2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Volkswagen made significant efforts to distinguish the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 and the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport with stylistic choices, reflecting their differing characters and utility. The 2023 ID.4 featured subtle enhancements in the exterior design. VW opted for gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more angular, square finish to the rear bumper, presumably to enhance aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colors were also introduced, complemented by a rear VW logo that lights up.

Though marketed as an SUV, the ID.4's design leaned heavily towards an EV aesthetic rather than the conventional SUV ruggedness. It lacked the upright posture and increased ground clearance typical of traditional SUVs. This design direction might have been a gamble for Volkswagen, as these characteristics significantly influence the appeal among SUV enthusiasts. Its platform, the MEB, was crafted specifically for EVs, providing a modular foundation also destined to underpin future models such as the upcoming ID.Buzz electric van.

Internally, the 2023 ID.4 benefited from a minimalist and high-quality design, sharing the excellence found in VW's gasoline counterparts. Even the base Standard model did not feel like a substantial downgrade from higher trims, offering leatherette upholstery with recycled fiber inserts, reinforcing its premium yet eco-friendly approach.

Conversely, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport embraced a bolder approach with its American-centric design. Styled similarly to its three-row sibling, the Atlas, the Cross Sport incorporated illuminated VW logos on the front grille and tailgate, a lighting feature transitioned from the ID.4. A front light bar connected the new LED headlights, contributing to its distinct appearance.

The Cross Sport was 5.2 inches shorter than the standard Atlas and sported a lower, more coupe-like roofline, aligning with trends seen in German luxury crossovers. New wheel designs featured across all trims—from 18-inch on the base SE to 21-inch wheels on the top-tier SEL Premium R-Line, with unique sportier elements for the R-Line trims.

Inside, the Cross Sport continued the Atlas's refinements, introducing a raised center console, and an upright central touchscreen. Leatherette trim was standard, with leather and diamond-quilted options available at higher trims.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery packs: a new 62-kWh for the base Standard and S models, and the existing 82-kWh pack for the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models, supporting both RWD and AWD configurations. Across all battery configurations, the single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. The dual-motor AWD variants elevated performance with 295 hp and 339 lb-ft torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds per VW's claims.

The reduction of 240 pounds in curb weight with the smaller battery supposedly promised improved handling and acceleration, making the 62-kWh ID.4 Standard feel agile in urban settings. The AWD variant shared acceleration dynamics with the VW Golf GTI and Golf R, though it lacked their level of handling finesse, allowing noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking did not offer one-pedal driving, aiming for a balance more comfortable for EV newcomers.

For 2024, the Atlas Cross Sport transitioned to a singular powertrain option—a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic, available in FWD or optional AWD. This engine produced 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft torque, delivering peak torque at a lower 1,550 rpm compared to the previous VR6 engine. Despite a slight dip in horsepower from 276 hp, the increased torque and earlier peak were positioned to enhance overall performance.

While the noise from the turbo-four revealed the engine's hard work, its performance was considered an upgrade for many, as it replaced a less potent turbo-four (235 hp, 258 lb-ft torque) predominantly used previously. Nevertheless, the drive lacked excitement, neither benefiting from sporty engagement nor offering a plush ride quality, particularly when fitted with the optional 21-inch wheels.

Towing capacity remained at a maximum of 5,000 pounds, with the base SE trim pulling a lower 2,000 pounds, comparable among midsize crossovers, though short of more capable tow vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

In terms of interior space and cargo capacity, the 2023 ID.4 proved quite practical within its segment. It boasted superior front and rear legroom compared to rival EVs like the Chevy Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, along with better headroom than the Nissan Leaf and Kia Niro EV. The ID.4's cargo space measured 30.3 cubic feet with rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with seats folded, offering competitive capacity against entry-level EVs. While falling short of the spacious interiors of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the ID.4 still provided functional versatility with a moderate towing capacity of up to 2,700 pounds depending on the drivetrain.

Interior enhancements included a traditional center console lid improving storage utility, and new features like three-zone climate control with rear-seat adjustability.

The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport offered updates that increased its standard equipment. The base SE trim included heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated, ventilated front seats. The SE with Technology added a power liftgate and tow hitch, heated second-row seats, and leather upholstery standard on the SEL trim.

Front headroom in the Cross Sport was comparable to rivals, though its stylish roofline compromised rear headroom, making the back seats slightly cramped. However, legroom remained competitive, providing ample space in the front. Cargo capacity measured a generous 40.3 cubic feet with rear seats up, expanding to 77.6 cubic feet with seats folded, outperforming many rivals yet closely matched to the Honda Passport.

The cabin offered practical storage in its revamped center console and ample door pockets, making effective use of its space with features such as large cupholders and multiple drink bottle spaces.

Technological advancements defined both models, starting with the 2023 ID.4, which received a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen across all trims, replacing the prior 10.0-inch on lower trims. Upgraded software facilitated better responsiveness, and standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster.

However, the user interface retained its contentious haptic touchpads, which lacked tactile feedback and proved potentially distracting. Voice commands mitigated this issue, offering a hands-free alternative for most simple tasks. The ID.Light system continued, integrating ambient lighting and navigation guidance functions.

The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport also introduced a good deal of standard tech upgrades, featuring a 12-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless charging was standard, four USB-C ports (expandable to six), a USB-C dash cam port, and a head-up display on SEL trims enhanced convenience.

Despite similar praises for screen functionality and graphic quality, the haptic touchpads presented the same usability issues noted in the ID.4. Audio systems shifted from Fender to Harman Kardon for the premium SEL Premium R-Line trim, delivering a superior auditory experience with a 12-speaker setup.

Safety ratings and features effectively positioned both models as competitive choices. The NHTSA awarded the 2023 ID.4 a five-star overall rating, excelling in frontal and side crash tests but receiving four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS granted the 2022 ID.4 its top "Top Safety Pick+" rating, projecting confidence in the 2023 version’s structural integrity and technology. Additions for 2023 included Park Assist Plus, automated lane-change capabilities, and a 360-degree camera system.

Similarly, the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with identical side-impact results and slightly lower frontal and rollover scores. While awaiting IIHS ratings for the 2024 model, the previous year’s structure performed well, suggesting a faithful continuation in safety performance.

The IQ.Drive package became standard across all trim levels, encompassing an extensive suite of aids like forward collision warning, automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Travel Assist. Higher trims enjoyed enhancements like predictive adaptive cruise control, park assist, and a surround-view camera system.