2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid was a study in subtlety and sophistication. From the outside, the RX 350h Luxury model was nearly indistinguishable from its non-hybrid counterpart, save for a discreet badge on the liftgate. The Iridium silver test vehicle, with its sleek 21-inch wheels, maintained a classic Lexus aesthetic without overt hybrid branding. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its bold Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling cues, signaling its performance-oriented nature. Inside, the RX Hybrid models embraced a minimalist design, with the RX 350h Luxury featuring plush Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance opted for a sportier all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum accents.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan exuded a European flair that set it apart from its competitors. The SEL R-Line trim, which was tested, featured LED headlights and taillights, an illuminated grille light line, and silver roof rails, adding to its premium appearance. The Tiguan's exterior design was complemented by a fashionable rear end with the model name prominently displayed. Inside, the Tiguan offered a mix of practicality and style, though the base trim's limited color options and the configurator's complexity could be frustrating. The SEL R-Line's interior boasted real leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a host of comfort features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a touch of luxury in a compact SUV.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrain options, each catering to different driving preferences. The RX 350h, with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, delivered 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving an estimated 36 mpg in combined driving. Despite its lower power output compared to the previous RX 450h, it managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds, making it a practical choice for efficiency-minded drivers. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, on the other hand, packed a punch with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This model accelerated to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, thanks to its Direct4 AWD system and six-speed automatic transmission. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 20.9 mpg during testing.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Tiguan offered a smooth driving experience, though power delivery could be inconsistent at times. The standard front-wheel drive configuration provided 27 mpg combined, while opting for the 4Motion AWD system reduced this to 25 mpg. The Tiguan's handling was commendable, with good visibility and maneuverability, though the steering felt light and rubbery. Overall, the Tiguan delivered a comfortable ride, but its performance was not as spirited as the RX 500h F Sport Performance.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in comfort and practicality. The RX 350h Luxury model featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather, standard seat heating and ventilation, and a three-zone automatic climate control system. The RX 500h F Sport Performance offered eight-way power-adjustable front seats with larger side bolsters and standard-grade leather. Both models housed their battery packs under the rear seat, providing excellent leg support and good legroom, though rear headroom was slightly compromised. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down, a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan provided a spacious interior, though the seating configuration varied depending on the drivetrain. The FWD models offered a third row, seating up to seven passengers, while the AWD models, including the SEL R-Line, seated five. The two-row Tiguan boasted 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. In the three-row configuration, cargo space was reduced, but passenger space remained generous, with ample headroom and legroom in the first two rows. The Tiguan's compact crossover design allowed for a practical and versatile interior, though the third row was best suited for occasional use.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, bringing the SUV up to date with modern technology. The Lexus Interface offered a range of connected services, though a subscription was required after the trial period. The system featured a cloud-based navigation system, Intelligent Assistant, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the interface had some drawbacks, including limited screen multitasking, reflections on the display, and a lack of a tuning knob. The available head-up display added convenience, but its functionality was hindered by polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan's infotainment system featured an 8-inch center touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base Tiguan S had a smaller 6.5-inch screen, while higher trims offered additional USB-C ports and wireless charging. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with the SEL R-Line featuring a fully configurable 10.25-inch display. The infotainment graphics were monochromatic, which felt out of place in the stylish interior. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System on the SEL R-Line provided excellent sound quality, making it a worthwhile upgrade for audiophiles.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. This included a new motorcycle detection system, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance with front cross-traffic alert, and curve-speed reduction for adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist was also available, enhancing safety by maintaining a safe following distance and recharging the battery through regenerative braking. However, some features, such as the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had limitations that could be frustrating for drivers.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, and its safety features were further enhanced for 2024. The standard IQ.DRIVE suite included adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, Lane Assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. These features provided semi-autonomous highway driving and enhanced safety in various scenarios. Additional safety features included rain-sensing wipers, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection. Park Distance Control was available on higher trims, though its effectiveness was mixed.