The cabin felt roomy, especially with the available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof. Convenience features included an overhead console with LED map lights, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an electric parking brake. The Venza provided 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 55.1 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. Toyota focused on making the cabin quiet, adding sound-blocking and absorbing insulation throughout.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The ID.4 also offered some towing capability, with a capacity of 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Interior changes for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and a better phone storage spot, along with three-zone climate control and heated outboard rear seats.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, making it ideal for those without access to charging infrastructure. The Venza’s hybrid setup included a Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) program that optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The LE and XLE models came with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the Limited added a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Toyota Connected Services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect. An Advanced Technology Package for the Limited trim offered a head-up display and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

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 ID.4’s user interface included haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel, which could be distracting. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and AI assistance, changing colors based on drive mode and navigation directions.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera. It also featured eight airbags, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, and LATCH anchors for child safety seats. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

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 received the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick+ rating, with top scores in all crash tests and high ratings for front crash prevention. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. For 2023, it added Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.