Buick Encore GX vs Volkswagen ID.4

The 2024 Buick Encore GX stood out as one of Buick's best-looking models in a while, drawing inspiration from the striking Wildcat concept of 2022. This heavily refreshed 2024 version featured a completely new face, starting with the sleekly designed daytime running lights positioned above the new grill, which were complemented by angular LED lamps placed slightly lower on either side. The introduction of a new Buick logo alongside these changes added to the fresh appeal. Our top-tier Avenir-trim test vehicle sported a unique grill design and some chrome trim that emphasized its prestige. From the rear, changes were subtle compared to the 2023 model, with the major update being new LED tail lights on the upper trims. Overall, it was a visually appealing package, especially with the optional 19-inch wheels.

Color options for the Buick Encore GX included bold choices beyond the usual grays and beiges. Enthusiasts could choose from vibrant reds, deep blues, or maroon shades, and there was even a striking Copper Ice Metallic almost-orange hue. Some colors offered options like a black roof, mirrors, and roof rails, enhancing the sporty and modern look.

Inside, the significant transformation was the repositioning of the HVAC vents to accommodate a new 19-inch glass panel housing the digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Though some small gripes arose when the car was running, the glass panel contributed a premium, tech-savvy look. However, the use of some cheap-feeling plastics and limited color choices of only black or cream reminded drivers of the vehicle's price point.

The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, in contrast, was renowned for its conservative but timeless design that aged gracefully. Without overt drama, it had a clean aesthetic. For 2024, AWD versions boasted standard 20-inch wheels, while the S Plus trim was fitted with a 21-inch design.

The lineup of the ID.4 was a bit intricate. Two models, the ID.4 and ID.4 Pro, were offered, distinguished by their battery sizes—62-kWh for the ID.4 and 82-kWh for the ID.4 Pro. There were three trims: base, S, and S Plus, with AWD available for the Pro models. Prices varied from an MSRP of $39,735 to $57,055, plus a destination charge of $1,425. Furthermore, ID.4s equipped with batteries from SK On qualified for a full $7,500 federal tax credit.

Every 2024 ID.4 came with 500 kWh of free DC fast charging at Electrify America (EA) stations and a complimentary three-year EA Pass+ membership. We tested an ID.4 Pro S, equipped with the larger battery and RWD, priced at $51,815 before the $7,500 credit.

With interior options changing from last year's Cosmic treatment, 2024 brought choices of Cosmic Black or Galaxy artificial leather for S and S Plus trims. The standard models retained choices between Nutmeg/Brown and Stone/Black fabric with artificial leather bolsters. Adjustments to interior control placements, a revised transmission shift stalk, and new steering wheel controls were notable updates. Additionally, the ID.4 Pro benefited from a new 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with better usability and ventilated front seats in the higher trims.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX retained its previous powertrain setup. It was available in FWD or AWD, with the base Preferred trim featuring a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine delivering 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT.

Other trims offered an optional 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. This turbocharged engine made the vehicle more responsive, accelerating to 60 mph in roughly nine seconds. However, the engine could be a bit rough on take-off, and highway passing required patience. The transmission's reluctance to downshift on demand could result in delays, which might be mitigated by a manual control option.

Despite these performance nuances, the Encore GX excelled as a city car with its smooth suspension absorbing rough pavement effectively. It featured a selectable AWD system, providing the driver control over when to engage AWD and thus potentially saving fuel. However, competitive models like the Honda HR-V could default to FWD with automated AWD engagement, offering more convenience.

On the other hand, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 showcased advancements in EV performance. The new rear electric drive motor for single-motor Pro (82 kWh) models produced 282 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in a claimed 5.9 seconds, significantly quicker than the previous model. The 62-kWh models retained the older motor with 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque.

With AWD, the ID.4 Pro received an additional front motor, totaling 335 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. This configuration provided excellent traction and acceleration.

Range and charging capabilities improved as well. The 2024 ID.4 Pro RWD offered an EPA-rated 291-mile range, while the AWD variant provided 263 miles. The standard models' 62-kWh battery had an estimated 206-mile range. For charging, both battery sizes were compatible with 11-kW Level 2 home chargers and capable of DC fast charging, with the larger battery pack accepting up to 175 kW. VW claimed that any ID.4 could recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

During our testing in Pasadena, California, the ID.4 Pro S RWD exhibited improved acceleration, seamless freeway merging, and effortless mountain driving. However, at higher speeds, increased road noise was a drawback. Its firm ride was manageable, and regenerative braking felt natural, though it wasn’t a one-pedal driving system.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX, while a subcompact SUV, aligned well with its competition in terms of utility. It had a towing capacity of just 1,000 pounds, but it featured an available hands-free liftgate for ease of loading. Behind the rear seats, it offered 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Impressively, folding down the front seat allowed the accommodation of items up to eight feet in length.

The interior included available features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel, though seat ventilation was not offered. Standard power-adjustable seats were only two-way, with eight-way adjustable seats available in the top Avenir trim or through the Comfort package.

The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4's interior revisions made it more user-friendly and comfortable. The move of the transmission selector and wiper controls enhanced ease of use, though touch-sensing controls still posed occasional issues. The Pro models featured a new 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with enhanced usability.

Comfort-wise, the ID.4 Pro S and Pro S Plus added new ventilated front seats, ideal for hot climates. Standard heated front seats, side mirrors, and washer nozzles, along with available features like a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats, ensured a comfortable cabin environment.

In terms of cargo, the ID.4 outperformed the Encore GX. It provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Unlike some EV competitors, the ID.4 did not include a front trunk (frunk).

The 2024 Buick Encore GX's technology centered on an 11-inch touchscreen coupled with an 8-inch digital gauge cluster under a single glass pane. While visually appealing, much of the screen area went unused, sometimes creating a misleading appearance of malfunction. However, the system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB-A and USB-C ports, and an available wireless charging pad and 120-volt outlet. The rear camera mirror, providing a wide-angle video feed, was a notable feature.

The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, meanwhile, introduced an upgraded 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system for Pro models. Although graphically simpler, it offered a more user-friendly experience, with a home screen featuring customizable data panels and persistent climate control visibility. Volume and temperature sliders were illuminated for nighttime use.

The ID.4 also featured a battery preconditioning function for optimized DC fast charging, an available nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and gesture control. Voice assistant functionality, though occasionally inconsistent, added value. Standard connectivity options included three years of Plus Nav and Plus Speech access, alongside five years of Car-Net connected services for remote operation and emergency assistance.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX included a standard Driver Confidence package featuring lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, a following distance indicator, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring was standard across all trims. However, advanced features like rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera were optional.

Unique to Buick, the Encore GX offered Teen Driver and Buckle to Drive features. Teen Driver allowed parents to monitor and receive reports on their teen’s driving habits, while Buckle to Drive prevented the car from shifting out of park unless the driver's seat belt was fastened.

The NHTSA awarded the 2024 Encore GX a five-star overall safety rating, including top marks in frontal and side crash tests, though it earned four stars for rollover resistance. The 2024 model hadn't been rated by the IIHS at the time of review, but the 2023 version received favorable ratings in crashworthiness and front crash prevention, though headlight and LATCH system ratings varied.

Conversely, every 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 came equipped with a post-collision braking system and Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive package of advanced driver assistance features, including Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities, managing following distance and lane-centering effectively during brief trials.

The ID.4's semi-autonomous parking assist system, featuring Memory Parking, added convenience for repeatedly used parking maneuvers. In crash testing, the ID.4 received favorable ratings from the NHTSA, though IIHS evaluations were incomplete.