2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a refined and conservative design that stood out among its competitors. Its updated front styling aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and available illuminated grille bar. Standard LED headlights, new nameplate lettering, and redesigned aluminum wheels added to its appeal. The Tiguan lineup was simplified into four trims, offering both FWD and AWD options, with prices ranging from $25,995 to $36,995. The SEL R-Line model, tested in Atlantic Blue Metallic, boasted a sportier look with 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line offered a luxurious cabin with leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting, though the hard plastic lower half hinted at its mass-market status. Standard features included keyless entry, push-button start, and heated front seats, with additional options like remote engine start and a panoramic sunroof available.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler maintained its rugged, no-nonsense design with a boxy exterior and iconic features like the seven-slot grille and round headlights. The Wrangler offered both two-door and four-door models, with the option to remove doors and fold down the windshield for an open-air experience. The rear tailgate swung out, and the rear glass lifted for easy cargo access. The limited-edition Reign purple paint added flair to the otherwise functional design. Inside, the Wrangler prioritized practicality with easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls. While ambient lighting and massaging seats were absent, the body-colored dash and chunky controls added character. The Wrangler's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, but the various top options, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top, provided versatility for open-air adventures.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission delivered power to the front wheels, with an optional 4Motion AWD system available. The AWD system could decouple the rear axle to save fuel when not needed. Drivers could choose from Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings for AWD models. The Tiguan's Hill Descent Control system operated at speeds up to 19 mph, but its 7.6 inches of ground clearance limited its off-road capabilities. The suspension and steering provided a nimble and responsive driving experience, though the engine's torque arrived later than some competitors, resulting in slight turbo lag. The Tiguan's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined, with a real-world average of 24.7 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a standard V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower, while the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid combined electric motors with a 2.0-liter engine for 21 miles of electric range. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was unmatched, with solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer cases. The Rubicon 392's Off-Road Plus button adjusted throttle, shift points, and traction control, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. However, the 392's brakes and steering were less refined, with vague steering and inadequate braking power. Other Wrangler models had better-suited brakes and steering for their powertrains. The Wrangler's solid front axle provided excellent off-road capability, though the Ford Bronco's independent suspension offered a more comfortable on-road experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact crossovers with its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. The FWD models featured a standard third-row seat, while AWD models did not. The SEL R-Line offered leather-wrapped, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, providing excellent comfort and visibility. The second row was roomy enough for adults and children, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard added sophistication but proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with them folded, rivaling midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, though heated seats required the 392 model or a cold-weather package. The rear seat was tight, especially in four-door models, and the small rear doors made access difficult. Storage for small items was limited, with a flat dash and small glove box and center console. The Wrangler's cargo space measured 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, slightly less than the Ford Bronco. The Wrangler offered various top options, including a removable hard top, Sunrider soft top, and Sky One-Touch power soft top. The Wrangler excelled in providing charging points, with USB-A and USB-C ports and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on all but the base model, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The SEL R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. Natural voice recognition required a subscription, and testing revealed its limitations. Car-Net offered remote access, crash notification, and a WiFi hotspot, with additional features available through subscription plans. The Tiguan's Park Assist system could autonomously steer the SUV into parking spaces.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch screen available. The system lacked hard buttons, relying on touchscreen controls. Uconnect offered off-road pages with detailed information, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Wrangler's tech was practical, with a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories. However, it lacked features like a digital key and over-the-air updates for vehicle performance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with significant improvements to its IQ Drive systems. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, though the touch-sensing controls proved challenging. Emergency Assist operated when Travel Assist was active, slowing the SUV if the driver became unresponsive. 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 2023 Jeep Wrangler's standard safety features included a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on the 392 model or available as options. The Wrangler lacked lane-keeping assist. The IIHS ratings were mixed, with some trims receiving Poor headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded the Wrangler four stars for frontal crash tests and three stars for rollover ratings, with no side crash rating available.