2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented look with 20-inch wheels and unique styling elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models added sporty touches like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was lacking, with limited lumbar support and difficulty in finding an ideal driving position.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan, following updates in 2022, remained largely unchanged. It was available in several trims, including the sportier R-Line versions. The Tiguan offered a range of exterior and interior colour options, though choices were limited by trim level. Our test vehicle featured Atlantic Blue paint and Storm Grey leather seats, a combination not available in Canada. The Tiguan's design was conservatively drawn but aging gracefully, with features like adaptive front lighting and a light bar across the grille. Inside, the cabin was upscale with quality materials, digital instrumentation, and a panoramic sunroof. The Tiguan's construction felt solid, though some materials reminded of its mid-$30,000s base price. The interior controls, however, were criticized for their touch-sensing design, which hampered usability.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid added electric motors for a combined 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics and a disappointing engine note. The F Sport models included adaptive suspension and additional drive modes, but changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections well. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 12.2 L/100 km city, 9.0 highway, and 10.8 combined, with the hybrid offering better efficiency.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system was standard in Canada, with various driving modes available. The Tiguan's fuel economy was estimated at 9.8 L/100 km combined, though our testing showed 10.4 L/100 km. The Tiguan's powertrain was adequate but lacked power at higher revs, with noticeable turbo lag. However, its dynamic qualities were rewarding, with excellent tire grip and stable handling. The ride was compliant, and the Tiguan provided good road feel. Visibility was excellent, and the vehicle was easy to park, aided by features like a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, with comfortable seating for four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for passengers and cargo. Cargo capacity in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row version offered 210 litres with all seats up, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, though the cargo area had a high load-in height.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in passenger and cargo space, with large rear door openings and a spacious back seat. The test vehicle's front seats were comfortable, with power adjustments and heating. The dashboard's touch-sensing controls were criticized for poor ergonomics. The Tiguan's cargo area was generous, with 1,064 litres behind the second row and 2,078 litres with the seats folded. The hands-free power liftgate and adjustable load floor added convenience. The Tiguan's AWD models offered more cargo space without a third-row seat.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. The infotainment system's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, with access issues due to the design. The touchpad control was hypersensitive and unintuitive. Despite these challenges, the RX offered a range of tech features, including USB ports, smartphone integration, wireless charging, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan included digital instrumentation, with R-Line trims featuring a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system had an 8-inch touchscreen with touch-sensitive buttons and physical knobs. The system's user interface was complex, with multi-step processes for simple tasks. Voice recognition was limited, and the touch-sensing controls were distracting. However, the Tiguan offered features like wireless smartphone integration, a premium sound system, and connected services.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but its headlights prevented a higher designation. The NHTSA gave it four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan offered comprehensive safety features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, and an Automatic Post Collision Braking System. The IQ.Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Tiguan's safety technology was effective and unobtrusive. However, NHTSA testing was incomplete, and the IIHS rating for 2023 was not available at the time of writing.