2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, distinguishing itself from its more ostentatious 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 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 impressed with a sophisticated cabin featuring perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new technology, although the hard plastic in the lower half of the cabin hinted at its mass-market status.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained the design introduced in 2019, with the Trail trim standing out due to its aggressive grille and blacked-out wheels. The Trail trim also featured orange interior accents, adding a touch of flair to the otherwise basic centre console. The RAV4 offered a range of trims, from the entry-level LE to the more luxurious Limited, with prices starting just over $35,000. The interior provided practical storage solutions, such as a shelf running the length of the glove compartment and generous door pockets. While the RAV4's interior might not have been as upscale as some competitors, it offered a rugged, truck-like feel that appealed to those seeking a more adventurous vehicle.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 1,900 rpm. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD system, which could send up to half of the power to the rear wheels. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. Despite its powertrain, the Tiguan experienced some turbo lag, and its fuel efficiency was rated at 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving. The Tiguan's ride and handling were satisfactory for everyday driving, but it lacked the excitement some drivers might seek.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD was standard across all trims, and the RAV4 included a Snow drive mode. While the RAV4's performance was not particularly thrilling, it was adequate for most driving situations. The engine was noisier than some competitors, but it offered a reliable and consistent driving experience. The RAV4 Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, provided a rugged appearance, although it was more of a visual statement than a true off-road performer.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact crossovers with its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered an optional third row, although this compromised cargo space. The Highline R-Line trim provided comfortable leather seats with eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children alike. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4, designed to seat five, offered 958 mm of headroom in the front and 1,001 mm in the back with the moonroof. Legroom measured 1,039 mm in the front and 960 mm in the second row. While the RAV4 provided practical storage solutions, its cargo space was slightly less than the Tiguan's, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. The RAV4's interior was functional, with convenient storage options and a rugged feel, but it lacked the spaciousness of the Tiguan.

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 offered a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. However, the natural voice recognition feature was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line.

For 2023, the Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, while the Limited trim featured a 10.5-inch screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity were standard, along with voice command and connected services. The Limited trim also offered an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version available on the Limited trim. The Trail trim did not include the upgraded multimedia system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard safety equipment, including Front Assist and Side Assist. Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, was available, although its touch-sensing controls were challenging to use. Emergency Assist was another significant upgrade, bringing 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 aimed to enhance this score.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with standard safety features such as lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, thanks to its strong performance in crash tests and updated safety features.