2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan was characterized by its clean lines and balanced proportions, offering a conservative and timeless aesthetic that appealed to those who appreciated understated styling. Despite its simplicity, the Tiguan's design was considered upscale and likely to age well. It was notably large for its class, providing a roomy interior that could accommodate up to seven passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The interior featured modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout, with some shiny detailing and digital instrumentation to enhance its otherwise somber tones. However, the presence of hard plastics and flimsy steering wheel stalks detracted from its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe presented a more dynamic and athletic appearance, with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa leather and a Dinamica suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech touch, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. The GLE Coupe's interior design masked its complexity with a facade of simplicity, though it required some acclimation to operate smoothly. Despite its sporty exterior, the GLE Coupe offered a surprising amount of room for passengers and cargo, though it was less spacious than the regular GLE.

The 2021 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, provided adequate performance but suffered from turbo lag, making it feel breathless during passing maneuvers. The Tiguan's nearly 4,000-pound curb weight contributed to this perception of lethargy. Fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models and 24 mpg for all-wheel drive, though real-world testing showed an average of 22.6 mpg. Despite its powertrain limitations, the Tiguan offered a pleasurable driving experience with light steering, a compliant ride, and nimble handling, though it struggled with sharper speed bumps and lacked suspension isolation.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, enhanced by an EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided robust acceleration and a fuel economy rating of 19 mpg combined, with real-world results at 18.5 mpg. The GLE Coupe's performance was further enhanced by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, and AMG Dynamic Select driving modes. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes contributed to its nimble and composed handling. In Sport+ mode, the GLE Coupe demonstrated impressive grip and braking performance, though its size and weight were noticeable on challenging roads.

Inside the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, comfort was prioritized with large doors, tall seating, and adjustable front seats for excellent visibility. The back seat offered generous legroom and foot space, with air conditioning vents and USB ports for added convenience. The Tiguan's cargo space varied depending on the presence of a third-row seat, ranging from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 73.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. Storage options were limited, but the panoramic sunroof and 40/20/40-split folding rear seat added versatility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, while technically seating five, was more comfortable for four passengers. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though rear visibility was limited. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold measured 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the luxurious feel of the GLE Coupe.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB3 infotainment system starting with the SE trim, offering an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connected services. While the system was an improvement, it had some quirks, and the standard six-speaker sound system struggled with bass-heavy music. Higher trims offered a nine-speaker Fender audio system and Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrumentation, providing a more refined technology experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video navigation, and an upgraded Burmester 3D audio system, enhancing the GLE Coupe's technological appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with the IQ Drive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and parking sensors. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS for SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims, though NHTSA crash-test results were incomplete.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered a comprehensive array of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and Pre Safe Sound. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems, such as Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.