2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan displayed a conservatively elegant design that set it apart from several unattractive rivals. With its creased, folded, and symmetrical lines, the Tiguan appealed to those who appreciated simplicity and minimalism in design. For 2022, Volkswagen refreshed the front styling of the Tiguan to align it more closely with the bigger Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. The new grille, carrying the updated VW logo and an available illuminated grille bar, added a touch of modernity to its exterior. Standard LED headlights, redesigned aluminum wheels, and updated nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate further enhanced its refined look.

The Tiguan lineup was streamlined for 2022 into S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line trims available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Prices ranged from $25,995 to $36,995, with a destination fee of $1,195. Our test vehicle, the SEL R-Line, featured standard 4Motion AWD and an accessory cargo cover, culminating in an MSRP of $37,970.

Colors like the Atlantic Blue Metallic bestowed a striking appearance on the SEL R-Line, complemented by machined-surface 18-inch alloy wheels that matched the SUV’s exterior brightwork. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line boasted a richer cabin feel, thanks to features like perforated and piped leather upholstery, touch-sensing steering wheel and climate controls, and ambient lighting with 15 color options. However, the lower half of the cabin, cloaked in hard plastic, somewhat diminished its upscale allure.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass emphasized a more refined and upscale aesthetic, evolving from its previously rugged Jeep image. This year’s Compass models showed off new 17-inch wheels for the Sport and Latitude trims, and gloss black wheels for the Trailhawk. The Compass Red editions came in black, silver, and red paint options, mirroring an elevated design philosophy akin to the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered five core trims along with special editions, including the Sport, Latitude, Latitude Lux, and Limited trims. The Trailhawk trim catered specifically to off-road enthusiasts. The price range varied from just under $32,000 to over $40,000, with our Limited test model priced at $45,800, inclusive of the $1,595 destination fee.

Our Limited test vehicle, wrapped in Granite Crystal paint and equipped with multi-spoke 19-inch wheels, evoked a miniaturized Grand Cherokee aesthetic. Inside, the two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents reflected an upscale feel, thanks to sophisticated digital displays and metallic trim. Despite its ambition, some might argue that Jeep overreached with the as-tested price.

For 2022, the Volkswagen Tiguan retained its reliable powertrain, featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 1,900 rpm. Power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels or through an optional 4Motion AWD system, which could transfer up to half of the power to the rear wheels when needed. Four driving modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, and programmable Individual—were standard across all trims. 4Motion-equipped models also included additional settings like Onroad, Snow, Offroad, and Custom Offroad.

Despite its power, the engine exhibited some turbo lag, particularly noticeable when accelerating from a stop. Once past the initial lag, the Tiguan’s torque made driving enjoyable. However, the Tiguan’s fuel economy didn’t stand out, with the EPA rating the R-Line with 4Motion at 24 mpg combined. Our short test drive around Malibu yielded a 24.7 mpg average.

The Tiguan’s ride and handling were solid for everyday driving, bolstered by clear communication between human and machine typical of German engineering. Still, pushing it to its limits revealed some shortcomings in tires and suspension, which might be disappointing for VW loyalists seeking more fun.

The 2023 Jeep Compass redeemed its past powertrain disappointments with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque accessible between 1,750 rpm and 4,250 rpm. The engine connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a standard Jeep Active Drive AWD system. The Compass offered three driving modes: Auto, Snow, and Sand/Mud, with Trailhawk models featuring a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system for more demanding off-road conditions.

Our test drive in Malibu highlighted the Compass Limited’s improved performance on pavement, while the Trailhawk proved capable on dirt and rocky paths. However, the turbocharged engine, while quieter and more refined than its predecessor, lacked the power of other 2.0-liter turbos in the Jeep lineup. The official EPA rating stood at 27 mpg combined, but our mixed driving test averaged 23.8 mpg.

Despite its improved powertrain, the Compass’ tall and narrow stance resulted in noticeable lateral and vertical body motions over uneven surfaces. Additionally, the standard AWD system’s delayed engagement allowed for wheelspin during hard acceleration on both pavement and dirt.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in interior space and comfort. It was among the largest in the compact SUV segment, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs like the Chevrolet Blazer and Hyundai Santa Fe. The Tiguan offered a standard third-row seat in FWD models, absent in 4Motion models. Our SEL R-Line test vehicle featured leather-wrapped front seats with eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The panoramic glass sunroof brightened the cabin, enhancing visibility.

In the second row, the Tiguan accommodated adults comfortably, making it family-friendly, with essential conveniences like rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. However, the new touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use.

Cargo space was another area where the Tiguan shined. FWD models with the third row offered 12 cubic feet behind it, 33 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 65.5 cubic feet overall. Our 4Motion test vehicle offered even more, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 73.4 cubic feet of total cargo capacity, rivalling midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Jeep Compass provided adequate space in a narrower frame, accommodating adults in both rows. An air filtration system and available dual-zone automatic climate control contributed to interior comfort. Standard cloth upholstery in lower trims contrasted with available leather in higher trims, with features like an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated and ventilated front seats.

Our Limited test model showcased Jeep’s best, offering a comfortable driving position with ample adjustments. The rear seat also provided decent comfort, though legroom was limited if front seats were reclined. Interior storage was modest, with small bins and a wireless charging pad occupying potential storage space.

In terms of cargo, the Compass offered a competitive 27.2 cubic feet behind the back seat, adjustable to maximize volume or create underfloor storage. Folding the rear seat expanded the cargo space to 59.8 cubic feet. Some models featured a fold-flat front passenger seat for easier transportation of long items.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard digital instrumentation, branded as Digital Cockpit, ranging from 8 inches in most versions to 10.25 inches in the SEL R-Line’s Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in all but the base Tiguan S, boasted an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring with App-Connect. The SEL R-Line received a redesigned navigation system and a premium nine-speaker Fender audio system.

However, natural voice recognition in the MIB3 system fell short, with limited functionality without a Plus Speech upgrade and an active Car-Net Hotspot subscription. Nevertheless, the Car-Net Remote Access plan remained complimentary for five years, offering features like remote engine start and family alerts. The Park Assist system, standard in the SEL R-Line, autonomously aided parking.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass boasted a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Uconnect 5, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth for dual devices. SiriusXM Guardian services and OTA updates ensured the system stayed current. Depending on the trim, it could include a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, embedded navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system.

Our Limited test model included Alexa Built-in technology, which proved responsive and accurate, even controlling cabin temperature. The Compass also featured a parking assist system and surround-view camera, making parking easier despite the Jeep’s compact size.