2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, last redesigned in 2018 and refreshed in 2022, entered 2023 without significant updates. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. Despite its luxurious appearance, the chrome plastic on some switchgear failed to convey the high-end feel expected. The interior, predominantly black with real wood trim and chrome accents, was upscale but struggled to maintain a clean look.

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 quality materials. The base ID.4 Standard model, despite its manual driver’s seat, did not feel like a significant downgrade from the higher-level Pro S trim. Leatherette upholstery with recycled fiber inserts was standard, enhancing the eco-friendly appeal of the vehicle.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD drivetrain. The test vehicle had an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg combined but averaged 15.6 mpg during testing. The Navigator offered five drive modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with an additional Hill Climb mode available with the towing package. Despite its adaptive damping suspension, the Navigator’s ride quality was inconsistent, feeling truck-like over smaller bumps and floating over larger dips. Excite mode improved handling but negatively impacted fuel efficiency.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery pack options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base Standard and S models with RWD, and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models with RWD or AWD. 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, enhancing acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4’s handling was not as sharp as its acceleration, allowing too much body roll on twisty roads. The regenerative braking system did not support one-pedal driving, providing a more familiar experience for new EV drivers.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for additional cargo space. The test vehicle featured 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs provided a pass-through to the third-row seat, which accommodated taller adults comfortably. Storage space was generous, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The extended-length Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front-seat and rear-seat legroom and headroom. The ID.4 offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in terms of interior space, it was the most practical among entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with a quoted capacity of 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Small interior changes for 2023 improved functionality, including a conventional lid for the center console and a better spot for a phone.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, Lincoln Connect services, a navigation system with enhanced voice recognition, and Alexa Built-in. The test vehicle also had a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System and Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system. However, the wireless smartphone charger overheated the phone, and the rear-seat entertainment system was ignored by teenagers.

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, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster and ID.Light ambient lighting system were also standard. The haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were distracting, but the voice recognition system mitigated this issue. The ID.Light system provided visual cues for navigation and drive modes, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, including advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise hands-free driving assist. BlueCruise worked on designated Hands-Free Blue Zones but struggled with curves, mixed pavement surfaces, and construction zones. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in frontal and side crash tests and four stars in rollover crash tests. The 2022 model received the IIHS’ highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with top scores in all crash tests and front crash prevention ratings. The ID.4 came standard with driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. For 2023, the ID.4 added standard Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.