Subaru Outback vs Volkswagen ID.4

People love crossover SUVs because they drive like cars but provide the utility of an SUV, and the Subaru Outback was one of the first modern crossovers when it went on sale almost 30 years ago.

Now, the 2023 Subaru Outback gets several updates. The improvements include fresh styling, new infotainment and safety technologies, and a more accessible price point for the popular Onyx Edition, which features blacked-out exterior trim and water-resistant upholstery.

These changes to the 2023 Outback build on the momentum established by the rugged Subaru Outback Wilderness, which debuted last year.

Thanks to a new, more powerful rear-drive motor, increased driving range to nearly 300 miles, a next-generation infotainment system with substantial user-experience improvements, and a handful of comfort and convenience upgrades, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 is a better electric SUV than before. However, it no longer includes complimentary DC fast charging for three years. Instead, you get up to 500 kWh of free charging, after which you’ll pay to play.

Verdict: While the downgrade in free charging is a bummer, the updated 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 is not. With the technology better sorted, improved comfort, an impressive sound system, and more power, performance, and range, VeeDub’s electric SUV need not make apologies.

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