2019 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2019 INFINITI QX80, despite its age, maintained a commanding presence as Infiniti's flagship model. Its design, updated in 2018, featured a more elegant front end compared to its Nissan Armada counterpart. The QX80 boasted slim, slanted LED headlights and a curved rectangular grille with a classic crosshatch pattern. The hood and front bumper had sensuous curves, contrasting with the boxy profile that began behind the windshield. The rear design, with its rear-quarter glass and LED taillights connected by a chrome strip, helped break up the vehicle's bulk. However, the QX80's large persona was evident with its standard 20-inch wheels and towering roof. The Limited trim introduced in 2019 added two-tone 22-inch rims, unique paint, and a luxurious black-and-white interior with leather and microsuede surfaces. Despite its high-quality interior, the QX80's doors were thin-sounding and poorly insulated, allowing cold air to seep in during freezing conditions.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete overhaul in 2018, resulting in a larger and more competitively priced compact crossover SUV. Its design was quintessentially Volkswagen, with clean lines and a horizontal grille connecting the headlights. The Tiguan's styling was conservative, lacking adventurous elements, but it had a certain appeal. Inside, the Tiguan's interior was plain, with dull surfaces and hard black plastic, a departure from Volkswagen's previous interior excellence. The focus shifted to electronics, with an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system. While the interior lacked excitement, the Tiguan's practicality and size made it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 excelled in towing capacity, boasting an impressive 8,500-pound tow rating, surpassing competitors like the Mercedes GLS and BMW X7. Its 5.6-liter V8 engine delivered 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for its size. The 7-speed automatic transmission offered quick shifts, and the QX80's steering was light yet stable. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with optional four-wheel drive available. The QX80 featured a fully independent suspension with Hydraulic Body Motion Control, enhancing its on-road performance. However, its fuel economy was poor, averaging 15 mpg.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It offered front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options. The Tiguan's powertrain provided a snappy throttle response, but its larger size impacted agility. The suspension was soft, ensuring a comfortable ride, but the Tiguan lacked the nimbleness of some competitors. While not the most exciting to drive, the Tiguan's size advantage made it a practical choice.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 offered seven-passenger seating with standard second-row captain's chairs and power-reclining third-row seats. With all seats flat, it provided 95.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior was spacious, with wide armrests and ample storage. However, it lacked features like a cooled drink bin and four-zone climate control. The Limited trim included heated front and second-row seats, along with a heated steering wheel.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan prioritized practicality with a sliding second row and an available third row. The third row, while not spacious, was suitable for shorter adults and children. Front-drive models included the third row, while all-wheel-drive models offered it as an option. The Tiguan's cargo capacity reached 73.5 cubic feet with the third row collapsed. The driver's seat felt roomy, with abundant glass and a seating position that enhanced the sense of space.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80's technology was a letdown, with an outdated instrument panel display and a poorly rendered navigation system. It lacked modern features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a head-up display. The rear-view mirror's live camera-feed overlay was a standout feature, but overall, the QX80's tech offerings were subpar for its price.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. The system was responsive and user-friendly, with bright graphics. The Tiguan included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered a digital cockpit and a WiFi hotspot. The Tiguan's tech package was comprehensive and competitive.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 came with standard forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Optional safety features included lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. However, it received low frontal crash test ratings from the NHTSA, with an overall 4-star rating.

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 and lane-keeping assistance were available on higher trims. The Tiguan was equipped with Car-Net, offering remote access and monitoring features. The IIHS rated it a Top Safety Pick for models with LED headlights.