2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical lines. The refreshed front styling aligned it with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan offered a range of trims in Canada, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and prices varied from $33,395 to $43,395. The R-Line models boasted a sportier look, with the Highline R-Line showcasing a sophisticated interior with leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting. Despite its upscale appearance, the use of hard plastics revealed its mass-market status.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 maintained a sharp and modern appearance, with an expressive front featuring LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille. The body styling was marked by crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights. The Q5 PHEV stood out with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, including standard 19-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 offered a classy and modern cabin with high-quality materials, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and a well-organized layout. The second row was comfortably appointed, and the overall fit and finish were exceptional.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission paired with VW’s 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. Despite its nimble handling, the Tiguan’s performance was hindered by turbo lag and a lack of power, resulting in a fuel efficiency of 9.8 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced its performance with a 14.1-kWh battery, adding 114 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque to the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The combined output reached 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, allowing for a 0-100 km/h time of 5.3 seconds. The Q5 PHEV achieved impressive fuel efficiency, with 4.7 L-e/100 km combined. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro AWD and offered various driving modes, including electric-only and hybrid. The Q5’s handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs, with an optional third row. The Highline R-Line trim provided comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent visibility. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children alike. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV managed its battery pack efficiently, maintaining 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,503 litres with it folded. The second row offered ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, comfortably seating two adults. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage spaces and an uncluttered design.

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, Car-Net services, and smartphone mirroring. The Highline R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. However, the voice recognition system was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV boasted a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus. The customizable instrument panel, combined with ambient lighting, elevated the cabin’s tech appeal. The Q5 featured a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with available Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, while Emergency Assist could safely stop the vehicle if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, ABS with brake assist, and various driver-assistance systems like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.