2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a refined and conservative design that stood out among its competitors. Its updated front styling aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and optional illuminated grille bar. Standard LED headlights, new nameplate lettering, and redesigned aluminum wheels added to its appeal. The Tiguan lineup was simplified into S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line trims, with prices ranging from $25,995 to $36,995. The SEL R-Line model, priced at $37,970, showcased a sportier look with Atlantic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line boasted a luxurious 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.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered a modern retro aesthetic reminiscent of Land Rover, with a design focused on both urban and off-road appeal. Its short front and rear overhangs, tall fender wells, and minimal adornment were tailored for trail driving. The Bronco Sport's bold "BRONCO" lettering on the grille and tailgate, along with a discreet Ford badge, emphasized its rugged identity. Wheel options varied across trims, with sizes ranging from 17 to 18 inches and options for all-terrain tires. The interior featured a rugged yet uncluttered design, with unique HVAC vent shapes and an 8-inch infotainment screen. Storage was ample, with multiple cubbies and a rotary gear selector. Interior trim levels progressed from cloth to leather-trimmed seats, with options for heated and power-adjustable seats. The Bronco Sport's interior was designed for practicality, with features like a rubberized cargo floor and optional cargo management package enhancing its utility.

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 an optional 4Motion AWD system available. The AWD system could direct up to half of the power to the rear wheels, disengaging when not needed to save fuel. Drivers could choose from Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings available with 4Motion. Despite its 7.6 inches of ground clearance, the Tiguan was best suited for well-traveled paths. The suspension system included MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link independent rear suspension, with variable assist steering. The Tiguan's engine exhibited some turbo lag, but once engaged, it offered an enjoyable driving experience. Fuel economy was modest, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined for the R-Line with 4Motion.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine options: a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque for Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims, and a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque for Badlands and First Edition models. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD, with a terrain management system offering up to seven G.O.A.T. modes. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road, with a short wheelbase, independent suspension, and generous ground clearance contributing to its capability. On-road, the Bronco Sport demonstrated good manners, with the 2.0-liter engine providing a more suitable match for its character. The 1.5-liter engine, while capable, could sound strained under pressure.

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, though this feature was absent in 4Motion versions. The SEL R-Line trim provided exceptional comfort with leather-wrapped, power-adjustable front seats, excellent visibility, and a panoramic sunroof. The second row was roomy enough for adults and children, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard was a notable change, though it required some adjustment. Cargo space was generous, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded in 4Motion models.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport catered to active buyers with features like cargo space designed to accommodate two 27.5-inch-wheel mountain bikes. Ford offered over 100 accessories for transporting outdoor gear. The roof could support up to 150 pounds, and the 2.0-liter engine could tow up to 2,200 pounds. The cargo area featured a flip-up rear glass, optional cargo management package, and a slide-out work table. The front cabin offered ample storage, though visibility could be challenging for taller drivers. The seating position was not ideal for off-road visibility, but the interior was practical and well-suited for active lifestyles.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on all but the base model, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The SEL R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. Natural voice recognition required a subscription, and Car-Net offered various plans for remote access and additional features. The Tiguan also offered an available Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring SYNC 3, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordConnect with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard, with an available Bang & Olufsen sound system and 360-degree camera on higher trims. The terrain management system offered multiple G.O.A.T. modes, with trail control technology for off-roading. Intelligent access with push-button start was standard on all but the Base model, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and digital instrument panel available on higher trims.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with significant improvements to its IQ Drive systems. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, though engaging it could be challenging due to touch-sensing controls. Emergency Assist operated when Travel Assist was active, slowing the vehicle if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with hopes for improved scores in 2022.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport featured the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, including pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ was available on most trims, adding adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and navigation. AWD and a terrain management system with G.O.A.T. modes enhanced safety. Ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available.