2024 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a sophisticated exterior that many considered more premium than its non-European counterparts. Its design elements, such as standard LED headlights and taillights, along with an illuminated grille light line on the Highline R-Line, contributed to its upscale appearance. The model name was prominently displayed in all-caps at the rear, complemented by the classic Volkswagen badge. The Trendline trim offered only grayscale colours, while higher trims introduced more vibrant options and varied interior colourways.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, facelifted for 2024, maintained a distinct identity within the Mercedes lineup. Its design featured a rounded profile reminiscent of previous generations, with squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille. The GLE Coupe models exaggerated these proportions with a fastback-style roofline. Inside, the GLE offered unique interior colours and upscale features like chunky air vents and a 64-colour ambient lighting system, creating a luxurious atmosphere.

The 2024 Tiguan was equipped 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. In Canada, 4Motion AWD was standard. Fuel economy was rated at 10.6 L/100 km city, 8.0 highway, and 9.4 combined for non R-Line trims. The driving experience was mixed, with inconsistent power delivery and touchy controls, though visibility and handling were commendable.

The 2025 GLE offered five powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 featured a 3.0-litre inline-six with 375 hp, while the GLE 450e combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp. The AMG GLE 53 and 63 S models delivered 429 hp and 603 hp, respectively. The GLE 63 S impressed with its V8 engine, though the vehicle felt larger than its size, making maneuverability challenging.

The 2024 Tiguan offered a two-row configuration with an optional third row. The two-row model provided 1,064 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,078 litres with seats folded. The three-row version reduced cargo capacity but maintained passenger space. Front passengers enjoyed up to 1,006 mm of headroom and 1,021 mm of legroom, while the third row was notably tighter.

The 2025 GLE came in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row specs were not published. It offered competitive cargo space, with 894 litres behind the second row and 1,790 litres with seats folded. The GLE provided ample legroom for second-row passengers and a high seating position, though visibility was limited. Its towing capacity reached 3,500 kilograms, matching the Audi Q7.

The 2024 Tiguan featured haptic touch slider buttons for climate control and an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with the R-Line trims offering a 10.25-inch configurable display. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System was a highlight for audiophiles.

The 2025 GLE boasted dual 12.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment, with MBUX offering wireless connectivity and navigation. Multiple access methods, including voice recognition, enhanced usability. The AMG GLE 63 S included drive modes and off-road displays, with features like a “transparent hood” function for the 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision avoidance, emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous driving were available on higher trims.

The 2025 GLE offered extensive safety features, with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring as standard. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a 2025 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though some crash prevention ratings were less than ideal.