2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, distinguishing itself from its often less aesthetically pleasing competitors. Its refreshed exterior featured new front styling that aligned with Volkswagen's larger models, such as the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The restyled grille, standard LED headlights, and redesigned aluminum wheels contributed to its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the Tiguan Highline R-Line boasted a luxurious cabin with perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and metallic accents, although the lower half's hard plastic hinted at its mass-market status. The interior was equipped with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and keyless entry, enhancing its appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S offered a more dynamic and luxurious design. The Type S badge, a first for Acura SUVs, added subtle yet sporty elements, including chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets. The interior featured quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, creating an upscale atmosphere. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, detracted from usability. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV, though its design occasionally gave the impression of a dented side profile.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW's 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. Despite its nimble handling, the Tiguan's performance was hindered by turbo lag and a lack of power, resulting in a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's SH-AWD system, providing impressive cornering capabilities. The MDX Type S offered multiple driving modes, including a unique Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance enhancements didn't fully integrate, leading to issues with transmission response, ride compliance, and brake modulation. The MDX Type S also struggled with fuel efficiency, averaging 13.9 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in interior space, offering a roomy cabin comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. The Highline R-Line trim provided comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent visibility. The second row was spacious, accommodating adults and children alike. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. While comfortable, the seats didn't provide the expected support for spirited driving. The second-row seats were adjustable, but the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo area was practical, with a hands-free liftgate and ample storage space, though interior storage was limited due to design choices.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with standard digital gauges and the MIB3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM radio. The Highline R-Line trim added a 10.25-inch display, navigation, and a premium audio system. However, the voice recognition system was disappointing, making smartphone integration a more reliable option.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, but the lack of a touchscreen required the use of a True Touchpad Interface. This system, while innovative, was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens. The MDX offered wireless smartphone connectivity, Amazon Alexa, and a premium audio system with 25 speakers. A head-up display was available on higher trims, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were available, enhancing adaptive cruise control and lane-centring capabilities. The 2021 model earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with improvements expected for 2022.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a comprehensive suite of safety systems, including collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features like parking sensors and a surround-view camera were available on higher trims. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though some systems occasionally issued false warnings.