2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 showcased 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 now 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 aesthetics. 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 was designed specifically for electric vehicles, offering modularity to support various models. The interior retained the quality and minimalist design seen in recent VW gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery and recycled fiber inserts standard for 2023. The base ID.4 Standard model, despite having a manual driver’s seat, did not feel like a significant downgrade from the higher-level ID.4 Pro S, maintaining a sense of quality and comfort.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC, a best-seller in the US, underwent a generational redesign with a cautious approach to maintain its loyal fanbase. The new GLC SUV featured updated taillights and a revised rear design, while the GLC Coupe retained its steeply sloping profile. The headlights were narrower and more menacing, and the taillights were connected by a trim piece across the back. The GLC’s grille distinguished the AMG models from the GLC 300, with performance models featuring vertical bars reminiscent of a pinstriped baseball uniform.

Inside, the GLC’s cabin was sumptuous, with a driver-focused layout and an abundance of screens, buttons, and ambient lighting. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 SUV test car boasted two-tone leather upholstery and an optional wood-and-metal dash treatment. Despite being at the lower end of Mercedes’ pricing spectrum, the GLC was heavy on gadgetry, offering a class-leading interior for those who appreciated a tech-laden environment.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base Standard and S models, available only with rear-wheel drive (RWD). The Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models retained the 82-kWh pack, with options for RWD or all-wheel drive (AWD). Single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while dual-motor AWD models increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, enhancing acceleration and handling. However, the ID.4’s handling was not as sharp as its acceleration, allowing too much body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present, but VW opted for a more traditional driving experience, stopping short of one-pedal driving.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation’s 385 hp V6. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system assisted the engine, with a plug-in hybrid AMG GLC 63 expected in 2025. The base GLC 300 offered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, with RWD standard and AWD available for an additional cost. Both powertrains used a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 featuring the AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed for faster shifts. The performance suspension provided improved handling but resulted in a firmer ride, making it less suitable for commuters. Enthusiasts, however, would appreciate the sporty nature and standard four-wheel steering.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample front and rear-seat 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, surpassing most entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in interior space, it was practical for an affordable EV. 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.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC’s cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver’s seat. The GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe was tighter, with 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet with the seats down. Standard features included power-folding rear seats, heated front seats, and memory functions. Optional features included front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats.

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 standard. The user interface included 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 assistance, though it was easily overlooked.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. The system included a responsive voice command system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, and an off-road dash display. The Pinnacle trim included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. Optional tech features included an Advanced USB package.

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 received 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. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, automated lane-change, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an “Acceptable” rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, blind-spot assist, and Pre-Safe. Optional features in the Driver Assistance Package included adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.