2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its modern updates, retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. The signature Lexus spindle grille, running lights, and triple-beam LED headlights were the main distinguishing features. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, showcasing the smooth refinement Lexus was known for. The interior was quiet, with only the faint sound of the V8 engine audible. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan, following updates in 2022, remained largely unchanged. It was offered in Trendline, Comfortline, Comfortline R-Line Black, and Highline R-Line trims in Canada, with prices between $36,675 and $47,175, plus a $2,050 destination charge. The Tiguan's exterior offered six colours, four interior colours, and four alloy wheel designs, but choices were limited by trim level. Our test vehicle featured Atlantic Blue paint and Storm Grey leather seats, a combination not available in Canada unless ordered in the Highline R-Line trim. The Tiguan's design was conservative yet aging gracefully, with sporty 20-inch wheels and adaptive front lighting.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This setup allowed the GX to accelerate to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds and tow up to 2,948 kilograms. The six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, distributing power 40% to the front and 60% to the rear wheels. The GX's drag coefficient was 0.35, contributing to a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System enhanced stability, while the Premium Package added off-road features like Multi-Terrain Select.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the 4Motion AWD system was standard, offering various driving modes. The Tiguan's fuel economy was estimated at 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, though our test returned 10.4 L/100 km. The Tiguan's powertrain was adequate but lacked high-rev power, with some turbo lag and transmission delays. However, its dynamic qualities were rewarding, with excellent tire grip and stable handling. The Tiguan's ride was compliant, with good road feel and nimble steering.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable, though the steering was slow. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, but some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The rear seat was spacious, but the third row was cramped and reduced cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate was cumbersome, and cargo capacity was limited to 1,833 litres with seats folded.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan provided a roomy interior with comfortable front seats offering eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The dashboard's touch-sensing controls were problematic, but the Tiguan excelled in passenger and cargo space. The rear seat was spacious, with generous legroom and amenities. The hands-free power liftgate revealed a large cargo area, with 1,064 litres behind the second row and 2,078 litres with seats folded. The Tiguan's cargo space was comparable to some midsize SUVs, though the third-row seat reduced capacity.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and a CD player. The system offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition. Intuitive Parking Assist was standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan had digital instrumentation, with R-Line trims featuring a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system varied by trim, with an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a Fender premium sound system. However, the system's user interface was complex, with sub-menus and touch-sensing controls causing distractions. The voice-recognition system underperformed, likely due to inactive subscriptions.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in safety features, with standard Front Assist and Side Assist, including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The IQ.Drive package added adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving assist. The Tiguan's safety technology was effective and unobtrusive. However, crash-test ratings were incomplete, with concerns about the driver's door unlatching during a side-impact test. The IIHS gave the 2023 Tiguan a Top Safety Pick+ rating for 2022, but this did not apply for 2023.