2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a more traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch. It seamlessly integrated with the rest of the Volvo lineup, featuring signature elements like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a retro touch with an optional white contrasting roof. The XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. Despite these subtle differences, the Recharge maintained a low profile, appealing to those who preferred understated electric vehicles. The interior was minimalist yet premium, with real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a cohesive and upscale environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan embraced a conservative yet timeless design, with creased and symmetrical lines that aligned it with Volkswagen’s larger models. The refreshed front styling included a new grille with the updated VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan offered four trim levels in Canada, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and featured a sportier look in the R-Line models. The interior of the Highline R-Line trim was notably upscale, with perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and touch-sensing controls. However, the hard plastic in the lower cabin hinted at its mass-market status. The Tiguan’s design updates added a touch of flair, ensuring it remained appealing until its next redesign.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T4 model delivered 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the T5 variant offered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasting dual electric motors for AWD, producing a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. It utilized a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, providing a 0-100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds. All versions were electronically limited to 180 km/h. The XC40 emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality and the option for one-pedal driving in the Recharge model. Notably, the Recharge could tow up to 900 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 pound-feet of torque at 1,900 rpm. Power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. The Tiguan offered Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, along with Onroad, Snow, Offroad, and Custom Offroad settings. Despite its 19 centimetres of ground clearance, the Tiguan was best suited for well-traveled paths. The engine’s torque arrived later than some competitors, resulting in slight turbo lag. While the Tiguan was enjoyable to drive, it lacked the power and performance some might expect. Fuel efficiency was rated at 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a test drive averaging 9.5 L/100 km. The Tiguan’s ride and handling were competent, though not particularly thrilling.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in its Recharge and gasoline variants, offered no difference in passenger or cargo space. However, it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, with limited legroom and a smaller cargo area. The Recharge’s frunk was also minimal due to powertrain components. Despite this, Volvo incorporated clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the centre console and a bag hook in the glovebox door. The Harman Kardon audio system’s speakers were moved to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. A wireless charging pad was optional, but second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out for its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It even offered an optional third row. The Highline R-Line trim provided exceptional comfort, with leather-wrapped, power-adjustable front seats and excellent outward visibility. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children alike. The Tiguan’s cargo space was among the best in its class, with 1,064 litres behind the back seat and a maximum of 2,078 litres in the two-row configuration. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging, as they were harder to use than traditional buttons.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, offering Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system boasted a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Recharge models also had OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. Notably, the Recharge lacked a start button, relying on a key fob for operation.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line featuring a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in all but the base Trendline, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The Highline R-Line offered a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. However, the natural voice recognition feature was disappointing, and users were encouraged to use smartphone integration instead. The Tiguan also offered an available Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with the gasoline model earning a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The electric Recharge model was expected to perform well in crash tests due to its safety cage and redesigned front crash structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, allowing for future driver aid advancements.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard Front Assist and Side Assist features. It introduced Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, and Emergency Assist, which could safely stop the vehicle if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model’s improved features were expected to enhance its safety score.