2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was enhanced by 22-inch silver-finished wheels, part of the TX 350 Executive package, which significantly improved its presence. The styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who previously found Lexus designs too bold. The TX was available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, though the TX 550h+ was not yet available.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, marking its third generation. It adopted a sleek, modern look inspired by VW's electric vehicles, particularly noticeable in its narrower headlights and illuminated VW badge and light bar on the Highline R-Line trim. The grille appeared larger, with smaller actual openings, and the rear featured a sportier tapering hatch. The interior modernization included a minimalist dashboard with a digital instrument panel and a tablet-like infotainment display. The gear selector was moved to the steering column, creating more storage space. Materials quality was average, with soft-touch materials in key areas, though some plastic remained in the rear seats for durability.

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. It accelerated to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds, with a fuel economy rating of 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension and accurate steering. The interior was quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. It was expected to reach 100 km/h in about 8.5 seconds. The drivetrain provided smooth and linear power delivery, and the braking system was easy to modulate. The suspension favoured comfort while maintaining composure in corners. The cabin was quiet, even on coarse roads. A more powerful Turbo version was anticipated for 2026, along with a hybrid powertrain.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable third-row seat for adults, unlike the RX L. The TX 350 test unit featured premium upholstery and standard heated and ventilated seats. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to a flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat provided adequate leg support and a good view. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,746 litres with all seats folded.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan returned without a third row, increasing second-row legroom by nearly 4 centimetres. The interior improvements included the removal of capacitive-touch buttons, replaced by traditional controls. The centre console offered more storage, with cupholders and a deep armrest bin. Cargo capacity behind the first-row seatbacks was 1,668 litres, though the space behind the second row was not finalized. The angled liftgate limited loading of bulkier items, but remote seatback releases and a power liftgate added convenience.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Executive packages included a head-up display, surround-view camera, and semi-autonomous parking assist. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan came standard with a digital instrument panel and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 15-inch display on the top trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, paired with a wireless phone charger. A new volume knob replaced the capacitive-touch sliders. The standard audio system had seven speakers, with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon system available on the top trim. VW's Car-Net system offered remote monitoring and control.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist provided additional braking and steering assistance. The TX also featured 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.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan's crash test results were not yet available. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Emergency Assist system slowed the vehicle to a stop if the driver was incapacitated. The Highline R-Line added a head-up display and surround-view camera system. The safety features functioned well, with no false alarms or oversensitivity issues.