2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch alloy wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner. The only other exterior change for 2021 was the addition of standard LED headlights for models that previously lacked them. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim gave the Palisade a more luxurious appearance, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. While opinions on its design varied, the Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy was undeniably more upscale than its price suggested, both inside and out. The interior, with its quilted Nappa leather and suede headliner, offered a level of luxury that outshone other midsize three-row SUVs, making it a genuine bargain at its sticker price.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was designed as an electric vehicle from the ground up, showcasing a distinctive look that set it apart from Volkswagen's gasoline models. It replaced the straight lines and sharp angles of the Tiguan and Atlas with a streamlined profile and wheels pushed to the corners. The ID.4 was part of VW's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, the ID.4's SUV-like styling was less pronounced compared to traditional SUVs. The interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a smartphone aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade achieved a fuel efficiency of 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its suspension provided excellent body-motion control, offering a firmer feel akin to a traditional SUV without harsh impacts. While not designed for outright fun, the Palisade was sure-footed and confidence-inspiring on twisty roads. It was easy to drive in urban and suburban environments, with ample power and user-friendly steering and braking. The Palisade also boasted a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4's rear-wheel drive setup provided balanced handling, although it was tuned for comfort rather than sportiness. It exhibited body roll in corners but delivered a smooth ride over bumps. The electric motor's instantaneous torque made acceleration enjoyable, but the ID.4 did not support one-pedal driving, relying on friction brakes for stopping. Volkswagen aimed to provide a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline cars.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, seating, and accessibility. It offered eight-way power-adjustable seats for the driver and passenger, with additional features like an adjustable thigh support cushion and a heated steering wheel. The front and second-row seats were heated and ventilated, while third-row passengers had separate climate controls and sunshades. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and support, sliding to accommodate passengers and cargo. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class. The Palisade offered generous in-cabin storage, with a spacious front centre console and door panels. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third-row seats, expanding to 1,297 litres with them folded, and 2,447 litres with the second-row seats down. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, although it could be disabled if desired.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, although legroom was average for the segment. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. While lacking a "frunk," the ID.4 prioritized cabin space, resulting in a spacious interior from the driver's seat. Forward visibility was good, but rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars and a small back window. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector on the dashboard, freeing up space on the centre console. However, the console was narrow, limiting storage for larger items. Heated steering wheel and front seats were standard, providing efficient cabin heating during cold weather. The seats offered cushioning, but the driver's seat lacked thigh support, leading to an uncomfortable seating position.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen requiring a wired connection. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included features like SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, Blue Link connected services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While lacking a WiFi hotspot, the Palisade's voice-recognition technology worked well, and the audio quality was impressive. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode for rear-seat passengers. A head-up display (HUD) and surround-view camera system enhanced convenience and safety.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen (optional 12-inch) featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display screen served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing traditional controls. While visually appealing, the touchpads lacked tactile feedback, making them challenging to use while driving. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system, allowing drivers to bypass haptic controls. The ID.Light feature added a futuristic touch, providing visual cues for various functions. Despite some gimmicky features, the ID.4's infotainment system was well-positioned, with intuitive menus and smart graphics.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, offering features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping systems. A rear occupant alert system reminded drivers to check the back seat, with an ultrasonic version available on most trims. Active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, along with Safe Exit Assist, enhanced safety. The Highway Driving Assist system provided adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance, although it required hands-on driving. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring protection in the event of a collision.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered driver aids like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. New features included Travel Assist, which added automated lane centring, and Emergency Assist, designed to stop the car if the driver is incapacitated. Travel Assist performed well, smoothly following curves and responding to acceleration and deceleration.