2024 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

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, though it lacked the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which could be a drawback for buyers seeking those attributes. The ID.4 was built on VW’s MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, and shared interior qualities with VW’s gasoline models, offering a minimalist design and quality feel, even in the base model.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX, inspired by the Wildcat concept, boasted a refreshed look with a new face, sleek daytime running lights, and angular LED lamps. The Avenir trim featured a unique grille and chrome trim, while the rear received new LED tail lights on higher trims. The Encore GX offered vibrant color options, including red, blue, maroon, and Copper Ice Metallic, with the possibility of a black roof and mirrors. Inside, the most significant change was a 19-inch glass panel housing the digital gauge cluster and touchscreen, giving the interior a premium look, though some cheap-feeling plastics were present.

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 VW opted for a more traditional driving experience rather than one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX retained its powertrain options, with a base 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. An optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine offered 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine provided adequate responsiveness, reaching 60 mph in about nine seconds, though highway passing required patience due to transmission hesitation. The Encore GX excelled as a city car with a smooth suspension and selectable AWD, though competitors offered more seamless AWD systems.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more legroom and headroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with RWD models towing up to 2,200 pounds and AWD models up to 2,700 pounds. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX, as a subcompact SUV, offered 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. It could accommodate items up to eight feet long with the front seat folded. Available features included heated seats and a heated steering wheel, though seat ventilation was absent. Standard seats were two-way power-adjustable, with eight-way adjustability available on higher trims. A seven-speaker Bose audio system was also an option.

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 user interface featured sharp graphics and voice recognition, though haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX featured an 11-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch digital gauge cluster under one glass pane. While visually appealing, the screen had unused space, creating a perception of malfunction. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt outlet. The Encore GX offered a simple infotainment system with basic features, including a rear camera mirror for enhanced rear visibility.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model earned the IIHS’ “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with high 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 2024 Buick Encore GX came with the standard Driver Confidence package, including lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like rear park assist and adaptive cruise control were optional. Unique safety features included Teen Driver, which monitored young drivers’ habits, and Buckle to Drive, preventing shifting out of park without a fastened seatbelt. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in crash tests.