2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E

Not long ago, the idea of Ford applying Mustang styling cues to a five-door crossover SUV shocked purists, especially when it came to an electric car. However, this move turned out to be a smart one. The Mustang Mach-E's long, narrow, and tall dimensions might have looked odd at first glance with the galloping horse emblems, scowling headlights, bold rear fender haunches, and tri-bar taillights, but these classic elements tied the electric SUV visually to the legendary pony car, boosting its popularity.

Ford had built over 150,000 Mustang Mach-E’s since the EV debuted in 2021, delivering them to customers worldwide. In the U.S. market, the Mach-E was available in Select, Premium, California Route 1, and GT trim levels, ranging in price from $45,995 to $63,995, plus a destination charge of $1,800. As of the time of reviewing, the Mach-E was eligible for the $7,500 federal income tax credit, along with additional state rebates and local incentives, effectively reducing the car’s price by nearly $10,000.

Our test vehicle arrived in GT spec, featuring extra-cost Cyber Orange paint and a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $66,590, including the destination charge. It lacked the new-for-2023 Nite Pony appearance package, which was only available with Premium trim or the GT model’s optional Performance Edition package.

Stylistically, the Mustang Mach-E GT exuded quality and technology, easily competing with any EV in the same price class, including the Volkswagen ID.4. The GT trim boasted a distinctive look with revised bumpers, unique 20-inch wheels, and a dark front panel that mimicked a traditional grille. It appeared more aggressive than other versions, with an interior that held its own against luxury vehicles.

Inside, the test vehicle felt refined, with sport-bolstered seats wrapped in artificial leather and synthetic suede, accented with copper stitching and piping. The classic dual-cowl dashboard, door panels, and speaker grilles were adorned with fabric, paired with metallic and gloss-black trim. This combination, along with two rectangular display screens, delivered a sporty, upscale, high-tech ambiance. Ford skillfully blended past, present, and future in a stylish package that resonated deeply with consumers.

VW made several subtle styling changes for the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4. The front bumper featured gloss black trim, while the rear bumper’s more squared-off design improved aerodynamics. All wheel designs and colors were new, and the rear VW logo now illuminated.

Though easily distinguished as an EV compared to VW’s gasoline models, the ID.4 didn’t particularly resemble an SUV. It lacked the upright profile and added ground clearance typical of traditional SUVs, which might have been a downside for those drawn to the classic SUV look. However, this was not unique to the ID.4; many current electric vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, shared the same characteristic, blurring the line between hatchback and crossover.

Based on VW’s MEB platform specifically designed for EVs, the ID.4 offered built-in modularity to support various models, essentially serving as the EV equivalent to VW’s MQB platform. This platform also laid the groundwork for upcoming models like the ID.Buzz electric van, expected in 2024.

Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist design and quality feel of recent VW gasoline-car interiors. Even the base ID.4 Standard model didn’t feel like much of a downgrade from the higher-level ID.4 Pro S, despite its manual driver’s seat. Leatherette upholstery with seat and door-panel inserts made partly from recycled fibers was standard for 2023, further emphasizing the ID.4’s blend of quality and environmental consciousness.

The Mustang Mach-E offered a variety of configurations with standard-range and extended-range battery packs and single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD electric drive systems. This range provided power and efficiency ratings that varied from 266 to 480 horsepower, 317 to 634 pound-feet of torque, and 224 to 312 miles of driving range.

The Mach-E GT featured an extended-range battery and AWD drivetrain layout, with a more powerful front electric motor. This setup delivered 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque, catapulting the GT from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Its official EPA driving range was 270 miles. Opting for the GT ## Performance Edition package increased the torque to 634 lb-ft, though it reduced the range to 260 miles. This package also included an adaptive damping suspension, larger front brakes, and summer performance tires, enhancing the car’s driving dynamics.

GT models came with Whisper, Engage, and Unbridled driving modes, modifying the EV’s behavior, responsiveness, and synthetic soundtrack. Additionally, the exclusive Unbridled Extend mode was designed for racetrack use. One-pedal driving allowed for intuitive operation, though we evaluated the GT in Engage mode with this feature turned off.

The dual-motor system powering all four wheels made the Mach-E GT undeniably fast, though applying acceleration judiciously was wise until one acclimated to the vehicle’s responsive nature. The steering in Engage mode lacked the crisp response and communicative feel expected from a performance-oriented vehicle but performed impressively overall given its SUV crossover classification. The brakes offered consistent, fade-free bite, though the regenerative system’s sensitivity was not adjustable. The ride quality was firm, and the suspension settings caused a choppy ride, though Ford effectively managed excessive body motions. Nonetheless, the most satisfying variant was likely the ## Performance Edition with its upgraded suspension, stickier tires, and larger front brakes.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 ventured into the performance realm with a new 62-kWh battery pack available on the base Standard and S models, only with RWD. The Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models retained the 82-kWh pack, offered with both RWD or AWD configurations.

Powertrain options carried over from previous models, with single-motor RWD versions producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. The dual-motor AWD setup boosted output to 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 5.7 seconds, according to VW.

Volkswagen estimated that the smaller battery pack decreased curb weight by 240 pounds, potentially improving acceleration and handling. During a short downtown Chattanooga test drive, the 62-kWh ID.4 Standard felt sprightly, though more extensive seat time would offer better performance comparisons with the larger-battery RWD version. Nonetheless, it did not feel like a compromise in driving dynamics.

While the AWD ID.4 rivaled hot hatchbacks like VW’s Golf GTI and Golf R in acceleration, it fell short in handling. Though comfortable and refined, the ID.4’s body roll detracted from its performance on winding roads. Despite being an ideal vehicle for a long road trip across Tennessee, it failed to capitalize on the best driving roads.

Volkswagen’s approach to regenerative braking did not include one-pedal driving. Instead, the ID.4 coasted in its default regen setting, with a more aggressive “B” setting available, though it stopped short of one-pedal functionality. While this might disappoint some EV enthusiasts, it provided a more familiar experience for first-time EV drivers.

The 2023 Mustang Mach-E combined the functionality of a crossover SUV with the visual appeal of a Mustang. It accommodated up to five passengers and offered 34.1 cubic feet of cargo space, including a sizable front trunk (frunk). The GT version featured eight-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, wrapped in premium black ActiveX artificial leather with black Miko synthetic suede inserts in the standard GT. The Performance Edition upgraded to performance seats with gray ActiveX and Miko upholstery.

A stylish tiered center console, incorporating a mix of covered and open storage areas, separated the front seats. A lower storage tray beneath the console added more space. Unlike the traditional gas-fueled Mustang coupe or convertible, the Mach-E could comfortably carry rear-seat passengers. The panoramic glass roof, standard on the GT, provided an airy environment with a scenic view for rear-seat passengers.

The rear cargo hold under the liftgate offered 29.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 59.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The frunk added another 4.7 cubic feet of cargo area, designed to accommodate messier items with a drain plug for easy cleaning.

The Volkswagen ID.4 lived up to its SUV designation with ample interior space compared to other affordable EVs. It offered more front- and rear-seat legroom than models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV.

With 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, the ID.4 outclassed many entry-level EVs in terms of cargo capacity. Although it fell short when compared to gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, it remained a practical choice among affordable EVs.

In terms of towing, the ID.4 provided modest capabilities with a quoted towing capacity of 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. While not suited for towing large boats, these figures added to its versatility.

VW introduced small interior tweaks for 2023, enhancing functionality. The center console now included a conventional lid and a better phone spot between the cupholders and storage bin. Three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats became available, further elevating passenger comfort.

The Mustang Mach-E featured a prominent 15.5-inch vertically mounted touchscreen, running on Ford’s Sync 4A infotainment platform. While the screen’s physical integration into the dashboard was somewhat awkward, it offered an extensive array of features. These included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect services with Wi-Fi hotspot access, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, navigation, and wireless smartphone charging. Some of these required a paid subscription after a complimentary trial period.

Sync 4A personalized user experience by learning habits and predictively suggesting destinations and frequently used apps. The touchscreen controlled everything from the dual-zone automatic climate control system to detailed energy usage data. While comprehensive, Ford’s streamlined user interface minimized frustration. Additionally, Sync 4A supported natural voice recognition, successfully interpreting most conversational commands.

The Bang & Olufsen premium sound system impressed, delivering high-quality audio performance, and standard across all Mach-E models was a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display. This display provided key data, including vehicle speed, battery charge, remaining range, and driving assistance system status.

Phone As A Key technology enabled unlocking, starting, and driving the Mach-E using a smartphone, making the bulky keyfob optional. The seamless integration of modern technology into the Mach-E made it appealing to tech-savvy drivers.

For 2023, the Volkswagen ID.4 upgraded its infotainment system standardizing a 12.0-inch touchscreen across all models, replacing the previous 10.0-inch screen on lower trims. Software updates enhanced responsiveness, and standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster.

Despite the software updates, the system’s user experience remained consistent with previous models. It offered sharp graphics, an intuitive smartphone-like interface, and natural-language voice recognition for simple command phrases. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel, replacing conventional buttons, remained less satisfactory due to the lack of tactile feedback, which could be distracting. The voice recognition system became a preferred alternative for many commands.

The carryover ID.Light function served as both ambient lighting and an AI assistant, changing colors to indicate drive modes or navigation turns. Despite its clever design, it was easily overlooked among the myriad visual and audio alerts from various driver aids.

The 2023 Mustang Mach-E came equipped with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 technology, standard across all models, along with the latest version of BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system. BlueCruise 1.2 for 2023 introduced lane-change functionality, predictive speed assist, and the ability to reposition the Mach-E within its lane to give larger adjacent vehicles more space.

During extensive testing on Southern California highways, BlueCruise 1.2 navigated construction zones and lane shifts, automatically changed lanes to bypass slower vehicles, and adjusted within the lane for larger trucks. However, it sometimes prompted driver control without apparent reasons, particularly under challenging conditions like direct sunlight. The lack of a head-up display and the sole reliance on digital instrumentation for communicating BlueCruise status was noted as areas for improvement.

The IIHS awarded the Mustang Mach-E top marks in most crash assessments, earning it a Top Safety Pick for 2022. However, the accolade for 2023 was pending at the review time. Unfortunately, NHTSA crash-test ratings for the 2023 model were incomplete, highlighting the need to check the NHTSA website for updates.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top marks in frontal and side crash tests and four stars in rollover crash tests. While 2023 IIHS ratings were pending, the 2022 model had earned the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with excellent scores across all assessments except for an “Average” rating for standard headlights and a “Good” score for Pro S model headlights.

The ID.4 featured a strong suite of standard driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear park distance control, automatic high beams, traffic-sign recognition, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0 with adaptive cruise control and lane centering. Emergency Assist 3.0 was also standard, automatically pulling the vehicle over if the driver was incapacitated. For 2023, the ID.4 included Park Assist Plus automated parking, an automated lane-change feature for Travel Assist, and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing its safety credentials.