2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan displayed an aesthetic of clean lines and balanced proportions, embodying a conservative yet upscale feel that promised to age well. Often spotlighted for its timeless design, the Tiguan presented a large frame for its class, rectifying past sizing missteps with its second-generation long-wheelbase version. This made the interior space nearly as expansive as competitors like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. Inside, the Tiguan boasted a roomy and accommodating interior, ideal for up to four adults and capable of seating five. An optional third-row seat increased the capacity to seven, though better suited for children. The VW cabin combined modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout, with some quirks like the engine start button's unconventional position. The blend of shiny detailing, digital instrumentation, and a flush touchscreen infotainment system kept the ambiance upscale, though excessive hard plastic and somewhat flimsy steering wheel stalks detracted from a genuine premium feel. In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander showcased a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design. Flared fender arches and the distinct kick-up of the third-row window attempted to downplay its spaciousness. Inside, the Highlander offered a copious amount of cabin space, ideal for modern families with practical storage solutions for iPads and juice boxes. Particularly striking was the XSE trim model, outfitted with a bold red optional leather interior juxtaposed against a sedate navy blue exterior. Unique exterior touches, ambient interior lighting, and a sport-tuned suspension distinguished the XSE trim within the lineup. Across its trims, from L to Platinum, the Highlander offered an extensive array of conveniences like power-adjustable seats, three-zone climate control, various upholstery options, and advanced tech features, enhancing both comfort and functionality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 4,360 rpm and 221 pound-feet of torque at a mere 1,600 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission sent power to the front wheels, with an optional 4Motion AWD system. While this powertrain proved adequate, it was marred by noticeable turbo lag, leading to delayed acceleration. Additionally, the Tiguan’s nearly 4,000-pound curb weight contributed to perceptions of lethargy during rapid acceleration demands. EPA ratings indicated the Tiguan achieved 25 mpg combined with FWD and 24 mpg with AWD. However, real-world testing revealed a slightly lower average of 22.6 mpg for AWD models. Despite the fuel economy shortcomings, the Tiguan offered light and responsive steering, compliant ride quality, refined braking, and tossable handling, providing an overall pleasurable driving experience. However, sharper impacts like speed bumps highlighted the suspension’s lack of isolation. Meanwhile, the 2022 Toyota Highlander came equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. Power was distributed via an eight-speed automatic transmission, with both FWD and AWD options available. Enhanced driving dynamics were provided through various drive modes, such as Sport, Normal, and Eco, and differing AWD modes like Mud/Sand and Rock. The V6 engine offered smooth acceleration, particularly during highway driving and overtaking maneuvers. Despite an average towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the Highlander excelled in handling, aided by the XSE trim’s sport-tuned suspension which minimized body roll while maintaining ride comfort over bumps. Overall, the Highlander presented a well-rounded performance package suitable for various driving conditions.

Inside the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, comfort reigned supreme. Easy ingress and egress, thanks to large doors and high seating hip points, complemented the wide range of front seat adjustments ensuring proper support and excellent visibility. Volkswagen’s V-Tex leatherette upholstery closely mimicked genuine leather, and the dual-zone climate control system was effective. Ample legroom, foot space, and supportive back seats enhanced rear passenger comfort, complemented by air conditioning vents and USB ports. The Tiguan’s cargo space offered flexibility with its 40/20/40-split folding rear seats, facilitating the combination of long-item storage and passenger capacity. Cargo volume varied from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 65.7 to 73.5 cubic feet with seats folded flat, depending on the presence of the optional third-row seat. The 2022 Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, showcased impressive cargo capacity with 84.3 cubic feet of storage space with both second and third-row seats folded down. The capacity reduced to 48.4 cubic feet when the third-row was stowed, and to 16 cubic feet with all seats in use. The quick-release latches and easy lift mechanisms facilitated lowering and raising the seats, respectively. Most trims, including Limited and Platinum, came with a power liftgate, augmenting convenience. The Highlander’s cockpit featured a wealth of storage options, including deep front door pockets, a central dash tray, and a spacious center console. Second-row captain’s chairs provided additional space and ease of access to the third row, which, although less spacious, was adequate for short trips. This arrangement, combined with extensive cup holders and USB ports, highlighted the Highlander’s family-friendly design.

For 2021, the Volkswagen Tiguan adopted the MIB3 infotainment system from the SE trim and above. This upgrade introduced an 8-inch touchscreen with faster processing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, WiFi capability, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Despite the technological leap, the MIB3 system still displayed quirks in user interface and voice recognition technology, and the base six-speaker sound system underperformed, particularly at higher volumes. Higher trims like SEL and SEL Premium R-Line featured more advanced technologies, including the Digital Cockpit instrumentation and a superior nine-speaker Fender audio system. The 2022 Toyota Highlander’s base system included an 8-inch touchscreen, paired with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Additionally, a WiFi hotspot and multiple USB ports were standard. The intuitive hard button controls flanking the touchscreen provided ease of use, a notable feature amidst modern touch-centric designs. Higher trims offered a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument panel, and an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system, catering to tech-savvy users seeking enhanced multimedia experiences.

Volkswagen endowed the 2021 Tiguan with its IQ Drive suite of safety features. These included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Advanced trims incorporated adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and front and rear parking sensors. While effective, the Highlander’s lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist systems were notably active, sometimes to the point of intrusiveness, especially on narrow back roads.