2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a front bumper with gloss black trim and a more squared-off rear bumper to improve aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colors were introduced, and the rear VW logo now lights up. Despite these changes, the ID.4 didn't look particularly SUV-like, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance typical of traditional SUVs. This could be a drawback for buyers attracted to those features. However, the ID.4's interior maintained a minimalist design with a quality feel, even in the base model, which included leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibers.

The 2023 Ford Bronco, available in nine distinct trims, combined retro-cool styling with modern engineering. Its blocky shape, wide grille, and round headlights were unmistakable. The Base trim had a primitive look with steel wheels, while the Raptor trim showcased a wide stance and massive tires. The Heritage trim added nostalgic touches like a white grille and plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's rugged interior featured sealed switches, drain plugs, and marine-grade vinyl upholstery, making it easy to clean after off-road adventures. The interior materials prioritized durability over luxury, and the vehicle was quieter than a Jeep Wrangler.

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 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, improving 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, which might disappoint some EV enthusiasts.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 in the Raptor with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All engines came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The base four-cylinder engine was adequate for most driving scenarios, while the 2.7-liter V6 was better suited for the heavier four-door model. The Raptor's engine provided excessive power, enhancing the driving experience. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than typical SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. Its high-riding dimensions required careful handling on curving roads, but the vehicle felt confident overall.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front and rear legroom and headroom. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also had a towing capacity of 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, a better phone spot, and three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape maximized interior space, with ample room in both the front and back. The four-door model was more practical for shuttling passengers, while the two-door required some effort to access the rear seats. The Bronco featured netted door pockets, a rubberized tray for phones, and accessory rails atop the dash. The two-door model offered up to 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 52.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The four-door model provided 35.6 cubic feet, increasing to 77.6 cubic feet. However, the rear seats did not fold flat, creating a step-up that hindered sliding longer cargo and sleeping. The fenders and doors were easily removable for hardcore off-roaders.

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. However, the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were distracting, lacking physical feedback. Voice recognition was a more convenient alternative for controlling various functions.

The 2023 Ford Bronco utilized technology to enhance its off-road capabilities. The G.O.A.T. drive modes optimized engine and suspension settings for different terrains, making it easier for novices to navigate challenging conditions. Experienced off-roaders could manually select features like transfer case gearing and sway-bar disconnects. The Bronco's numerous camera views and Trail Turn Assist feature were invaluable in tight spots. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 12-inch display for better usability.

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 tests. The 2022 model earned the IIHS' highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in all crash tests except for an "Average" rating for standard headlights. The ID.4's standard driver-assist features included 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. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's NHTSA ratings included four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded the four-door Bronco a "Good" rating in most crashworthiness tests, with an "Acceptable" score for head restraints and seats. Standard safety features included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, hill-start assist, hill-descent control, trailer-sway assist, and Trail Turn Assist. The Mid package added blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, rear parking sensors, and automatic high beams. The High package included front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system, while the Luxe package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist.