2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colors were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. Despite its electric vehicle identity, the ID.4 did not embody the traditional SUV look, lacking the upright profile and ground clearance typical of SUVs. This design choice was similar to other EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which also blurred the lines between hatchback and SUV. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 shared its modularity with various models, promising versatility. Inside, the ID.4 maintained a minimalist design with quality materials, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers as standard.

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door variant. The Sasquatch Package, a popular upgrade, enhanced its rugged appearance with a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires. The Bronco offered nine trim levels, including the Raptor performance model, and a choice between two-door and four-door body styles. Prices ranged from $41,525 to $91,930, with the Big Bend trim being the new standard. The interior featured marine-grade upholstery, an 8-inch digital display, and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Bronco's design allowed for an open-air experience with removable roof panels and doors, providing versatility for adventurous drivers.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a 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. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for coasting in its default setting, offering a familiar driving experience for newcomers to EVs.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend came with a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft, while the Raptor's 3.0-liter V6 offered 418 hp and 440 lb-ft. The Bronco's part-time 4WD system and various off-roading technologies, such as Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist, enhanced its capability on challenging terrain. However, the Bronco's fuel efficiency was a concern, with the Big Bend Sasquatch averaging 16.9 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample interior space, surpassing other affordable EVs in 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 them folded. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in interior space, it excelled among entry-level EVs. The ID.4's towing capacity ranged from 2,200 pounds for RWD models to 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, particularly in the four-door configuration, provided a spacious interior, accommodating four adults comfortably. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery, while durable, trapped moisture, making cloth seats a preferable option. The Bronco's two-door models featured a standard hardtop with removable panels, while the four-door offered a soft top with an optional hardtop. Cargo space varied, with the two-door offering 22.4 cubic feet and the four-door providing up to 83 cubic feet with seats folded. The Bronco's interior storage was enhanced by MOLLE panels for customizable solutions.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite software updates, the infotainment system's haptic touchpads remained a point of contention, lacking physical feedback. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Ford Bronco featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Sync 4, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system experienced connectivity issues and inconsistent voice recognition performance. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps, enhancing its off-road appeal. The 8-inch digital instrumentation panel required a short learning curve but was ultimately user-friendly.

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's IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating suggested similar safety performance for 2023. Standard driver-assist features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0, with new additions like Park Assist Plus and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend included standard safety features such as forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, enhancing safety and maneuverability. The Bronco four-door received favorable IIHS ratings, except for its headlight performance, while NHTSA ratings were incomplete, with a four-star frontal-impact rating.