2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical lines. This approach, while not overly emotive, appealed to those who appreciated simplicity and minimalism. The refreshed front styling aligned the Tiguan with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The SUV 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 refined cabin with leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting options. The touch-sensing controls added a modern touch, though the hard plastic in the lower 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. Overall, the 2022 Tiguan maintained its appealing aesthetics while incorporating subtle enhancements to keep it fresh.

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its imposing spindle grille and significant ground clearance, made a bold visual statement. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards functionality, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The interior, however, was marred by an abundance of plastic, reflecting its low sales volume and the need for cost-effective manufacturing. Nevertheless, the GX offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and premium leather upholstery.

The GX's interior featured practical storage solutions, including a deep centre console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The decision to retain hard buttons over touch interfaces was a welcome choice for many, despite the abundance of controls. The second row provided comfort with captain’s chairs, while the third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The side-hinged rear door posed challenges, and cargo space was limited compared to competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the GX's off-road prowess and luxury features remained its key selling points.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion AWD, the Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. While the Tiguan's ground clearance limited its off-road capabilities, it excelled in normal driving conditions, providing a nimble and responsive experience. However, the engine's torque delivery resulted in some turbo lag, and fuel efficiency was average at 9.8 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. Despite its lower power figures compared to modern engines, the V8 offered a satisfying linear power delivery. The GX's towing capacity of 2,948 kg was respectable, though its fuel economy was less impressive at 14.5 L/100 km combined. The GX's weight affected its handling, but its predictable roll and strong brakes provided confidence. The 4WD system, with a Torsen limited-slip differential, enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it suitable for various terrains.

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 and excellent visibility. The second row provided ample space for adults and children, while the optional third row compromised cargo space. The switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard added sophistication but required adjustment. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered practical storage solutions, including a deep centre console bin and adjustable armrests. The decision to retain hard buttons over touch interfaces was appreciated, though the abundance of controls required familiarization. The second row provided comfort with captain’s chairs, while the third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The side-hinged rear door posed challenges, and cargo space was limited compared to competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the GX's off-road prowess and luxury features remained its key selling points.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line offering a more advanced Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen, provided connected services and smartphone integration. However, the voice recognition system was disappointing, and users were advised to rely on smartphone connectivity. The Highline R-Line trim included a premium audio system and Park Assist for added convenience.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, though improved, felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The 10.3-inch touchscreen offered standard integrations like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a two-speed transfer case and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. Despite its dated technology, the GX excelled in off-road performance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with standard safety features like Front Assist and Side Assist. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were available, enhancing the Tiguan's driver assistance capabilities. The 2021 model earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 updates aimed to improve its safety credentials.

The 2023 Lexus GX, despite its older design, included advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. The Lexus Safety System+ provided a comprehensive suite of safety features, though the GX lacked some top-end technologies. While crash test ratings were unavailable, the GX's safety features were commendable.