2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat disjointed compared to more cohesive designs like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander’s asymmetrical dash was interrupted by a metallic styling element, creating a helpful storage tray. The Bronze Edition featured light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, which seemed impractical for durability.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan maintained a conservative yet gracefully aging design. The SEL R-Line trim, with its sporty appearance and 20-inch wheels, looked more expensive than it was. The interior boasted quality leather upholstery, artificial wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof, creating an upscale feel. However, the dashboard's touch-sensing controls in gloss black plastic were criticized for usability issues, detracting from the overall experience.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered standard FWD, with an optional AWD system. The Highlander reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, with a soft ride quality and quiet cabin. However, the engine's drone during acceleration and hill climbs was noted as a downside.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The SEL R-Line came standard with AWD and offered various driving modes. While the Tiguan's powertrain had quirks like turbo lag and delayed downshifts, its dynamic qualities were rewarding, with excellent tire grip and stable handling. The ride was compliant, though road noise was noticeable.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with various trays and bins. The second row was spacious, but the third row was cramped, suitable only for children. Cargo space ranged from 16 to 84.3 cubic feet, depending on seat configuration.

The 2023 Tiguan provided roomy seating, especially in the rear, with generous legroom and headroom. The SEL R-Line's front seats were comfortable, featuring power adjustments and heating. However, the dashboard's touch controls were criticized for poor ergonomics. The cargo area was expansive, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 73.4 cubic feet with seats folded, offering more space than some midsize SUVs.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons aiding operation. Higher trims offered navigation and a JBL audio system.

The 2023 Tiguan featured digital instrumentation, with an 8-inch display on most trims and a 10.25-inch on the SEL R-Line. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its touch-sensitive controls were criticized for complexity. The voice-recognition system underperformed, lacking a data connection in the test vehicle.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems needed fine-tuning, with abrupt stops and false alarms noted.

The 2023 Tiguan excelled in safety features, offering Front Assist, Side Assist, and IQ.Drive with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The systems worked smoothly, but NHTSA testing was incomplete, and the IIHS rating did not apply for 2023.