2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Kia Sorento

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 a more conventional SUV look. 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 boasted a minimalist design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibers, providing a premium feel even in the base model.

The 2024 Kia Sorento underwent its first major visual update since its 2021 debut, adopting design cues from the popular Telluride and EV9. The Sorento's exterior featured a bold new grille, vertically-stacked LED headlights, and updated taillights, giving it a more robust and contemporary look. The interior was revamped with a new dashboard and combined gauge and infotainment displays under a single pane of glass. The Sorento's cabin materials were upgraded, offering a more luxurious feel, with options for green and brown interior colors. The Sorento's trims remained the same, but the rugged X-Line package was now available only on higher models, and the new X-Pro trim offered enhanced off-road capabilities.

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 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's regenerative braking system allowed for coasting in its default setting, with a more aggressive "B" setting that stopped short of one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Kia Sorento retained its mechanical components, with the base engine being a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine struggled with the Sorento's weight, taking nearly 10 seconds to reach 60 mph. Higher trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission. Turbocharged models achieved 0-60 mph in the mid-seven-second range. The Sorento offered FWD as standard, with AWD available as an option, providing additional ground clearance and off-road capabilities. The new X-Pro trim featured 17-inch rims with all-terrain tires, enhancing off-road performance and towing capacity.

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, making it practical for an entry-level EV. The ID.4's 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 2024 Kia Sorento's cabin was comfortable in the first two rows, though tight in the third. It offered more legroom in the front and second rows than many two-row SUVs, with optional heated and ventilated front seats. The third row provided 29.6 inches of legroom, suitable for children. Cargo space was limited to 12.6 cubic feet with the third row in use, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Sorento's new dashboard was ergonomic, with ample small-item storage, and higher trims featured a power liftgate.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring software updates for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation cues.

The 2024 Kia Sorento adopted a single-pane, twin-screen setup for its gauge and infotainment displays, with a 12.3-inch screen standard across all trims. The new "Connected Car Navigation Cockpit" software prioritized popular features on the home screen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard. The system supported over-the-air updates and included USB-C outlets in all rows. Higher trims featured a Bose 12-speaker audio system and Digital Key 2.0 for keyless access.

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 Kia Sorento's Drivewise suite offered an extensive array of standard and optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included surround-view cameras and a rear-view camera mirror. The Sorento earned "Good" ratings in several IIHS tests, though its LATCH system received an "Acceptable" rating. The NHTSA had not yet evaluated the 2024 model.