2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical exterior. 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 interior of the Highline R-Line trim was upscale, with leather upholstery, touch-sensing controls, and ambient lighting, although the lower half of the cabin revealed its mass-market status with hard plastics. The Tiguan maintained its appealing looks while adding new features to keep it fresh.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a mature crossover SUV, continued to be a sales leader in Canada. Its exterior design was in line with current crossover trends, with angular wheel arches and expressive headlights. The RAV4's interior featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and a touchscreen interface positioned for minimal distraction. The cabin design included unique geometric patterns that tied various elements together. The RAV4's design was both playful and aggressive, with a high-quality fit and finish that elevated its overall appearance.

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 and 4Motion AWD were standard, with driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual. The Tiguan's off-road capabilities were limited by its 19 centimetres of ground clearance. The suspension system provided a nimble and responsive ride, although pushing the vehicle revealed limitations in tires and suspension. Fuel efficiency was rated at 9.8 L/100 km combined, with a test drive averaging 9.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, including a gasoline-only 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime added electric motors for increased power and efficiency. The RAV4 Prime, with 302 horsepower, could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering. Fuel economy varied by model, with the gasoline version achieving 7.9 L/100 km combined, while the Hybrid and Prime models offered even better efficiency.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a spacious compact crossover, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered an optional third row, although cargo space was compromised with it in use. The two-row configuration provided 1,064 litres of luggage volume, expanding to 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. The interior was comfortable, with leather seats, power adjustments, and excellent visibility. However, the new touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard were challenging to use.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while still classified as a small SUV, offered impressive cargo capacity with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with it folded. The RAV4's towing capacity varied by model, with the Trail and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 1,588 kilograms. The interior was roomy, with comfortable seating for four and ample storage options. The front seats provided plenty of space, and the XLE grade added features like dual-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel.

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 on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM. The Highline R-Line added a nine-speaker Fender audio system and navigation. However, the natural voice recognition system was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and SiriusXM. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and additional features like Safety Connect and Service Connect. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a head-up display. Navigation was less emphasized due to smartphone integration.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard safety features like Front Assist and Side Assist. Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance, was available, although its touch controls were 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, and the 2022 model's improvements could enhance its score.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota's Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. In Canada, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with the RAV4 Prime achieving a "Top Safety Pick+" rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.