2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, distinguishing itself from its less attractive competitors. Its refreshed styling included a new front design that aligned with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's exterior was further enhanced with redesigned aluminum wheels and new nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate. The SUV was available in several trims, with the SEL R-Line offering a sportier look and a choice of four paint colors, including the striking Atlantic Blue Metallic. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line boasted a refined cabin with leather upholstery, advanced technology, and ambient lighting, though the lower half's hard plastic hinted at its mass-market status. Standard features included keyless entry, push-button start, and heated front seats, with additional options like remote engine start and a panoramic sunroof available on higher trims.

The 2021 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, was a nod to Buick's past grandeur, offering a large, impressive SUV that catered to modern consumer preferences. As the largest of Buick's SUV lineup, the Enclave was available in four trims, with the Avenir trim adding a unique grille, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels for added presence. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a luxurious interior with soft leather seats, a minimalist design, and polished accents, though the wood trim was not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity extended to its controls, with the exception of a somewhat fussy electronic transmission shifter. Despite this, the Enclave provided a comfortable and serene driving experience, thanks to its QuietTuning technology and laminated glass.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the option of VW's 4Motion AWD system. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with additional settings for AWD models. Despite its enjoyable drive, the Tiguan's engine exhibited some turbo lag, and its fuel economy was modest, achieving 24 mpg in combined driving. The Tiguan's ride and handling were satisfactory for everyday driving, though it lacked the excitement some Volkswagen enthusiasts might seek.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Enclave offered both FWD and AWD options. The V6's low torque peak contributed to strong acceleration, and the Enclave's ride was enhanced by a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping. The Enclave's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg in combined driving, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank. The Enclave's steering and braking were well-calibrated, though the steering response could have been quicker.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was notable for its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered a standard third-row seat in FWD models, while AWD models provided ample cargo space. The SEL R-Line trim featured comfortable leather seats with power adjustments, excellent visibility, and a panoramic sunroof. The second row was roomy, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available in AWD models.

The 2021 Buick Enclave excelled in interior space, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably. The Avenir trim offered luxurious seating with power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The Enclave's cabin was quiet and serene, thanks to Active Noise Cancellation and laminated glass. The second-row captain's chairs and third-row bench seat provided ample room, with easy access through large rear doors. Cargo space was impressive, with up to 97.6 cubic feet available with the second-row seats folded down.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a more advanced Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. However, the natural voice recognition feature required additional subscriptions. The Tiguan also offered a Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, it lacked advanced features like smart home integration and high-end audio components. The Avenir trim's 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the 10-speaker Bose sound system was underwhelming compared to competitors. The Enclave did offer a rear camera mirror for enhanced visibility.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with additional safety features in the IQ Drive package. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, while Emergency Assist could bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims, with the Driver Confidence Plus Package available on Premium and Avenir trims. This package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Enclave lacked advanced features like lane-centering assistance and self-parking. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.