2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, standing out among its competitors with a creased and symmetrical aesthetic that leaned towards minimalism. 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 four trim levels in Canada, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and prices ranged from $33,395 to $43,395. The Highline R-Line trim, in particular, boasted a sportier look with 20-inch wheels and a choice of five paint colours, including the striking Atlantic Blue Metallic. Inside, the Tiguan Highline R-Line featured a luxurious cabin with leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new technology, although the hard plastic in the lower half of the cabin hinted at its mass-market status.

The 2022 Lexus RX continued to impress with its modern and sporty design, featuring sharp character lines and angular features that created an eye-catching appearance. The RX was available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, with the RX 350 offering seating for five and the RX 450h hybrid model providing a three-row option. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented touch with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sporty interior elements. Inside, the RX maintained its luxury appeal with high-quality materials and a mix of NuLuxe or semi-aniline leather seats. However, the centre stack felt a bit dated, and the NuLuxe seats in the F Sport model were less comfortable than expected. Despite these drawbacks, the RX offered a serene cabin experience with excellent noise isolation and a smooth ride.

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 and 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. However, with only 19 centimetres of ground clearance, the Tiguan was best suited for well-traveled paths. The suspension and steering provided a nimble and responsive feel in normal driving situations, but the engine's torque arrived later than some competitors, resulting in momentary turbo lag. Fuel efficiency was decent, with an average of 9.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid model combined a V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of excitement in acceleration and engine sound. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and a Sport+ drive mode, but the differences between driving modes were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 10.8 L/100 km combined, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved a more efficient 7.9 L/100 km combined.

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 outward visibility. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children alike, 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 RX provided 2,826 litres of passenger volume in the standard two-row model, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models offered limited space for passengers and cargo, with only 210 litres available behind the third row. The RX's cargo area had a high load-in height, but thoughtful interior features like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder added convenience. Despite the lack of flat-folding rear seats, the RX offered a practical and luxurious interior.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line featuring 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 Fender premium audio system and navigation. However, the natural voice recognition system was disappointing, and the touch controls proved challenging to use.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available on higher trims. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the touchscreen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, and the touchpad was hypersensitive and unintuitive. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, smartphone integration, wireless charging, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity and personalization options.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard safety features like Front Assist and Side Assist, with available upgrades like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's LED headlights and driver aids aimed to improve that score.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights but missed the "plus" designation. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.