2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a familiar sight, echoing Jeep's design traditions while offering a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. It launched with a variety of trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each delivering on its promise of capability or comfort. The design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille and tapered roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with options ranging from basic cloth seats to premium leather and high-end audio systems in the Summit Reserve.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan maintained its design from the previous year, offering trims like the sporty SEL R-Line. Despite a range of exterior and interior options, choices were limited by trim level. The SEL R-Line stood out with its sporty appearance and 20-inch wheels, while the interior boasted quality materials and a panoramic sunroof. However, the Tiguan's design was marred by restrictive color and feature combinations, making it challenging to find the perfect match.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a V6 and a V8 engine, with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The V6 produced 293 horsepower, while the V8 delivered 357 horsepower, enhancing towing capacity. Three 4WD systems were available, catering to different off-road needs. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions with features like Quadra-Drive II and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. Despite its off-road prowess, the Grand Cherokee maintained a refined ride on pavement, with the V6 being the more efficient engine choice.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The Tiguan's powertrain was adequate but lacked punch for passing maneuvers. The SEL R-Line trim included AWD and various driving modes, enhancing its versatility. While the Tiguan's handling was stable and predictable, the powertrain's quirks and a somewhat numb brake pedal detracted from the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort across all trims, with higher trims offering luxurious features like heated and ventilated seats. Visibility was improved, and the panoramic sunroof added an airy feel. However, rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in passenger and cargo space, especially in AWD models without the third-row seat. The SEL R-Line featured comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and a heated steering wheel. However, the dashboard's touch-sensing controls were problematic, affecting usability. The Tiguan's cargo area was spacious, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 73.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available in higher trims. The optional front passenger interactive display added convenience but came at a cost.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan included digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line boasting a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system offered wireless smartphone integration and a Fender premium sound system. However, the interface was complex, with multi-step processes for simple tasks. Voice recognition was subpar, often failing to connect.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured advanced driver assistance systems and a robust safety structure. New features included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, offering Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. A hands-free version was expected in 2022, enhancing its appeal.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in safety features, with standard Front Assist and Side Assist. The IQ.Drive package added adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. However, crash-test ratings were incomplete, with concerns about the driver's door unlatching during tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ for 2022, but this did not carry over to 2023.