2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was admired for its creased, folded, and symmetrical design that leaned towards a conservative yet refined aesthetic common to other Volkswagen models. The newly refreshed styling brought it more in line with VW’s larger Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, featuring a restyled grille with a new VW logo and an illuminated bar. LED headlights were made standard, and new nameplate lettering adorned the rear liftgate. The aluminum wheels were redesigned, and buyers had the choice of trims ranging from S to SEL R-Line with prices from $25,995 to $36,995. Notably, the R-Line models, including the SE R-Line Black with its trendy blacked-out appearance, exuded a sportier look.

Inside, the SEL R-Line trim offered a visually appealing cabin with perforated and piped leather upholstery, touch-sensing steering wheel and climate controls, and ambient lighting with 15 color options. The metallic accents added an upscale touch, even though hard plastics somewhat diluted the luxury feel.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a comprehensive redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial look. The vehicle grew in size, with dimensions reflecting an increase of 3.4 inches in length, up to 1.5 inches in width, and 0.8 inches in height compared to the outgoing model. This amplified size complemented the TrailSport model, equipped with off-road enhancements like a one-inch taller ride height, unique wheels, and robust tires.

The interior layout of the Pilot adopted a more conventional style compared to its predecessor, prioritizing functionality and versatility. Honda maintained the quality of materials expected in the class, demonstrating a preference for a clean, efficient design that favored practicality over eye-catching aesthetics.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained the same powertrain as its predecessor, featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, directing power to the front wheels or optionally to VW’s 4Motion AWD system. Drivers could select from various driving modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, and programmable Individual—while the AWD models included additional Offroad settings and Hill Descent Control for enhanced off-road capability.

Despite its reasonably powerful engine, the Tiguan exhibited some turbo lag, necessitating extra caution during sudden accelerations. Fuel economy was pegged at 24 mpg in combined driving for the R-Line with 4Motion, although our test drive in Malibu yielded an average of 24.7 mpg. In terms of ride and handling, the Tiguan proved nimble and responsive for everyday driving but faltered under more spirited maneuvers, making it less appealing for performance enthusiasts.

On the other hand, the 2023 Honda Pilot came equipped with a brand-new 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, mated to a new 10-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard for most models, with AWD available across the lineup and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot’s acceleration was swift and responsive, with a soft brake pedal suitable for family-oriented driving. It cornered confidently in conservative driving conditions, though with noticeable body roll during sharper turns, reflecting its comfort-focused tuning.

The TrailSport trim enhanced the off-road capability with an additional inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, striking a balance between on-road comfort and off-road prowess, consistent with its family SUV role.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in interior space, positioning itself competitively against smaller midsize SUVs. FWD models offered a standard third-row seat, adding to its versatility, while our SEL R-Line trim provided a spacious and comfortable cabin with leather-wrapped, power-adjustable front seats. The second row accommodated adults comfortably and featured amenities like rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo capacity for the FWD model with the third row was limited to 12 cubic feet but increased to 33 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The AWD model boasted better cargo space, offering 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 73.4 cubic feet when folded flat.

The 2023 Honda Pilot prioritized practicality with thoughtful features tailored for family use. The standard models came with a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a nine-inch display on higher trims. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including a dash shelf, multiple cupholders, and a large center console bin capable of holding a full-sized tablet. Notably, the second-row center seat could be removed or stowed to create a pass-through, adding to its convenience. The third row provided adequate space for average-sized adults on short trips, while cargo capacity measured 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 60.1 cubic feet with the second row folded flat, and 114.3 cubic feet in total cargo volume, outperforming the Tiguan significantly.

For 2022, the Volkswagen Tiguan introduced standard digital instrumentation across all trims, with the SEL R-Line featuring an advanced Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen and features like App-Connect and SiriusXM 360L, was standard except on the base model. Higher trims benefited from a navigational system and a premium Fender audio system. However, natural voice recognition proved unreliable unless a paid subscription was active, making smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto more practical.

Conversely, the 2023 Honda Pilot encouraged stepping up to the EX-L trim for enhanced technological features such as a larger touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, a wireless charger, and USB ports for all rows. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, a head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system offered a responsive interface, though graphics were less modern, prioritizing functionality. Additional features on higher trims comprised Honda’s CabinTalk, navigation, Bose audio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The TrailSport and Elite trims also featured the TrailWatch camera system for improved off-road visibility.

Volkswagen made noteworthy safety enhancements for the 2022 Tiguan, incorporating Front Assist and Side Assist as standard features. The IQ Drive suite added Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering, and Emergency Assist, which could safely bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver was unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned IIHS Top Safety Pick status, and the 2022 model aimed to maintain or improve that rating.

The 2023 Honda Pilot matched these safety expectations, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and anticipating superior NHTSA ratings. Standard Honda Sensing features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, a blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims offered low-speed automatic braking and front and rear parking sensors, while the TrailSport and Elite trims featured surround-view cameras for enhanced safety.