2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colors were introduced, and the rear VW logo now lights up. Despite these changes, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance but lacked the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which could be a drawback for some buyers. The interior carried over the best qualities from recent VW gasoline models, featuring a minimalist design and high-quality materials, even in the base ID.4 Standard model.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, adopting a more rugged and substantial appearance. The new model was larger in every dimension compared to its predecessor, fitting well with the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which included a taller ride height, unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route but remained attractive and functional, with elevated materials quality. The Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic that was preferred over the previous generation.

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 available 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, improving acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4 allowed too much body roll to be truly entertaining on twisty roads, though it was comfortable and refined for long drives. The regenerative braking system did not support one-pedal driving, which might disappoint some EV enthusiasts.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and a pleasant engine sound when pushed. The brake pedal was soft but easy to modulate, providing smooth stops. The Pilot handled well for a three-row SUV, with noticeable but manageable body roll. The TrailSport trim added an inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort. The steering was light, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces but feeling somewhat vague on the highway.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front and rear 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, surpassing most entry-level EVs but falling short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. 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 available three-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and heated outboard rear seats.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda models, featuring a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level LX and Sport trims had a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Elite trim included a head-up display and a fully digital instrument panel. The Pilot offered plenty of clever storage solutions, including a large rubberized shelf, wide center console bin, and front door pockets with large cupholders. The stowable second-row center seat provided a useful pass-through for third-row passengers. The second row had ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity ranged from 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row to 114.3 cubic feet with all seats folded, offering significantly more space than competitors like the Kia Telluride.

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.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, though the voice recognition system mitigated this issue.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and higher offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims also included a multi-view camera system, with the Elite trim adding a head-up display and fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional with quick responses and a logical layout. Additional features included Honda's CabinTalk PA system, navigation, Bose premium audio, remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The TrailSport and Elite trims featured the TrailWatch camera system for enhanced off-road awareness.

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 received the IIHS' highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in all crash tests and high ratings for front crash prevention. 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 automated parking, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but Honda expected top scores. The Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign reader, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and front and rear parking sensors, while the TrailSport and Elite trims included surround-view and multi-view camera systems. The advanced safety features functioned well, with no false alarms during testing.