2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a refined and conservative design, distinguishing itself from its often less aesthetically pleasing competitors. Its updated front styling aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's exterior was complemented by redesigned aluminum wheels and new nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate. In Canada, the Tiguan was available in four trim levels, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and prices ranged from $33,395 to $43,395. The R-Line models offered a sportier look, with the Comfortline R-Line Black Edition featuring a trendy blacked-out appearance. Inside, the Tiguan Highline R-Line boasted a luxurious cabin with leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting, though the hard plastic in the lower half of the cabin hinted at its mass-market status. Standard features included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with additional options like a panoramic sunroof available.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between a classic two-door or a more practical four-door body style, with various engine options including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline-powered V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels, with numerous special editions available. Our test vehicle, the High Tide model, was based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim and included options like LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield upgrade. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some challenges due to the spare tire and roof design. Rear-seat passengers faced entry and exit difficulties, but once inside, they found agreeable accommodations. Cargo space was accessible via a swing tailgate, offering 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 1,900 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission transferred power to the 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. Drivers could choose between Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings available. The Tiguan's Hill Descent Control system operated at speeds up to 30 km/h, but its 19 cm ground clearance limited off-road capabilities. The Tiguan's suspension and steering provided a nimble and responsive driving experience, though turbo lag was noticeable when accelerating from a stop. Fuel efficiency was a focus, with an average of 9.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system were included. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was higher, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of testing. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a rough-and-tumble feel, loud cabin noise, and touchy brakes. Despite these traits, the Wrangler offered an immersive and adventurous driving experience, appealing to those seeking off-road capabilities and a sense of freedom.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact crossovers with its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. The Highline R-Line trim offered comfortable leather seats with power adjustments, excellent visibility, and a panoramic sunroof. The second row provided ample headroom and legroom, accommodating adults and children alike. Cargo space was generous, with 1,064 litres behind the back seat and a maximum capacity of 2,078 litres in the two-row configuration. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was rugged, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Entry and exit were challenging, especially with a raised suspension. Visibility varied, with some obstructions from the spare tire and roof design. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but found comfortable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was accessible via a swing tailgate, offering 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with small trays and compartments available.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line offering a 10.25-inch 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 nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. However, the natural voice recognition system was disappointing. The Tiguan also offered an available Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a premium audio system, but our test vehicle did not include these features. Despite this, the Wrangler included options like remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard safety features like Front Assist and Side Assist. Available upgrades included Travel Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, and Emergency Assist, which could safely bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements aimed to enhance safety further.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional rather than standard, and the Wrangler required careful driving.