2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, presented a fresh design opportunity, unburdened by a legacy of design language. It successfully integrated the brand's signature styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and Quad Lamp LED headlights, into its elegant two-box design. The GV80's exterior was marked by its long hood, short front overhang, and distinctive wheel arches, which housed aluminum-alloy wheels ranging from 19 to 22 inches. The rear design mirrored the front with Quad Lamp taillights and twin trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan maintained a conservative yet timeless design, aligning with Volkswagen's larger models like the Atlas. The refreshed front styling included a new grille with the updated VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's exterior was complemented by redesigned aluminum wheels and new nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate. Inside, the Tiguan Highline R-Line featured a rich cabin with perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and touch-sensing controls. Despite the upscale appearance, the use of hard plastics in the lower cabin areas revealed its mass-market status. The Tiguan's design was practical and understated, appealing to those who appreciate simplicity and minimalism.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's 3.5T models featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview and an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced performance. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan continued with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW's 4Motion AWD system. The Tiguan offered driving modes such as Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. Despite its modest power output, the Tiguan provided a nimble and responsive driving experience, though it exhibited some turbo lag. Fuel efficiency was rated at 9.8 L/100 km combined for R-Line models. The Tiguan's ride and handling were competent, though not particularly sporty.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The centre console housed a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row offered ample space for two adults, with power-adjustable seats and climate control. A third row was standard on 3.5T models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was a blend of luxury and functionality, with features like power rear-door closure and a sunroof.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact SUVs for its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. The Highline R-Line trim offered leather-wrapped, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. The second row provided generous headroom and legroom, accommodating adults and children alike. The Tiguan's cargo space was impressive, with up to 2,078 litres available in two-row configuration. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. The Tiguan's interior was practical and comfortable, with a focus on space and versatility.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured the sixth-generation Genesis UX, with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable profiles. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while the GV80 provided five years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims. The audio system ranged from a standard nine-speaker setup to a 21-speaker Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line featuring a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, App-Connect smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM radio. The Highline R-Line offered a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. Despite improvements, the MIB3's natural voice recognition was underwhelming. The Tiguan also offered Park Assist for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with 10 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, and a suite of driver assistance features such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and Highway-driving assist for enhanced safety and convenience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with available Travel Assist and Emergency Assist for advanced safety. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, while Emergency Assist could bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements aimed to enhance its safety credentials.