2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious, three-row SUV. The 2021 model featured softened angles and lines, giving it a sleeker appearance compared to its predecessors. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric design.

The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 included remote keyless entry, remote start, nine USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. The GLS 580 added a V8 engine, heated-and-cooled front seats, massaging front seats, and more. The AMG GLS 63 stood out with aggressive bodywork, quad-outlet exhaust, and a performance-inspired interior, including a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel with a leather stripe.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, refreshed for the model year, maintained a conservative yet timeless design. The new front styling aligned it with Volkswagen’s larger Atlas models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan lineup was simplified to S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line trims, with prices ranging from $25,995 to $36,995. The SEL R-Line test vehicle, priced at $37,970, showcased a sportier look with blacked-out elements and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line offered a rich cabin with perforated leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting in 15 colors. The touch-sensing steering wheel and climate controls added a modern touch, though they were less intuitive than traditional buttons. The Tiguan’s spacious interior, especially in the second row, made it comfortable for adults and children alike. Cargo space was generous, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down in the 4Motion model.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph.

The GLS 63’s adaptive air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance, enhancing both cornering and obstacle clearance. Multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, adjusted throttle response, transmission mapping, suspension stiffness, and steering feel. The E-Active Body Control system ensured a smooth ride, even on rough roads, making the GLS feel more maneuverable than its size suggested.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 pound-feet of torque at 1,900 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission sent power to the front wheels, with optional 4Motion AWD available. The AWD system could decouple the rear axle to save fuel when not needed. Drivers could choose between Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings for 4Motion models.

The Tiguan’s MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, combined with variable assist steering, provided a nimble and responsive driving experience. However, the engine’s torque arrived later than some competitors, resulting in momentary turbo lag. Despite this, the Tiguan offered a balanced ride, though it lacked the outright fun of some rivals. Fuel economy was decent, with the R-Line 4Motion achieving around 24 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain’s chairs. The third row, while less spacious, was still suitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rows down.

The GLS featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a combination cup-holder/wireless-charging pad. The center console, though not large enough for a purse, provided additional storage.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, a standout among compact crossovers, offered a spacious interior comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. FWD models included a standard third-row seat, though 4Motion models did not. The SEL R-Line’s front seats featured leather upholstery, eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The second row was roomy and comfortable, with rear air conditioning vents and a USB charging port.

Cargo space in the Tiguan was impressive, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down in the 4Motion model. FWD models with the third-row seat had 12 cubic feet behind the third row, 33 cubic feet with it folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like “Find me a gas station,” enhancing convenience. The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line boasting a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in all but the base S trim, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The SEL R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. However, the natural voice recognition system required a Plus Speech upgrade and an active Car-Net Hotspot subscription.

Car-Net offered remote engine start, door lock operation, and vehicle location services. The Safe & Secure plan included automatic crash notification and emergency assistance, while the Hotspot plan provided a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Tiguan also offered an available Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included Front Assist and Side Assist as standard on the Tiguan S. The IQ Drive collection added Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, and Emergency Assist, which could safely bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model’s new safety features could potentially improve this rating.