2019 BMW X5 vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2019 BMW X5, despite its hefty 5,000-pound frame, aimed to deliver a sedan-like driving experience. BMW's focus on on-road performance was evident, even if it meant sacrificing off-road capabilities. The X5's five-passenger layout could be expanded to seven, though the third row was cramped. Power came from two turbocharged engines: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a smooth ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i started at $60,700 and included a suite of features like adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster. Various packages allowed for further customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced safety systems.

In contrast, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, redesigned in 2018, addressed its predecessor's size and price issues. The new Tiguan featured clean, simple lines and a conservative German design. Inside, however, the interior felt plain, with hard black plastic surfaces that lacked the premium feel of earlier VW models. The Tiguan's second row could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. Front-drive models came standard with a third row, while AWD models offered it as an option. The cargo space was generous, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available in two-row models. The Tiguan's interior felt roomy, thanks to its wide beam and abundant glass, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2019 BMW X5's performance was a standout feature. The xDrive40i's turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine delivered 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, propelling the vehicle to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 offered even more power, with 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, achieving 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission provided smooth and efficient shifts, contributing to the X5's impressive fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The X5's ride quality was enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform, which combined steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for strength and reduced weight. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height and improved bump absorption, making the X5 a comfortable yet sporty ride.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided a snappy throttle response and minimal turbo lag. However, the Tiguan's larger size and weight made it less nimble than some competitors. The suspension was soft, ensuring a comfortable ride even on rough roads, but the handling was less agile. The Tiguan's cabin was well-insulated from wind noise, making it a quiet highway cruiser. While not the most exciting to drive, the Tiguan's performance was adequate for most daily driving needs.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. However, without expensive options like upgraded trim or glass and ceramic buttons, the interior could feel less premium compared to competitors. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited thigh support and no ventilation, making the $1,600 Luxury Seating package a worthwhile addition. Space was ample, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The air suspension made loading easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality. The second row could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. While the third row was not spacious, it was adequate for shorter adults and children. The cargo space was generous, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available in two-row models. The Tiguan's interior felt roomy, thanks to its wide beam and abundant glass. The seating position was comfortable, making the Tiguan feel larger than it was, appealing to those downsizing from larger SUVs.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control was unreliable, and the customizable screens were not as intuitive as competitors. The voice controls were picky, and the Driving Assistance Plus package, offering limited hands-off driving, was not very effective at high speeds. However, the Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. The Parking Assistant Plus package, with automatic parallel parking and a 3D camera, was a worthwhile addition. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system was available for audiophiles.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, which was set to be replaced by MIB3 the following year. The current system, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen in the base S trim and an 8-inch upgrade in higher trims, was among the best in the industry. The Digital Cockpit, available on top SEL trims, offered a customizable digital instrument panel. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a WiFi hotspot. The Tiguan S had a single USB-C port, while higher trims had multiple USB-A ports and a wireless charging pad.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some unfamiliar feedback during the last moments of braking. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 4-star ratings in frontal crash and rollover tests, and 5-star ratings in side crash tests. The IIHS named the X5 a Top Safety Pick+ with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan improved its standard safety package, adding forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance and LED headlights with automatic high beams were reserved for the top SEL trim. VW's Car-Net telematics package connected the vehicle to an owner's smartphone, offering remote locking, status checks, and vehicle location. The IIHS rated the Tiguan a Top Safety Pick for SEL Premium models with LED headlights, while most Tiguans with halogen headlights received a poor rating.