2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, marking the beginning of its second generation. This transformation included a striking new exterior with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and a floating roof effect enhanced by blacked-out pillars. The interior was equally impressive, featuring a wide, open feel with quilted leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The craftsmanship and build quality were top-notch, reflecting Infiniti's commitment to luxury and comfort.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan maintained its previous updates with minimal changes. The SEL R-Line trim, which we tested, boasted a sporty appearance with 20-inch wheels and adaptive front lighting. The interior offered upscale materials, including leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof. However, the touch-sensing controls on the dashboard and steering wheel were less user-friendly, detracting from the overall experience. Despite this, the Tiguan provided ample passenger and cargo space, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivered a smooth and serene ride, with improved driving dynamics compared to the previous CVT-equipped model. The QX60's suspension and steering provided a comfortable and controlled driving experience, although it wasn't designed for aggressive cornering. Fuel economy was respectable, with FWD models achieving 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway/23 mpg combined.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan, on the other hand, came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, with AWD models featuring additional off-road settings. While the powertrain wasn't the smoothest, the Tiguan's dynamic qualities were rewarding, with excellent tire grip and stable handling. The EPA estimated fuel economy at 24 mpg combined, though our testing yielded 22.6 mpg.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 excelled in interior space and versatility, with three rows of seating and ample storage options. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, which offered generous legroom. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 75.4 cubic feet of space available when both rear rows were folded. The QX60 also had a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds with the optional towing package.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan provided a spacious interior, especially in AWD models without the third-row seat. The SEL R-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. However, the dashboard's touch-sensing controls were less intuitive. The Tiguan's cargo area was generous, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. FWD models offered a third-row seat but reduced cargo space.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 impressed with its technology offerings, including a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The Autograph trim featured a 10.8-inch head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. Infiniti's Intelligent Key and a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system were also available, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line featuring a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the touch-sensitive controls were cumbersome. The Tiguan's voice-recognition system was underwhelming, often failing to connect. Despite these quirks, the Tiguan offered a comprehensive suite of connected services and a premium Fender sound system.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 was equipped with a comprehensive array of safety features, including multiple airbags, forward emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on all but the base trim, offering advanced driver assistance capabilities. While crash-test ratings were not available, the previous generation received high marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in safety technology, with standard Front Assist and Side Assist systems. The IQ.Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Tiguan's safety features were effective and unobtrusive, though NHTSA testing revealed a concern with the driver's door unlatching during a side-impact test. The IIHS awarded the 2023 Tiguan a Top Safety Pick+ rating for the 2022 calendar year.