2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a 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 was illuminated. Despite these changes, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance. This design choice was similar to other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. The ID.4 was built on VW’s MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, offering a modular approach similar to the MQB platform used in other VW models. Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist and quality-focused design from VW’s gasoline cars, with leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibers as a standard feature.

The 2023 Subaru Forester retained its familiar design, reminiscent of previous models, especially in the Cascade Green Silica paint. Available in six trims, the Forester ranged from $26,395 to $36,495, excluding destination charges. The Touring trim, priced at $37,720, featured 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim, along with robust roof rails capable of supporting a tent. Inside, the Forester Touring offered Saddle Brown leather, exposed stitching, and metallic accents, maintaining a traditional Subaru design with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. The interior was practical, with a mix of buttons and knobs for easy control, though the overall appearance was busy. Despite its back-to-basics nature, the Forester was appreciated for its functionality and ease of use.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery 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 delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD powertrain increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, enhancing acceleration and handling. The ID.4 provided a comfortable ride but allowed too much body roll for spirited driving. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional experience for new EV drivers.

The 2023 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The CVT mimicked a traditional automatic with eight programmed ratios, and the SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode for quicker responses. Most trims included X-Mode for off-road traction, with additional settings in higher trims. The Forester Wilderness trim was particularly capable off-road. During testing in challenging weather, the Forester Touring demonstrated confidence and ease in adverse conditions. On dry roads, the Forester’s driving dynamics impressed, with a comfortable yet communicative ride and responsive handling. However, the engine was merely adequate, and fuel economy fell short of expectations, prompting a desire for a turbocharged or hybrid option.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with superior front and rear legroom compared to the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. Cargo space was 30.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, it was practical for an EV. Towing capacity was 2,200 pounds for RWD models and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated elements in the Premium trim. Higher trims added StarTex or genuine leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. The Forester excelled in outward visibility, with high seating and large windows. Entry and exit were easy, though the panoramic sunroof lacked sufficient tinting, causing solar heating issues. The rear seats offered ample space but lacked comfort for longer trips. Interior storage was plentiful, with well-sealed doors and a practical cargo area. Cargo capacity was 26.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.1 cubic feet with them folded, average for the segment.

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 as standard features. The user interface included sharp graphics and voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light feature provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, though it was easily overlooked.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto on the Base trim. Higher trims added satellite radio, HD Radio, and Starlink connected services. An 8-inch touchscreen was available, along with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The user interface was straightforward, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs and buttons. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation and other tasks.

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, similar to the 2023 version, earned the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick+ rating, with top scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced the next-generation EyeSight system with improved software and cameras. Models with blind-spot monitoring added Automatic Emergency Steering. Rear Automatic Braking was available on higher trims, though it could be overly sensitive. The Touring trim featured DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with an Acceptable rating in a new side-impact test and a Marginal rating in a small-overlap frontal test. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall, with a four-star rollover rating.