2020 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

Volkswagen completely overhauled the Tiguan for the 2018 model year, introducing an all-new second generation of its compact crossover SUV. The 2020 model retained the stylish and conservatively German design, with clean and simple lines and a horizontal grille connecting the headlights. However, the interior was less impressive, featuring dull surfaces and hard black plastic, a far cry from Volkswagen's previous reputation for superior interiors. The optional digital dashboard and glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system were highlights, offering a modern, smartphone-like appeal.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander stood out with its bold design. The front end featured wide headlights, a long hood, and an assertive trapezoidal grille. The side profile had a character line reminiscent of the Supra sports car, and the taillights borrowed elements from Lexus models. The Highlander looked longer and lower than its predecessor without sacrificing size. The new XSE trim added a sportier appearance with a restyled front end, 20-inch wheels, and a larger lower air intake, although it didn't significantly enhance performance.

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, especially when fully loaded. The Tiguan's larger size and weight, with a curb weight of 3,757 pounds for FWD and 3,847 pounds for AWD, impacted its nimbleness. However, it offered a comfortable driving experience with a soft suspension and well-insulated cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Highlander offered smooth and predictable operation. While it wasn't designed for high performance, it provided adequate power for merging onto highways and compared well with competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, but the Highlander remained a comfortable family vehicle rather than a performance-oriented crossover.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality, with a second row of seats that could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. Front-drive models came standard with a third row, while AWD models offered it as an option. The third row, though not spacious, was more accommodating than many in larger vehicles. The Tiguan offered 65.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded and 73.5 cubic feet in two-row models, providing ample room for cargo. The driver's seat felt roomy, with plenty of hip and shoulder room, and the abundant glass made the Tiguan feel larger than it was.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander prioritized comfort and convenience, with large shelves ahead of the front seats for storage and a wireless charging pad in higher trims. The second row offered plenty of legroom, and the seats could move forward and backward to balance space between rows. However, the rear-seat climate control vents were only positioned on the ceiling, which could be uncomfortable for middle-row passengers. The Highlander provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows down, making it versatile for various needs.

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 upgrade in higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with bright colors, a responsive processor, and a glass surface. The Tiguan S had a single USB-C port, while higher trims had USB-A ports and a wireless charging pad. The Digital Cockpit, available on top SEL trims, offered a customizable digital instrument panel. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander offered an 8-inch touchscreen in lower trims and a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the Limited and Platinum trims. The larger screen was bright, crisp, and fast, though it only displayed certain apps in full width. Navigation was an optional feature, with mixed performance in locating points of interest. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a JBL audio system. The Highlander's infotainment system was easy to use, with physical volume and tuning knobs for convenience.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan came with an improved standard safety package, including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance and LED headlights with automatic high beams were reserved for the top SEL trim. The Tiguan also featured Car-Net, a telematics package offering remote locking, status checks, and vehicle location. The IIHS rated the Tiguan a Top Safety Pick for models with LED headlights, but most models had halogen headlights rated poor.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support, road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-tracing assist, and automatic high beams. The NHTSA awarded the Highlander five out of five stars, and the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+.