2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

2023 Volkswagen ID.4
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
$38,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Mazda CX-5
2024 Mazda CX-5
$29,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
$38,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Mazda CX-5
$29,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$38,995

MSRP

$29,300

Average price

$28,939

Average price

$28,966

Listings

494

Listings

2151

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Unintuitive technology
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Premium interior materials
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy (Turbo models)
  • Not much cargo space
  • Outdated technology

2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Reviews Summary

The Volkswagen ID.4 is still relatively new to the marketplace (it debuted for the 2021 model year) but VW is already making some important updates to keep it competitive and fulfill goals set when this compact electric SUV first launched.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 adds a new base model and a smaller 62-kilowatt-hour battery pack alongside the carryover 82-kWh to increase affordability. VW will also begin sourcing cars for its United States dealerships from the same Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory that builds the gasoline-powered Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The automaker has been discussing this since the ID.4 was unveiled, but at first cars for the U.S. came from Zwickau, Germany.

The 2023 ID.4 retains single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain options, but gets revised exterior and interior styling, some software changes, and a few more standard tech features and driver aids.

The new-for-2023 base model is dubbed ID.4 Standard, slotting below the ID.4 S, ID.4 Pro, ID.4 Pro S, and ID.4 Pro S Plus trim levels (the Pro S Plus replaces the Gradient appearance package from previous model years). We recently spent a day driving a Pro S AWD model from Nashville to Chattanooga, along with a shorter drive in an ID.4 Standard model.

2024 Mazda CX-5 Reviews Summary

Though Mazda hasn’t redesigned its popular compact crossover SUV since 2017, a program of continuous refinement makes the 2024 CX-5 better than ever. It might even be too good. It has shared showroom space with the similarly sized Mazda CX-50 model since last year but continues to outsell its newer and slightly more expensive sibling. As it turns out, there are numerous reasons for that.

Verdict: Mazda positions the CX-5 as an SUV for active urbanites, and it serves perfectly in its role. Stylish design, taut dimensions, excellent outward visibility, a comfortable cabin, commendable quality, and impressive safety ratings make it a great choice. Plus, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 is genuinely enjoyable to drive.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

201 hp Electric

Engine

2.5L 187 hp I4

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

Horsepower

187 hp @ 6000 rpm

EV Battery Capacity

62 kWh

EV Battery Capacity

MPG City

115

MPG City

26

MPG Highway

99

MPG Highway

31
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
$38,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Mazda CX-5
2024 Mazda CX-5
$29,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
$38,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Mazda CX-5
$29,300MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$38,995
$29,300
Average price
$28,939
$28,966
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.3
5.0
Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Read full review

7.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Unintuitive technology
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Premium interior materials
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy (Turbo models)
  • Not much cargo space
  • Outdated technology
Summary

The Volkswagen ID.4 is still relatively new to the marketplace (it debuted for the 2021 model year) but VW is already making some important updates to keep it competitive and fulfill goals set when this compact electric SUV first launched.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 adds a new base model and a smaller 62-kilowatt-hour battery pack alongside the carryover 82-kWh to increase affordability. VW will also begin sourcing cars for its United States dealerships from the same Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory that builds the gasoline-powered Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The automaker has been discussing this since the ID.4 was unveiled, but at first cars for the U.S. came from Zwickau, Germany.

The 2023 ID.4 retains single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain options, but gets revised exterior and interior styling, some software changes, and a few more standard tech features and driver aids.

The new-for-2023 base model is dubbed ID.4 Standard, slotting below the ID.4 S, ID.4 Pro, ID.4 Pro S, and ID.4 Pro S Plus trim levels (the Pro S Plus replaces the Gradient appearance package from previous model years). We recently spent a day driving a Pro S AWD model from Nashville to Chattanooga, along with a shorter drive in an ID.4 Standard model.

Though Mazda hasn’t redesigned its popular compact crossover SUV since 2017, a program of continuous refinement makes the 2024 CX-5 better than ever. It might even be too good. It has shared showroom space with the similarly sized Mazda CX-50 model since last year but continues to outsell its newer and slightly more expensive sibling. As it turns out, there are numerous reasons for that.

Verdict: Mazda positions the CX-5 as an SUV for active urbanites, and it serves perfectly in its role. Stylish design, taut dimensions, excellent outward visibility, a comfortable cabin, commendable quality, and impressive safety ratings make it a great choice. Plus, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 is genuinely enjoyable to drive.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
201 hp Electric
2.5L 187 hp I4
Drive Train
RWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
187 hp @ 6000 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
62 kWh
MPG City
115
26
MPG Highway
99
31
Look and feel
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
8/10
2024 Mazda CX-5
9/10

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including 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 those attracted to conventional SUV styling. 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. The base ID.4 Standard model included leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers, maintaining a high standard of interior quality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, with minor updates. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, adding a modern touch to the classic Mazda styling. The CX-5 lineup included various trims, with the 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models offering different engine options. The interior was upgraded over the years, providing a premium feel with features like heated and ventilated seats. Despite being smaller in interior space compared to some rivals, the CX-5 offered a comfortable and upscale cabin experience, with thoughtful design elements and quality materials.

Performance
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
8/10
2024 Mazda CX-5
8/10

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a 62-kWh battery 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 lb-ft 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 pack 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 driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. On regular gas, it provided 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, and the CX-5 was not particularly fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined. The CX-5 offered excellent outward visibility and a confident driving experience, with a re-tuned suspension for a smoother ride and standard AWD. It featured Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus for enhanced cornering and stability, making it enjoyable on various terrains, including off-road trails with its 7.9 inches of ground clearance.

Form and function
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
7/10
2024 Mazda CX-5
7/10

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 also had a towing capacity of 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 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats, with the driver’s seat offering six-way power adjustment. The interior was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful design elements like padded console sides. The CX-5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded. While smaller than some competitors, the CX-5’s cabin quality and design elevated it above many mass-market rivals, providing a near-luxury experience.

Technology
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
7/10
2024 Mazda CX-5
7/10

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering improved software responsiveness and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system featured sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while driving. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a center console knob, with quick-access buttons for main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and safety services, while several trims included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, enhancing the premium feel of the interior.

Safety
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
9/10
2024 Mazda CX-5
8/10

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. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0, with additional features like Park Assist Plus and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with standard ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 previously held a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it did not receive it in 2024. The NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

Cost Effectiveness
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
8/10
2024 Mazda CX-5
7/10

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2024 Mazda CX-5 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is recommended for its slightly higher overall score, offering a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a strong suite of safety features.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2024 Mazda CX-5 scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is recommended for its slightly higher overall score, offering a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a strong suite of safety features.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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