2024 Chevrolet Trax vs 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax underwent a significant transformation, shedding its previous image for a more stylish and modern design. It was longer, lower, and wider than its predecessor, borrowing elements from the midsize Chevy Blazer. This included a prominent grille and distinctive body lines, giving it a bold presence. The Trax offered various trims with different styling cues, such as the rugged Activ and sporty RS, enhancing its appeal. Inside, the Trax featured a practical yet stylish interior with a freestanding touchscreen and unique design elements, making it stand out in its class.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan exuded a premium feel, often perceived as more upscale than its non-European competitors. It featured standard LED headlights and taillights, with an illuminated grille on the top-tier Highline R-Line trim. The Tiguan's exterior design was complemented by silver or black roof rails, depending on the trim. Inside, the Tiguan offered a range of interior colour options and materials, with higher trims providing leather upholstery and additional comfort features. The overall design was sleek and sophisticated, aligning with Volkswagen's reputation for quality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Despite a decrease in power compared to the previous model, it offered improved acceleration, reaching 100 km/h faster than before. The engine's flat torque curve provided strong response, and turbo lag was minimal. The Trax featured a six-speed automatic transmission and was available only in front-wheel drive, enhancing its car-like handling. It offered a planted feel with predictable and nimble handling, although it wasn't designed for high-performance driving.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan came with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it featured Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive as standard in Canada. The Tiguan's power delivery was sometimes inconsistent, with noticeable turbo and transmission lag. However, it offered good visibility and handling, making it feel maneuverable for its size. The ride was comfortable, although some passengers found the seating surfaces less than ideal.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax offered increased rear-seat legroom, although headroom decreased slightly. It provided a car-like driving position with excellent visibility. Cargo space increased by about 12%, offering 725 litres with the rear seats up and 1,532 litres with them folded. This made it competitive with rivals like the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Venue.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan, available with an optional third row, offered flexible interior configurations. The two-row version provided 1,064 litres of cargo space with seats up, expanding to 2,078 litres with seats down. The three-row option reduced cargo space but maintained decent passenger room. The Tiguan's interior dimensions were competitive, with ample headroom and legroom for front and second-row passengers.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax featured significant infotainment upgrades, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and an 11-inch screen on higher trims. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with wireless phone charging. The digital instrument cluster was modern and easy to read, although some controls were positioned more conveniently for the driver than the passenger.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan included haptic touch slider buttons for climate control, which were responsive and easy to use. The infotainment system featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered wireless charging and a fully configurable 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System was a highlight for audiophiles.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax offered a range of driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, promoting safe driving habits for young drivers.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. It featured standard forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims included adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Park Distance Control was standard on certain trims, although some features were found to be intrusive.