Hi there! As an electric vehicle industry analyst and longtime EV owner myself, I know firsthand how confusing it can be to parse through the specs and features of the latest models. With so many new electric SUV options hitting showrooms, it‘s tough to determine which one best aligns with your needs and budget.
Well today I’m going to make it easy by providing a comprehensive head-to-head comparison between two compelling electric crossovers — the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 and the 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV. Both VW and Chevy have invested heavily in these mainstream EVs, using them to anchor the automakers‘ electric transitions. Let‘s cut through the jargon and marketing hype to see how they stack up where it really counts!
An Overview of Volkswagen and GM’s Electric Strategies
As context, the ID.4 and Bolt EUV represent the first long-range models designed from the outset specifically for battery-electric propulsion from both brands. Building EVs on dedicated platforms engineered for electrification (rather than converted gas car architectures) unlocks enormous efficiency benefits.
For example, VW’s flexible MEB platform underpinning the ID.4 places the battery packs flat below the cabin. This creates a spacious interior and low center of gravity for improved handling. GM’s BEV2 architecture is similar, though it carries over some components from existing vehicles to reduce costs.
These electric SUVs also spearhead larger business transformations centered around zero-emissions transportation. VW Group plans to unleash 70 different battery electric models by 2030, targeting at least half its global volume as EVs by then. General Motors aspires to eliminate tailpipe emissions from all light-duty vehicles by 2035, supported by a $35 billion infrastructure investment.
So in many ways, the ID.4 and Bolt EUV embody the electric future visions of both brands. Now let’s examine how they compare!
Detailed Specifications and Technical Details
I’ll kick things off by overviewing some key technical specifications for our two electric SUV contenders:
| Specification | 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 | 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 82 kWh | 65 kWh |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium-ion NMC | Lithium-ion NMC |
| Electric Motor | Rear: 201 hp / 228 lb-ft AWD: 295 hp / 339 lb-ft |
200 hp / 266 lb-ft |
| Drive Configuration | RWD or AWD | FWD |
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | 6.5 sec – 7.5 sec | 6.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 99 mph | 93 mph |
| Steering | Variable ratio rack electric power steering | Electric power rack steering |
| Brakes | Ventilated discs | Discs front and rear |
| Charging System | 11 kW AC onboard / 125 kW DC max | 7.2 kW AC onboard / 55 kW DC max |
| Charging Time (10-80%) | 38 minutes at 125 kW | 65 minutes at 55 kW |
| Charging Time (240V L2) | 7 hrs 30 min | 7 hrs |
| Max Driving Range | 275 miles | 247 miles |
| Length / Width | 180.5 in / 72.9 in | 169.5 in / 69.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 108.9 in | 105.3 in |
| Cargo Capacity (rear seats up/down) | 30.3 cu ft / 64.2 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft / 56.9 cu ft |
| Base Price | $41,190 | $28,195 |
Phew, that’s certainly a whole bunch of numbers to parse through! Let me break down some key takeaways:
- The ID.4 boasts 300+ miles of range courtesy of its larger 82 kWh battery back. Owners can expect over 200 trouble-free miles from a full charge.
- With a maximum 125 kW charging rate, the ID.4 also replenishes its battery twice as fast as the Bolt EUV.
- All-wheel drive capability gives the VW more all-weather traction, though the Bolt EUV is no slouch with ample torque on tap.
- Interior dimensions favor the ID.4, especially regarding rear seat space and cargo flexibility.
- At around $13,000 cheaper before incentives, the Chevy carries a substantial base price advantage.
Now let’s see how these impressive specs translate out on real roads!
Range and Efficiency Showdown
Scoring an EPA-rated 275 miles of maximum driving distance, the rear-wheel drive Volkswagen ID.4 Pro promises nearly 28 more miles from its 82 kWh battery compared to the 247 mile Chevy Bolt EUV. Does this advantage hold up in typical driving conditions?
Independent test results say…pretty much!
In aPACKED city/highway evaluation by the experts at InsideEVs, an ID.4 Pro traveled 236 miles on full charge at an average 3 miles per kWh efficiency. That’s darn close to its EPA rating and reflects very respectable range. Comparatively, their Bolt EUV finished at 208 miles while averaging 2.9 mi/kWh.
So while the Chevy nips at VW’s heels for battery efficiency, the ID.4’s extra battery capacity really shows its benefit in extended real-world range. Given most drivers stick within a 50 mile radius on average days, either SUV provides plenty of buffer. But the peace of mind from that added range cushion could prove worthwhile for road trippers or those with erratic commutes.
Real-World Range Winner: Volkswagen ID.4
Charging Comparison
Range itself represents only half the equation. The other critical piece relates to charging speed and accessibility. Fortunately both German and American automakers deliver compelling EV charging solutions for their electric SUVs.
| Charging Metric | 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 | 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Charging Rate | 125 kW | 55 kW |
| 10 min Fast Charge Add | 54 miles | 25 miles |
| 30 min Fast Charge Add | 158 miles | 95 miles |
| 80% Fast Charge Time | 38 minutes | 65 minutes |
| 7.2 kW L2 Charge Time 0-100% | ~7.5 hours | ~7 hours |
Clearly with its 125 kW maximum charging capability from beefy DC fast chargers, the ID.4 outguns its Chevy rival and can replenish long distances remarkably fast. In just 40 minutes or so, VW drivers will power up enough for over 200+ miles of travel. Impressively quick for any EV!
I’ll counter though that the Bolt EUV’s 55 kW rate still adds substantial range quickly for most drivers’ needs. Plus Chevy provides two years free charging access to 35,000 public charging plugs across North America. That’s a handy perk Volkswagen sadly can’t match.
For overnight top-ups using a 240-volt home or public Level 2 charger, both electric SUVs fill their batteries in around 7 hours, no problem.
When it comes to public infrastructure access, Volkswagen ID.4 owners enjoy three years of complimentary fast charging at 535 Electrify America locations dotted nationwide. Combined with all other available DC fast chargers compatible with the ID.4’s CCS plug type, finding a quick charge is easy breezy.
Tesla’s vast proprietary Supercharger network with over 1,400 fast charging sites nationally even opens its plugs to Chevy and VW EV owners with a basic CHAdeMO adapter. Given the rapidly expanding alternatives, range or charging anxiety proves largely unfounded for most ID.4 or Bolt EUV drivers.
Charging Speed Winner: Volkswagen ID.4
Public Charging Access: Essentially Equal
Performance and Handling Comparison
Dynamically both electric SUVs promise peppy acceleration and agile handling free of engine noise or vibration. Instant torque from electric motors allows the Bolt EUV to zip from 0-60 mph in just 6.3 seconds — slightly quicker than the ID.4. Around town where it matters, the Chevy’s punchy 266 lb-ft leaves little wanting.
At higher speeds the ID.4’s low center of gravity inherent to its dedicated EV architecture allows confident corner carving and stability. An independent multi-link rear suspension soaks up bumps that upset most compact crossovers. Early reliability surveys show no prevalent issues with motors, batteries or electrical components in either vehicle — a promising indicator.
Nimble and steady daily transportation aptly sums up both EVs on the pavement. Neither will set enthusiasts’ hearts racing, though Volkswagen hints that a 300+ hp ID.4 GTX performance variant could appear soon. For now, driving enthusiasts should also check out Ford’s electric Mustang Mach-E or Tesla’s Model Y.
Performance and Handling Winner: Volkswagen ID.4
Interior Comfort and Cargo Flexibility Comparison
As this is getting lengthy, I’ll consolidate my analysis of interior quarters and cargo flexibility into one section. Thanks to flat battery packs and minimal mechanical components, both EVs dish up airy cabin space on par with much larger SUVs. Five adults can road trip comfortably in either the ID.4 or Bolt EUV, no problem.
Rear seat passengers may appreciate the extra head and legroom in VW’s back bench, however. Clever packaging also gives ID.4 owners way more cargo capacity both with rear seats deployed or folded. I managed to cram two large roller bags, a stroller and camera gear inside my ID.4 for a recent trip. So while cozy in back, the Bolt EUV works fine for small families or couples based on its flexible layout.
Passenger Room and Cargo Volume Winner: Volkswagen ID.4
Technology and Connectivity Comparison
As with any modern vehicle, cabin tech and infotainment are essential for providing information and entertainment on the move. Volkswagen and Chevrolet incorporate color touchscreens with support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in both electric SUVs. This allows easy content streaming from your phone to access navigation, music, podcasts and more through ID.4 or Bolt EUV displays.
Reviewers praise Chevy’s intuitive menus and one-touch voice activation as being a cut above most systems. VW’s laggy haptic touch buttons occasionally receive criticism, though a sweeping software overhaul is in the works. Multiple USB ports supply device charging for all passengers’ gear in both EVs.
Only Volkswagen however equips an augmented reality heads-up display to broadcast navigation prompts and speed info directly in the driver’s line of sight. And a huge panoramic glass sunroof further brightens things for ID.4 riders. Expect both automakers to deliver over-the-air software enhancements over the next few years as the vehicles age.
Technology and Cabin Connectivity Winner: Tie
Safety and Autonomous Driving Comparison
As family vehicles, occupant protection and collision avoidance systems rightfully earn high priority. Here Volkswagen’s ID.4 shines with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety bestowing a Top Safety Pick + designation — indicating its collision structure and airbags provide excellent crash protection. VW also equips the ID.4 standard with blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.
Likewise the Chevy Bolt EUV performs well under crash testing, albeit falling just shy of the IIHS’ top nod. A rear seat belt reminder joins lane departure warning and front pedestrian braking standard. However Chevy fights back by offering its superb Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance program on higher Bolt EUV trims.
Super Cruise builds on adaptive cruise control by allowing true hands-free driving on mapped highways via vehicle sensors and GPS data monitoring. Both automakers plan to expand semi-autonomous drive aids through future software updates. For now VW holds the safety edge while Chevy boasts the most advanced autonomy.
Safety tech: Volkswagen ID.4 Winner
Autonomous driving: Chevy Bolt EUV Winner
Ownership Costs and Value Comparison
Sticker prices clearly favor the Chevy Bolt EUV, with its $28,195 base model undercutting the ID.4 by over $13,000 before any incentives or tax credits apply. Even when equipped to the gills, a top-spec Bolt EUV stays below $43,000 — granting a substantial value edge over VW’s crossover.
Thankfully both EVs qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit plus any applicable local or state rebates. In California for example, total purchase discounts can exceed $13,500! Estimated charging costs per 100 miles barely exceed $10 for either plug-in model.
And with free scheduled maintenance included for two years/24,000 miles, the Bolt EUV provides extra peace of mind for budget-focused buyers. Strong predicted reliability ratings for GM’s proven drivetrain components add confidence as well. However early data shows ID.4s retaining several more percentage points of their original value over three years of ownership — something to consider.
All said, the Bolt EUV keeps dollars in owners’ wallets better than nearly any other electric crossover. For cost-conscious EV shoppers, Chevy’s value equation hits the mark.
Ownership Value Winner: Chevy Bolt EUV
The Verdict: Volkswagen ID.4 vs Chevy Bolt EUV
So there we have it — an in-depth comparison covering all the major factors important to EV buyers. Both Chevy and Volkswagen have delivered phenomenal mainstream electric SUVs sized and priced appropriately for mass adoption. Honestly, you can’t go wrong picking either plug-in crossover.
For shoppers wanting a sharp and upscale instrument panel mated to a sophisticated drivetrain that delivers a premium vehicle experience, the Volkswagen ID.4 shines. Its combination of style, cabin space, technology and driver engagement mostly justify paying extra. Free fast charging and exceptional safety ratings add peace of mind as well.
Yet I have to hand victory in this comparison to the Chevrolet Bolt EUV that excels at serving up extreme value wrapped in a practical package. Abundant torque and nimble maneuvers prove you don’t need to spend big for EV excitement. With plenty of range and space for daily commutes, the Bolt EUV embodies affordable electric transportation done right.
Whether you prefer German engineering or All-American sensibilities, both the VW ID.4 and Chevy Bolt EUV scope out the electric future in style. I hope this detailed guide helps orient your buying decision. Feel free to reach out with any other questions!
