2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

The 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and refined exterior compared to its predecessor, the Encore. It was slightly larger in every dimension, with a longer wheelbase and a wider track, giving it a more complete and sophisticated appearance. The GX featured a larger grille, revised headlights, and a reworked rear end, which contributed to its enhanced aesthetic appeal. Inside, the cabin echoed this maturity with a focus on style and quality, offering a more upscale feel than some of its competitors, though not quite reaching the luxury of the Mazda CX-30.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan boasted clean lines and balanced proportions, offering a conservative yet timeless design that was likely to age well. Its understated styling might have been perceived as boring by some, but it exuded an upscale and classic aesthetic. The Tiguan was notably large for its class, providing a spacious interior that could accommodate up to seven passengers with its optional third-row seat. The interior design was characterized by modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout, with shiny detailing and a well-integrated touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came standard with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for front-wheel drive. Our test model featured the optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, with a nine-speed automatic transmission available for the all-wheel-drive version. While the engine provided solid power for its size, it was not particularly brisk and exhibited some roughness typical of three-cylinder engines. The driving experience was smooth overall, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension that handled bumps and corners with composure.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system was available as an option. While the powertrain was adequate, it suffered from turbocharger lag, making the engine feel breathless during passing maneuvers. The Tiguan's nearly 4,000-pound curb weight contributed to this perception of lethargy. Despite this, the Tiguan offered a pleasurable driving experience with light, responsive steering, a compliant ride, and nimble handling, although it struggled with suspension isolation over sharper bumps.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered increased space in the rear seats and cargo area compared to the standard Encore. With the rear seats up, it provided 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 50.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. This was more than the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. The rear legroom was generous, and the rear load floor could be adjusted for additional space. Up front, the shifter's repositioning allowed for more storage options, with deep in-door cubbies and well-designed cup holders.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan prioritized comfort with large doors and tall seating positions for easy access. The front seats offered a wide range of adjustments, and the back seat provided excellent support and legroom. The Tiguan's cargo space varied depending on the presence of the third-row seat, ranging from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, with a maximum capacity of 65.7 to 73.5 cubic feet. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seat allowed for versatile cargo and passenger configurations, and the cargo area featured deep wells for additional storage.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came standard with GM's latest touchscreen infotainment system, featuring a user-friendly interface, crisp graphics, and responsive performance. It included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional features included a wireless charging pad, navigation, and a head-up display projected via a small plastic display. The system allowed for customization of menu items and presets, enhancing user convenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan introduced the MIB3 infotainment system starting with the SE trim, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, faster processing, and expanded features. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, WiFi connectivity, and a range of Car-Net connected services. While the system was an improvement, it had some quirks, and the standard six-speaker sound system struggled with bass-heavy music. The SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims featured Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrumentation, providing an understated yet functional technology experience.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, pedestrian detection, and a following distance indicator. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The available surround-view camera system provided clear images and was particularly useful for parking maneuvers.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the IQ Drive collection of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control was available starting with the SE trim, and the SEL added lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist. The Tiguan's safety systems were generally effective, though some features, like adaptive cruise control, had room for improvement. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS in SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims.