2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic burly, body-on-frame design, appealing to off-road enthusiasts with its rugged appearance. Despite the variety of powertrains and off-road systems available, the Wrangler's look remained consistent across models. Notable updates included a redesigned grille, first seen on the 2023 20th Anniversary edition of the Wrangler Rubicon, which was shorter and wider to improve airflow. The integration of the antenna into the windshield was a practical upgrade, preventing it from snagging on branches during off-road adventures. Additionally, the Wrangler offered a range of roof options, from traditional soft-tops to power-retractable sunroofs, and allowed for customization with removable doors and windshields.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, marking the start of its third generation. It adopted a sleek, modern aesthetic inspired by VW's electric vehicles, most notably with its narrower headlights and illuminated VW badge and light bar on the top SEL R-Line trim. The grille appeared larger, with smaller actual openings, and the rear featured a sportier tapering hatch. The Tiguan's interior also received a modernization, with a minimalist dashboard and a digital instrument panel standard across all trims. The gear selector was moved to the steering column, creating additional storage space. While materials quality was average for its class, the Tiguan's interior improvements aimed to enhance the overall driving experience.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, a 3.6-liter V6 with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a powerful 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were supported by various transfer cases, with the Rubicon trim featuring the Rock-Trac transfer case for enhanced performance. Most models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed manual was available with the 3.6-liter engine. The 4xe PHEV Wrangler stood out for its 21 miles of all-electric range and impressive power rating, making it a favorite among testers.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with front-wheel drive as the default and Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive available on all models. The Tiguan's acceleration was expected to be similar to its predecessor, reaching 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. The suspension favored comfort, providing a smooth ride over bumps while maintaining composure on winding roads. The Tiguan's cabin was notably quiet, with minimal tire and wind noise at highway speeds. A more powerful Turbo version was anticipated for 2026, offering increased output for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, with four-door Rubicon-trim models capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, thanks to a full-float solid rear axle. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power adjustable front seats that remained functional even when submerged. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories powered by the 17.3-kWh battery.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan returned without a third row of seats, resulting in increased second-row legroom by 1.5 inches. The interior saw the removal of capacitive-touch buttons, replaced by traditional controls for improved usability. The center console offered more storage space, with cupholders, a smartphone slot, and a deep armrest bin. Cargo capacity details were not finalized, but the new design suggested a smaller area compared to the previous model. The Tiguan featured remote seatback releases and a power liftgate, enhancing convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch center infotainment screen running Uconnect5, with optional navigation. The system was faster and more user-friendly, with features like Off-Road Pages providing detailed data for off-road enthusiasts. The Trails Offroad feature offered access to over 200 trails, with the option to subscribe for more. Additional features included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store up to five user profiles.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a standard digital instrument panel and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 15-inch display available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complemented by a wireless phone charger with a cooling fan. The infotainment system included capacitive-touch sliders, but a new volume knob improved usability. The Atmospheres feature combined ambient lighting and audio settings to enhance the driving experience, though it seemed more of a novelty. The Tiguan also offered a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system on the top trim.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, with forward collision warning standard on most models. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and park assist. The Wrangler had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS for 2024, but previous ratings indicated room for improvement in crash protection.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan's crash test results were not yet available, but it came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. These included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and more. Higher trims added features like a head-up display, surround-view camera system, and semi-automated parking. The safety systems functioned effectively, with no false alarms or over sensitivity issues reported.