2024 Honda Passport vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

While many automakers resort to daring designs or flashy tech in their efforts to stand out amid a crowded midsize SUV market, Honda takes a different approach. The 2024 Honda Passport has been refreshed for this year, but few would notice. There are no big-screen TVs in this SUV, no futuristic materials or shocking styling choices. Instead, the Passport goes simple: a proven engine, easy-to-use technology, and enough (but not too much) capability to make it appealing in all weather.

Verdict: The Honda Passport’s V6 engine makes impressive power, and the TrailSport trim level tested in this review adds extra capability courtesy of some all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension. Although its 2024 refresh doesn’t make the Honda Passport a segment leader in any specific category, it will still find plenty of buyers who want a practical, spacious, safe, and reliable crossover SUV.

The all-new 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan corrects the last generation's user interface issues while making incremental improvements throughout the rest of the vehicle. The company’s best-selling model in North America easily meets expectations for a compact SUV, and is the only entrant with that German look and feel, though otherwise, it doesn't distinguish itself from the rest of the pack.

Verdict: The new Tiguan is a handsome crossover and the only German option in the sub-luxury segment. However, in amid an incredibly competitive field, the redesigned Tiguan does too little to separate itself from the crowd.