2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was a testament to rugged design, with its boxy, no-nonsense aesthetic that appealed to off-road enthusiasts. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. Its iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders, adorned with the American flag, added to its classic Jeep charm. The Wrangler's interior was practical, featuring easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls, though it lacked the luxury touches found in more upscale SUVs.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan exuded a more refined and premium appearance, often perceived as more sophisticated than its non-European competitors. The Tiguan's exterior was marked by standard LED headlights and taillights, with an illuminated grille light line on the SEL R-Line trim. The interior offered a mix of practicality and style, though the color and material options were somewhat restrictive. The Tiguan's design was more about understated elegance, with a focus on comfort and functionality, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was built for off-road adventures, offering a range of engine options to suit different driving needs. The standard V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder provided 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more torque, the 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 offered 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Rubicon 392 model, with its 6.4-liter V8 engine, boasted 470 horsepower and torque, making it a powerhouse for off-road enthusiasts. However, the 392's on-road performance was hindered by inadequate brakes and vague steering, issues not present in less powerful Wrangler trims.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan came standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The Tiguan's power delivery was inconsistent, with some lag in acceleration, but it offered good visibility and handling. The ride was comfortable, though the firm seating surfaces drew some complaints. Overall, the Tiguan provided a balanced driving experience, suitable for everyday use.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, though rear seating was tight, especially in the two-door model. Storage space was limited, with a small glove box and center console, and the cargo area provided 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Wrangler's various top options allowed for a customizable open-air experience, with the Sky One-Touch power soft top being the most convenient. The Wrangler excelled in providing charging points, with multiple USB ports and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan, in its two-row configuration, offered 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The three-row version reduced cargo space but maintained passenger comfort in the first two rows. The Tiguan provided ample headroom and legroom for front and second-row passengers, though the third row was tight. Despite its compact size, the Tiguan managed to offer a practical and spacious interior, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system, though initially complex, offered useful off-road information and supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Wrangler's tech was practical, with a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories, but lacked advanced features like a digital key or comprehensive over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the graphics were monochromatic. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with the SEL R-Line offering a fully configurable 10.25-inch display. The Tiguan's tech package was robust, with features like wireless charging and a nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System on higher trims, providing a well-rounded technological experience.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control as standard. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were only standard on the top 392 model. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims' headlights rated poorly.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, and for 2024, it included the IQ.DRIVE suite of driver-assistance features as standard. This suite offered adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. The Tiguan's safety package was comprehensive, with additional features like Park Distance Control available on higher trims, making it a strong choice for safety-conscious buyers.