2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2020 Acura MDX was a sleek and stylish three-row SUV, though its design was more about fitting in than standing out. It featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to its front fascia. The interior was modern and simple, with high-quality materials and a well-organized center stack that included twin infotainment screens. The MDX's overall build quality and attention to detail made it feel solid and well-constructed.

In contrast, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan had a contemporary and conservatively German design. Its clean lines and horizontal grille gave it a straightforward, car-like appearance. Inside, the Tiguan's interior was more plain, with hard black plastic surfaces that lacked the premium feel of earlier VW models. However, it did feature an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system, which were highlights in an otherwise simple cabin.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid model with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced its nimbleness in corners, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a capable and enjoyable SUV to drive.

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 was available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Tiguan's powertrain offered snappy throttle response and minimal turbo lag, but its larger size and weight made it less nimble than some competitors. The Tiguan's suspension was soft, ensuring a comfortable ride, but its handling was not as sharp as the MDX's.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided ample interior space, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It offered 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. The MDX featured numerous storage compartments, including a large glove box, a flexible center console, and door panel pockets. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality, with a second row that could slide up to seven inches to make the third row more usable. Front-drive models came standard with a third row, while AWD models offered it as an option. The Tiguan's cargo space was generous, with 65.7 cubic feet available when the third row was folded, and 73.5 cubic feet in two-row models. The Tiguan's front seats provided plenty of room, and its abundant glass made the cabin feel spacious.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a range of tech features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, rain-sensing wipers, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included additional tech like a surround-view camera and heated rear seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen in the base S trim and an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen in higher trims. The system was responsive and user-friendly, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a wireless charging pad and VW's Digital Cockpit, a customizable digital instrument panel. The Tiguan also included a WiFi hotspot and Bluetooth connectivity.

The 2020 Acura MDX came standard with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Advance Package included a Head-Up Warning. The MDX received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan improved its standard safety package with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were reserved for the top SEL trim. VW's Car-Net telematics package offered remote locking, vehicle location, and other features. The Tiguan received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for models with LED headlights.