2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, adding character to its traditionally conservative styling. While maintaining its recognizable boxy profile and blunt front end, the XC90 introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism" with high-quality materials and thoughtful design, featuring matte-finish wood trim and unique upholstery options like wool and Nappa leather. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury to the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, refreshed with a creased and symmetrical design, maintained a conservative yet timeless appearance. The new front styling aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's 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, with its Atlantic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch alloy wheels, exuded a sporty vibe. Inside, the Tiguan offered a rich cabin with perforated leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting. However, the hard plastic in the lower cabin revealed its mass-market status. The Tiguan's updated design and features aimed to keep it fresh until a full redesign.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger for 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. The T5 came with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional, while the T6 and T8 had standard AWD. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 excelled in luxury, offering a smooth ride with an optional air-suspension system and a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, though less than some rivals.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission delivered power to the front wheels, with optional 4Motion AWD. The Tiguan offered Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings for AWD models. Despite its 7.6 inches of ground clearance, the Tiguan was best suited for well-traveled paths. The suspension and steering provided a nimble feel, but the engine's torque arrived later than some competitors, causing turbo lag. The Tiguan's fuel economy was modest, with the R-Line achieving 24 mpg combined. While enjoyable to drive, the Tiguan's performance was limited, appealing more to average consumers than performance enthusiasts.

The 2021 Volvo XC90, a three-row SUV, offered six or seven-seat configurations with second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat. While headroom and legroom were average, the third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. An optional power moonroof and upright roof profile enhanced the spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Storage was limited, with a shallow center console and minimal console storage. Cargo space was near the segment's bottom, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with all seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, a compact crossover, offered a spacious interior comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. FWD models included a standard third-row seat, while 4Motion models did not. The SEL R-Line trim provided comfortable leather-wrapped front seats with eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. Visibility was excellent, aided by a panoramic sunroof. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children with ease. The Tiguan's switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard was less user-friendly than traditional buttons. Cargo space was generous, with 12 cubic feet behind the third row, 33 cubic feet with it folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with the rear seat down. The 4Motion model offered 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 73.4 cubic feet maximum capacity.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. It included a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Two front USB-A ports and two rear USB-C ports were standard, with a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display available. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though the text and typeface could be challenging to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line featuring a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on all but the base S trim, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, App-Connect smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM 360L radio. The SEL R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. Natural voice recognition required a Plus Speech upgrade, which was not active during testing. Car-Net offered Remote Access for five years, with additional plans for Safe & Secure and Hotspot services. The Tiguan also featured an available Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top "Good" scores in crash tests and "Superior" front-crash prevention ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard Front Assist and Side Assist on the S trim. The IQ Drive system added Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, and Emergency Assist, which could safely stop the vehicle if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improved driver aids and LED headlights aimed to enhance its safety credentials.