2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, distinguishing itself from its competitors. Its refreshed exterior featured a new front styling that aligned with Volkswagen's larger models, a restyled grille with the new VW logo, and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's lineup was simplified into four trims, offering both FWD and AWD options. The SEL R-Line trim, in particular, showcased a sportier look with its Atlantic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line boasted a sophisticated cabin with leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new technology, although 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 2022 Buick Encore GX, while similar in appearance to its sibling, the Encore, offered a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, giving it a more balanced look. The optional ST appearance package enhanced its aesthetics with body-color moldings, custom grille, and sport bumpers. Inside, the Encore GX provided a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather seats on the top Essence trim. The heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and straightforward controls added to the user-friendly experience. Despite its compact size, the Encore GX offered adequate front-seat space, though rear-seat knee room was limited. Cargo space was practical, with a two-level cargo floor and a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.

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 powered the front wheels, with an optional 4Motion AWD system available. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with additional settings for AWD models. Despite its power, the Tiguan experienced some turbo lag, impacting acceleration from a stop. Fuel economy was modest, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined for the R-Line with 4Motion. The Tiguan's ride and handling were satisfactory for everyday driving, though it lacked excitement for more spirited driving.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engine options: a 1.2-liter with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter with 155 horsepower. FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter engine provided adequate power, though it was somewhat noisy. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise and vibration levels. Despite this, the CVT performed well, and the Encore GX handled everyday driving tasks competently.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact SUVs with 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, accommodating adults and children alike. Cargo space was generous, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available in AWD models. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, offered a comfortable and user-friendly interior. Front-seat space was adequate, though rear-seat knee room was limited. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and an optional hands-free power liftgate for added convenience. Controls were clearly marked and easy to use, contributing to a pleasant driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line featuring a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, offered an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM radio. However, natural voice recognition required an additional subscription. The Car-Net system provided remote access features, while the SEL R-Line included a Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Available features included navigation, Amazon Alexa, and a head-up display. The Advanced Technology package added HD surround vision, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Encore GX's infotainment system was intuitive and user-friendly, with efficient voice recognition.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard Front Assist and Side Assist systems. The IQ Drive collection included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing safety and convenience. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with improvements expected for 2022.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assistance features, including Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. It earned five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS. The Encore GX's crash prevention systems received "Superior" ratings, though headlight ratings varied by trim.