2021 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen completely overhauled the Tiguan for the 2018 model year, introducing an all-new second generation of its compact crossover SUV. The 2020 Tiguan maintained its stylish and conservatively German design, featuring clean and simple lines with a horizontal grille connecting the headlights. However, the interior was less impressive, with dull surfaces and hard black plastic that made it feel plain and somewhat boring. The focus seemed to be on electronics, with an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system standing out as highlights.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, looked similar to many other compact crossovers in the market. While it had a few distinguishing features like the grille opening and some chromed plastic elements, it wasn't a vehicle bought for its exterior looks. The CR-V was available in eight colors, though most were shades of gray, black, or white, with only a few vibrant options. Inside, the CR-V offered a more modern look with angular seats and upscale materials in higher trims, but it still faced stiff competition from more distinctively styled rivals like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine drove either the front or all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its snappy throttle response and minimal turbo lag, the Tiguan's performance was only moderate due to its larger size and heavier weight, which ranged from 3,757 to 3,847 pounds. The Tiguan offered a comfortable driving experience with a soft suspension and well-insulated cabin, but it lacked the nimbleness of smaller competitors.

The 2021 Honda CR-V featured a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all nine trims, excluding the hybrid versions. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds, which was competitive within its class. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth and steady acceleration, though it lacked the engagement of conventional transmissions found in rivals like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. The CR-V came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Its suspension setup and handling were typical for the segment, offering a decent ride quality without any surprises.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality, particularly with its second row of seats that could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. Front-drive Tiguans came standard with a third row, while AWD models offered it as an option. The third row, though not spacious, was adequate for shorter adults and children. The Tiguan's cargo capacity was impressive, with 65.7 cubic feet available when the third row was folded and 73.5 cubic feet in two-row models. The front seats provided ample hip and shoulder room, and the vehicle felt roomy due to its abundant glass and seating position.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was designed to fit five people comfortably and carry their gear. It offered 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Accessing the cargo area varied by trim, with higher trims offering power and hands-free tailgate options. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's interior was functional, with various storage options and a comfortable seating arrangement, making it a practical choice for families.

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

The 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX trim had a 5-inch color screen with Bluetooth connectivity, while other trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were plentiful, with USB ports in the front and second rows, and a wireless phone charger in the Touring trim. The Touring trim also included a satellite navigation system with voice recognition.

For the 2020 model year, Volkswagen improved the Tiguan’s standard safety package, adding forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were reserved for the top SEL trim. VW's Car-Net telematics package was standard, offering remote locking, status checks, and vehicle location. The Tiguan received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for SEL Premium models with LED headlights, but most models had halogen headlights rated poorly by the IIHS.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. However, it didn't achieve the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating due to lower scores in headlight evaluation and the updated side crash test. The CR-V's LATCH child safety seat anchoring system received an "Acceptable" rating. Honda's Sensing system, which included a suite of advanced safety features, was standard across all trims. These features included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam headlamps.