2023 Acura RDX vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among its competitors with a design that was both creased and symmetrical, leaning towards a conservative aesthetic. This approach, while not eliciting strong emotions, was appreciated for its simplicity and minimalism, ensuring the vehicle aged gracefully. The refreshed front styling aligned the Tiguan with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a new grille with the updated VW logo and available illuminated grille bar. Standard LED headlights, new nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate, and redesigned aluminum wheels added to its refined look.

The Tiguan lineup for 2022 was simplified, offering S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line trims with either FWD or AWD. Prices ranged from $25,995 to $36,995, with a destination charge of $1,195. The SEL R-Line test vehicle, priced at $37,970 MSRP, featured a sportier look, especially in the SE R-Line Black trim with its blacked-out appearance. The Atlantic Blue Metallic paint and machined-surface 18-inch alloy wheels enhanced the vehicle's exterior appeal. Inside, the SEL R-Line boasted a luxurious cabin with leather upholstery, new technology, touch-sensing controls, and ambient lighting in 15 colors, though the hard plastic lower half hinted at its mass-market status.

The 2023 Acura RDX was noted for its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in with other vehicles in its class. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights and deep bodywork creases, gave the RDX a sporty and aggressive front look. The side profile featured a distinctive character line suggesting forward movement, while the rear design was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs.

Inside, the RDX's cockpit had a vertical layout, with the center stack of controls flowing into the center console, dominated by gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, with physical climate controls below. The instrument panel combined a digital center display with analog gauges, emphasizing the RDX's sporty intent. While the interior design was not as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar layout for those averse to the latest glass cockpits, though it might disappoint those seeking cutting-edge design.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 pound-feet of torque at 1,900 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission transferred power to the front wheels, with an optional 4Motion AWD system that could send up to half the power to the rear wheels. 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 Tiguan's MacPherson struts in front and multi-link independent rear suspension, along with variable assist steering, provided a nimble and responsive driving experience. However, the engine's torque arrived later than some turbocharged engines, resulting in momentary turbo lag. The Tiguan's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined, with our test drive averaging 24.7 mpg. While the Tiguan was enjoyable to drive, it lacked the outright fun factor, which might matter to Volkswagen loyalists.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with the SH-AWD system available on all models and standard on top trims. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, with immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine and exhaust sound. The transmission provided smooth gear selection, and the brake pedal offered reassuring firmness.

The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and ample traction from the advanced AWD system. It cornered with a sporty feel while maintaining ride comfort, smoothing over road imperfections and mid-corner bumps. The RDX's broad performance range and comfortable ride made it an attractive option for many shoppers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a giant among compact crossover SUVs, with an interior spacious enough to rival smaller midsize SUVs. FWD models featured a standard third-row seat, while 4Motion models did not. The SEL R-Line offered comfortable leather-wrapped front seats with eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The second row was roomy enough for adults and children, with rear air conditioning vents, a USB charging port, and ample storage.

Cargo space was among the best in its class, with FWD models offering 12 cubic feet behind the third row, 33 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with the second row folded. The 4Motion model provided 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded, comparable to midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered generous front seat space, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in top trims. The heated and ventilated seats provided quick comfort, while the rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might touch the headliner. The large panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open and airy feel.

Cargo space behind the rear seats measured 31.1 cubic feet, slightly larger than competitors. A deep bin under the cargo floor with a center drain plug added versatility. Folding the rear seats expanded capacity to 79.8 cubic feet, with remote seatback levers for easy transformation. Front passengers had ample storage options, though the center stack's gear selector buttons and drive mode dial took up unnecessary space.

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 in all but the base S trim, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, App-Connect smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The SEL R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system.

Natural voice recognition required a Plus Speech upgrade and an active Car-Net Hotspot subscription, which was not active in the test vehicle. Car-Net's Remote Access plan was complimentary for five years, offering remote engine start, door lock operation, vehicle location, and Family Guardian alerts. Additional plans included Safe & Secure and Hotspot, with various upgrades available.

The 2023 Acura RDX's touchpad infotainment controller was challenging to use, though it improved with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen and was out of reach. The infotainment system itself had sharp graphics, quick responses, and logical menus. Standard features included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. The top A-Spec Advanced trim featured a 16-speaker ELS audio system with potent bass and clear high notes.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard Front Assist and Side Assist. The IQ Drive collection added Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, and Emergency Assist, which slowed 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 2023 Acura RDX received five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection, and four stars for frontal and rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera and head-up display.