2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Chrysler Pacifica

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, which could be a drawback for buyers seeking those attributes. However, this was a common trait among many electric vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modular EV architecture with future models like the ID.Buzz electric van. Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist and quality-focused design of VW’s gasoline models, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers and a manual driver’s seat in the base model, without feeling like a significant downgrade from higher trims.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica, while not newly redesigned, continued to present a contemporary exterior that contrasted with its competitors. Its smooth styling and modest grille offered a more understated alternative to the flashier Toyota Sienna, and unlike the Kia Carnival, Chrysler didn’t attempt to mimic an SUV look. The Pacifica’s clean design was enhanced by hidden sliding-door tracks, avoiding the need for additional styling features. Available in various trims, including the base Touring and the luxurious Pinnacle, the Pacifica offered standard LED lighting and a range of wheel options. The S Appearance and Road Tripper Packages added unique exterior and interior trims. Inside, the Pacifica’s dashboard featured a minimalist, sculpted design with well-integrated controls, although some elements, like the rotary shift knob, were less refined. The Pinnacle trim boasted luxurious touches like Nappa leather upholstery and second-row pillows, but the overall interior quality varied across trim levels.

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 models increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its spirited performance, the ID.4’s handling was more comfortable than sporty, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but didn’t support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 287 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD available on higher trims. The V6, known as the Pentastar, was a versatile engine used across Stellantis’ lineup, providing sufficient power for the minivan and a towing capacity of 3,600 pounds. The Pacifica’s chassis prioritized comfort and stability, with a suspension that smoothed out road imperfections. However, some weight transfer was noticeable during acceleration and deceleration. The Pacifica maintained Chrysler’s reputation for offering a step above mainstream vehicles, delivering a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered generous interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in 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 them folded, making it practical compared to entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in interior space, it was a standout among affordable 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 for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage, along with available three-zone climate control.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica featured the innovative Stow ‘n Go seating, allowing second-row seats to fold flat into the floor, creating large storage bins. The standard configuration included second-row bucket seats and a 60/40 split-folding third-row bench, accommodating seven passengers. An eight-seat option was available with the Touring L trim but couldn’t be combined with Stow ‘n Go or AWD. Pinnacle and Limited models offered a power-folding third-row seat and a power liftgate. The Pacifica’s passenger space was competitive, with ample headroom and legroom across all rows. Cargo space was substantial, with 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 140.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. The Stow ‘n Vac built-in vacuum cleaner was available on select trims, providing convenience for cleaning the interior.

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 was also standard. Despite updates, the user experience was hampered by haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel, which lacked physical feedback. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues but was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The instrument cluster included analog gauges with a 7-inch digital display. Up to 12 USB-C ports were available, along with built-in navigation and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The Uconnect 5 system was intuitive, though lacking a shortcut for the 360-degree camera view. The Pacifica also offered a rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV connectivity and a FamCam rear-facing camera for monitoring rear passengers.

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 with adaptive cruise control and lane centering. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, missing the Top Safety Pick+ award due to lower scores in updated crash tests and middling ratings for headlights and front crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included a 360-degree camera system and park assist. New for 2024 was an Emergency Vehicle Alert System integrated with the Uconnect infotainment system.