2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan boasted clean lines and balanced proportions, exuding a conservative, upscale, and timeless aesthetic. Its understated design might have been seen as boring to some, but its elegance was undeniable. The vehicle’s larger size for its class, with a roomy interior nearly comparable to the Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento, added to its appeal.

The upscale look extended to the Tiguan's interior, which featured modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout typical of German engineering. Shiny detailing and a digital instrument cluster dressed up the cabin's otherwise somber tones. However, the presence of hard plastic materials and flimsy steering wheel stalks detracted slightly from its premium feel.

In contrast, the fifth-generation 2022 Nissan Pathfinder took design cues from Nissan’s modern SUV lineup, flaunting a signature V-motion grille, slim LED headlights, and sleek taillights. It paid homage to the original Pathfinder with its three-slot grille and chunky C-pillar. The Pathfinder was available in 14 paint jobs with a variety of color combinations, adding to its visual appeal.

The Pathfinder’s design changes aimed to position it as a more robust and capable vehicle. Its wider track and slightly bulkier dimensions gave it a planted look on the road, which, combined with its new styling, made it more on-trend with models like the Kia Telluride than its main competitors like the Toyota Highlander.

Under the hood, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 4,360 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at a low 1,600 rpm. Despite experiencing some turbocharger lag, the Tiguan provided a generally enjoyable driving experience with responsive steering, compliant ride quality, and nimble handling. However, its nearly 4,000-pound curb weight contributed to a sense of lethargy during more demanding driving situations. The Tiguan’s fuel efficiency was average, achieving 25 mpg combined in FWD and 24 mpg in AWD models. Testing revealed a slightly lower performance at 22.6 mpg.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine from the previous model, offering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a new nine-speed automatic transmission, the Pathfinder offered a smoother and more efficient driving experience compared to its predecessor. Available in FWD and AWD configurations, the Pathfinder featured a variety of drive modes to suit different terrains.

Pathfinder's fuel efficiency was on par with its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined in both FWD and AWD configurations. The vehicle’s suspension improvements provided a stable ride, with responsive steering and a tight turning radius making it easy to maneuver. Its 6,000-pound towing capacity, class II tow hitch, and trailer harness made it a versatile choice for those needing to haul heavy loads.

Comfort was a strong point in the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. Large doors and high seating points made entry and exit easy, while the front seats offered a range of adjustments for optimal support. The rear seat provided excellent occupant support, generous legroom, and ample clearance for reverse-facing child safety seats. Storage, however, was less accommodating, with limited storage spaces for personal items.

The Tiguan’s cargo capacity ranged between 33 and 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and from 65.7 to 73.5 cubic feet with the seats folded flat, depending on whether the model included the third-row seating option.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder emphasized interior comfort and usability. Enhanced sound insulation minimized road noise, and thoughtful design touches like wide-opening doors and the ability to fit up to five car seats provided flexibility for families. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology allowed easy access to the third row and made loading and unloading passengers effortless.

Cargo space in the Pathfinder was impressive, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 45.0 cubic feet with the second row up, and a maximum of 80.5 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. The under-floor storage provided an additional 54 liters of space, making it practical for transporting a variety of items.

Volkswagen’s 2021 Tiguan introduced the MIB3 infotainment system starting with the SE trim, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with faster processing times and expanded services. Highlights included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, WiFi for up to four devices, and various connected services. However, the standard six-speaker sound system was subpar, with noticeable distortion at higher volumes.

Higher trims like the SEL and SEL Premium R-Line included a digital cockpit for instrumentation and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. Volkswagen's technology approach was largely functional but somewhat understated compared to competitors.

Nissan equipped the 2022 Pathfinder with a wealth of standard technology features: a six-speaker audio system, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. The driver-information display was digital, and upper trims offered even more, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and head-up display.

The Pathfinder’s higher trims provided a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless charging, and additional USB ports. This comprehensive suite of technology made the Pathfinder a strong contender in its class for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with IQ Drive, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning became standard from the SE trim upwards. However, the system's performance was somewhat inconsistent, particularly in recognizing cut-in traffic and accelerating when the road cleared. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS in SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims thanks to high-performing LED headlights.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder featured standard Safety Shield 360, encompassing automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Additional safety features included a driver alertness monitor, rear door alert, and forward-collision warning. A surround-view monitor was available on upper trims, and the Pathfinder Platinum featured 11 airbags.