2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, redesigned in 2018, presented a stylish yet conservative German aesthetic, addressing its predecessor's size and price issues. While the exterior maintained a clean and simple design, the interior revealed cost-cutting measures with plain surfaces and hard plastics. Despite this, the Tiguan offered advanced electronics, including an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system, which stood out as highlights in an otherwise unremarkable cabin.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced a new seven-passenger model with a design reminiscent of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee. Its styling, marked by a signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches, was instantly recognizable as a Jeep. Available in multiple trims, the Grand Cherokee L offered a luxurious interior with quilted leather and real wood trim, although some materials fell short of expectations for its price. The redesigned interior, however, represented a significant improvement over the previous model, loaded with technology and comfort features.

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, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offered either front-wheel drive or an optional all-wheel drive. Despite its larger size and weight compared to competitors, the Tiguan delivered a snappy throttle response with minimal turbo lag. However, its performance was moderate, requiring patience for highway passing. The Tiguan's handling was impacted by its size, with a longer wheelbase affecting nimbleness, though it provided a comfortable ride with its soft suspension.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive or a choice of three 4WD systems. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available on higher trims, increased power to 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, enhancing towing capacity. The Grand Cherokee L's V6 provided brisk acceleration, though it was loud when revved. The vehicle's Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension and Selec-Terrain off-road modes ensured capable handling and off-road prowess, with a smooth ride and secure steering feel on highways.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality, offering a sliding second row and an optional third row, making it versatile for families. The third row, while not spacious, was suitable for shorter adults or children. The Tiguan's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available in two-row models. The interior felt roomy, akin to midsize SUVs, with ample hip and shoulder room, enhanced by abundant glass and a seating position that provided a sense of spaciousness.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L prioritized comfort, especially in the Summit trim, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. The second row offered captain's chairs or an optional bench seat, with ample legroom and comfort. The third row was surprisingly comfortable for most adults, with large windows providing a great view. However, the Grand Cherokee L lacked practical storage space for front-seat occupants. Cargo space was competitive, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 84.6 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, soon to be replaced by MIB3. Despite this, the current system was highly regarded, with an 8-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. The system offered bright graphics, a responsive processor, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Digital Cockpit, available on top trims, provided a customizable digital instrument panel. Connectivity options included USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response and improved user experience. Available with 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens, the system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system delivered excellent sound quality. Additional features included a digital instrumentation panel, a thermal-imaging night vision system, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan improved its standard safety package with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. However, advanced features like adaptive cruise control were reserved for higher trims. The Tiguan was equipped with Car-Net, a telematics package offering remote access and monitoring features. The IIHS rated it a Top Safety Pick for models with LED headlights, though most Tiguans had lower-rated halogen headlights.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. While effective, the system's steering assist felt artificial. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, enhanced safety at intersections. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including park assist and collision avoidance features. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but improvements over the previous model were expected.