2020 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, redesigned in 2018, presented a stylish yet conservative German aesthetic. Its exterior featured clean lines and a horizontal grille that seamlessly connected the headlights, embodying a classic Volkswagen look. However, the interior was less impressive, with plain design elements and hard black plastic surfaces that lacked the sophistication of earlier Volkswagen models. The focus seemed to have shifted towards electronics, with an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system standing out as highlights.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE's exterior design was considered adequate, lacking the striking appeal of its competitors. Despite an aggressive front nose, the design seemed to lose its edge past the A-pillar. However, the interior was a different story, showcasing a masterpiece of quality, layout, and textures. The GLE's interior was luxurious, with features like twin arching grab handles, LED lighting, and a mix of wood, metal, leather, and suede. The overall feel was one of opulence, although some elements like the gear selector felt flimsy.

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 was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Despite its size and weight, the Tiguan offered a snappy throttle response and minimal turbo lag, though it was not the fastest in its class. The Tiguan's handling was impacted by its larger size, with a longer wheelbase that made it less nimble. However, it provided a comfortable driving experience with a soft suspension and well-insulated cabin.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its complex suspension and engine setup. The GLE 350 featured a 255 hp engine, while the GLE 450 offered a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with 362 hp. The AMG GLE 53 took it further with 429 hp, and the GLE 580 boasted a twin-turbo V8 with 483 hp. The top-tier AMG GLE 63 S delivered a staggering 603 hp. The GLE's air suspension configurations, including E-Active Body Control, provided exceptional ride quality and handling. The hybrid setup, with a 48-volt battery, enhanced performance but did not significantly improve fuel efficiency.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offered practicality with its spacious interior. The second row of seats could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. While the third row was not overly spacious, it provided enough legroom for shorter adults and children. The Tiguan's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available in two-row models. The driver's seat felt roomy, with ample hip and shoulder room, and the abundant glass provided a sense of spaciousness.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, primarily a two-row SUV, offered an optional third row for seating up to seven. The second-row seats featured power controls for recline and fore-aft adjustments. Cargo capacity was 34 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe variant had less cargo space due to its sloping roofline. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the new MBUX infotainment system, which simplified controls and improved the overall user experience.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, which was set to be replaced by MIB3 in the following year. Despite this, the current system was highly regarded, with an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen available in higher trims. The Tiguan offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a WiFi hotspot. The Digital Cockpit, available on top trims, provided a customizable digital instrument panel.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, capable of reading hand gestures. The system was user-friendly, with search bars and larger type for easy navigation. The GLE offered a plethora of features, including a Track Pace app, Seat Kinetics, and a natural voice assistant. The head-up display and ambient lighting added to the high-tech experience, making the GLE's technology offerings extensive and well-executed.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan improved its standard safety package with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were reserved for higher trims. The Tiguan was rated a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for models with LED headlights, though most models had halogen headlights rated poorly.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and standard forward emergency braking. It offered a range of optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and 360-degree cameras. The GLE's Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side features added to its comprehensive safety package.