2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with a price tag of $42,083, presented a fully-loaded package that seemed excessive for a RAV4. Despite its high-end features, the vehicle's appearance did not distinguish it from a standard rental car model. The RAV4 Hybrid lacked the larger wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart and missed out on an Adventure trim level due to its electronic AWD system's limitations. Nevertheless, the RAV4 Hybrid maintained a rugged look, with a need for bolder wheels to enhance its tough appearance. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid combined style and practicality, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A minor rattle from the license plate was noted, but overall, the interior was functional and user-friendly.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, designed as an EV from the ground up, showcased a distinctive look that set it apart from Volkswagen's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, offering a unique aesthetic compared to the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of VW's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it didn't resemble a traditional SUV, the ID.4's design was in line with other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalism with a tech-focused design, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, while higher trims offered leatherette upholstery.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided standard AWD and offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, with instant electric-motor torque making it feel lively. The EPA rated it at 40 mpg in combined driving, and it averaged 39.7 mpg in testing. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension design and Active Cornering Assist system contributed to its agreeable ride and handling, though the tires lacked grip in corners. Overall, it was a comfortable daily driver with off-road capability.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 launched with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery. It was the first RWD Volkswagen passenger car in the U.S. since the Beetle, with an AWD version arriving later in 2021. The RWD setup provided balanced handling, while the AWD version increased power to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride but noticeable body roll in corners. Regenerative braking was less aggressive, relying on friction brakes for a familiar driving experience. The ID.4 was not designed for one-pedal driving, focusing instead on coasting efficiency.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom and foot space were decent, with reclining backrests and heated cushions. The dashboard layout was intuitive, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy 37.5 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more front headroom than its gasoline counterparts but had average legroom. It offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a frunk, prioritizing cabin space instead. Visibility was good from the driver's seat, though rearward visibility was hindered by thick pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and a narrow center console with limited storage. Heated seats and a steering wheel were standard, providing efficient cabin heating.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system, dynamic navigation, and voice recognition. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view system and a rearview camera mirror.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch option, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing traditional controls. The system was challenging to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. A natural-language voice-control system allowed for easier operation, though it was slow to respond. The ID.Light feature provided visual cues but was more of a novelty. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with intuitive menus and smart graphics.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping aids. The RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for the RWD model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were new additions, enhancing lane-centering and driver incapacitation detection.