2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical lines. This approach, while not overly emotive, appealed to those who appreciated simplicity and minimalism. The refreshed front styling aligned the Tiguan with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The SUV was available in four trim levels in Canada, all equipped with standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The R-Line models offered a sportier appearance, 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 plastic in the lower cabin areas hinted at its mass-market status.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's high-quality craftsmanship, maintaining the brand's signature design elements like the kidney grille. The X5's exterior was unmistakably BMW, though it risked blending in with other models in crowded spaces. The SUV featured full adaptive LED headlights and offered different styling options, including the sporty M Sport package. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, utilizing parts from the brand's extensive catalogue. While the interior was not shoddy, the abundance of black plastic was noticeable. The M Sport models added unique styling elements, enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the 4Motion AWD system. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. Despite its nimble handling in normal driving conditions, the Tiguan's performance was limited by its engine's delayed torque delivery and modest power output. Fuel efficiency was a focus, with an average consumption of 9.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The M50i variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8, producing 523 horsepower, while the X5 M reached up to 617 horsepower with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a six-cylinder engine with a 24-kWh battery, achieving 389 horsepower and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering dynamics were less engaging than expected, particularly at higher speeds. Fuel efficiency varied across models, with the xDrive45e achieving a combined rating of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact crossovers for its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. The Highline R-Line trim offered comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent visibility. The second row provided ample space for adults and children, with convenient features like rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard was a notable change, though it posed usability challenges. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard over longer journeys. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The X5's split liftgate and air suspension made loading cargo easier, though the doors did not open very wide, complicating access to the second row. The xDrive45e model offered slightly less cargo space due to its battery placement.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line offering a more advanced Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The Highline R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a premium Fender audio system. Despite improvements, the voice recognition system was disappointing, and users were encouraged to use smartphone integration for better performance. The Tiguan also offered an available Park Assist system for easier parking.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity features. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, a premium audio system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar. However, the wireless Apple CarPlay had connectivity quirks, occasionally taking over audio functions unexpectedly.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard safety features like Front Assist and Side Assist. New for 2022 were Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing the SUV's driver assistance capabilities. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, though its touch controls could be challenging to use. Emergency Assist could bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with hopes for improved scores in 2022.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had limitations, with the adaptive cruise control struggling to react to stopped traffic comfortably. Lane-keeping assistance was also inconsistent, particularly in sunny or rainy conditions. The X5 received mostly Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, despite several recalls.