2024 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was evident, especially with the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX was available in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, though the TX 550h+ was not yet available for sale.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a more premium exterior, often perceived as more designed than its non-European counterparts. The Highline R-Line trim, which was tested, featured LED headlights and taillights, an illuminated grille light line, and silver roof rails, adding to its stylish appearance. The rear end showcased the model name in all-caps style, complemented by the classic Volkswagen badge. The Tiguan offered a range of interior colour options and trim levels, with the Highline R-Line providing real leather upholstery, front-seat ventilation, and a heated steering wheel, among other features.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Despite initial concerns about its suitability for a midsize, three-row luxury SUV, the engine performed adequately for typical driving situations, accelerating to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, though testing showed an average of 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan came standard 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. The Tiguan's fuel economy ratings were 10.6 L/100 km city, 8.0 highway, and 9.4 combined for non R-Line configurations, and slightly higher for R-Line trims. The driving experience was mixed, with inconsistent power delivery and a touchy gas pedal. The steering was light but provided good visibility and handling, making the vehicle feel maneuverable. Road noise was minimal, and the ride was comfortable, though the seating surfaces drew some complaints.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a more spacious and comfortable interior. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing leg support and a good view. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded and 2,746 litres with the second-row seats down.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a two-row configuration with 1,064 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. The optional third row reduced cargo space but had minimal impact on passenger space in the first two rows. The third-row dimensions were tighter, with 858 mm of headroom and 708 mm of legroom. Despite this, the Tiguan was one of the few compact crossovers to offer a third row, providing more legroom than the Mitsubishi Outlander.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional options like a head-up display and a surround-view camera in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan's infotainment system included an 8-inch centre touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with the R-Line trims featuring a fully configurable 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro screen. The Tiguan's haptic touch slider buttons for climate control were responsive, though the physical volume knob was less user-friendly. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System was a highlight, offering excellent sound quality.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system offered hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision avoidance, emergency calling, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and Emergency Assist were available from the Comfortline trim, providing semi-autonomous highway driving and parking assistance. Park Distance Control was standard at the Comfortline R-Line Black trim level.