2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, distinguishing itself from its often less aesthetically pleasing competitors. Its refreshed exterior featured new front styling that aligned with Volkswagen’s larger models, a restyled grille with the new VW logo, and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan offered four trim levels in Canada, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and prices ranged from $33,395 to $43,395. The R-Line models boasted a sportier look, with the Highline R-Line trim showcasing a rich interior with leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting. However, the use of hard plastic in the lower cabin areas hinted at its mass-market status.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for the year, came in four model series with a range of trim levels. The NX was unmistakably a Lexus with its spindle grille and refined styling details. It offered more passenger and cargo space than its predecessor, with NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery and available real leather in higher trims. The NX 350 F Sport stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a new steering wheel. The interior design leaned towards minimalism, with most functions integrated into a large touchscreen, which could be challenging to use at times. Despite some drawbacks, the NX provided a comfortable and upscale experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission powered the 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. However, with only 19 centimetres of ground clearance, it was best suited for well-traveled paths. The Tiguan's ride and handling were satisfactory for everyday driving, but it lacked the power and performance expected from a turbocharged engine, with fuel efficiency rated at 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ PHEV delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport provided a more engaging driving experience, while the regular NX 350 offered a softer ride. Fuel consumption for the NX 350 was estimated at 9.5 L/100 km in combined driving, with the F Sport consuming slightly more.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a spacious compact crossover, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered an optional third row, though it compromised cargo space. The Highline R-Line trim provided comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent visibility. The second row was roomy, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use.

The 2022 Lexus NX claimed increased interior space, though it felt more intimate from the driver’s seat. It offered comfortable seating with standard heating features in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better bolstering for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space, with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX featured a panoramic sunroof and a Thematic Ambient Illumination system. Cargo space increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM. The Highline R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. However, the natural voice recognition system was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant technological advancements with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It offered large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and over-the-air updates. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural commands, and the NX offered various connected services and digital key capability.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with 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 bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver was unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model featured improved LED headlights and driver aids.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with features like lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The NX also had an Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available in packages, including a panoramic view monitoring system and front cross-traffic alert.