2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, no-nonsense design with its fourth-generation JL model, characterized by its boxy shape and minimal curves. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. The iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders were standard across all models, while the tailgate swung out for easy cargo access. The interior was practical, featuring easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward design, though lacking in luxury features like ambient lighting or massaging seats.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan maintained a more conservative yet gracefully aging design, following its 2022 updates. Offered in various trims, including the sportier R-Line versions, the Tiguan's exterior was available in multiple colours and wheel designs, though choices were limited by trim level. The interior boasted quality materials, including leather upholstery and artificial wood trim, with a panoramic sunroof enhancing the upscale feel. Despite some ergonomic challenges with touch-sensing controls, the Tiguan's cabin was spacious and well-equipped, providing a comfortable and refined driving environment.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was renowned for its off-road prowess, featuring solid axles and optional differential lockers. It offered a range of engine options, including a standard 285-horsepower Pentastar V6, a 270-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 260-horsepower Ecodiesel V6. The high-performance Rubicon 392 variant boasted a 470-horsepower V8, capable of accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds. While the Wrangler excelled off-road, the 392's on-road performance was hindered by inadequate brakes and vague steering. Other Wrangler models had better-suited brakes and steering for everyday driving.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the Tiguan featured standard 4Motion all-wheel drive, offering various driving modes for different conditions. While the Tiguan's powertrain was not the most powerful in its class, it provided a stable and predictable driving experience, with excellent tire grip and a compliant ride. However, the Tiguan's automatic transmission occasionally stumbled, and the brake pedal required more effort than expected.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available in higher trims or through a cold-weather package. The rear seat was tight, especially in the four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. The Wrangler's cargo space measured 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded, slightly less than some competitors. The Wrangler's various top options, including a removable hard top and a power soft top, provided flexibility for open-air driving. The cabin featured multiple charging points, including USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in passenger and cargo space, with large rear door openings and a spacious back seat. The front seats were comfortable and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The Tiguan's cargo area was generous, offering 1,064 litres behind the second row and 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. The hands-free power liftgate and adjustable load floor added convenience. However, the Tiguan's dashboard controls, particularly the touch-sensing climate and steering wheel controls, were ergonomically challenging and distracting.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, while higher trims offered an 8.4-inch display. The system included off-road pages, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. While the Wrangler's tech was straightforward, it lacked advanced features like a digital key or over-the-air updates for vehicle performance.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan offered digital instrumentation, with R-Line trims featuring a larger 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a nine-speaker Fender sound system, and Car-Net connected services. However, the system's user interface was complex, with multi-step processes for simple tasks. The voice-recognition system underperformed, likely due to inactive subscriptions in the test vehicle.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control as standard. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were available only on higher trims or as part of an option package. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings, with some trims' headlights rated poorly by the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, and an Automatic Post Collision Braking System. The optional IQ.Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving assist. The Tiguan's safety technology was effective and unobtrusive, though its crash-test ratings were incomplete at the time of review. The IIHS had previously awarded the Tiguan a Top Safety Pick+ rating for 2022.