2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical styling. This approach, while not overly emotional, was appreciated for its simplicity and timelessness. The updated front styling aligned the Tiguan with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The SEL R-Line trim, in particular, stood out with its sportier look and Atlantic Blue Metallic paint, complemented by 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Tiguan offered a refined cabin with leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and modern technology, though the lower half's hard plastic hinted at its mass-market roots.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid maintained a sharp and streamlined profile, with styling that was both familiar and distinct. Despite its age, the NX's design remained appealing, especially with the F Sport Black Line's aggressive elements like the larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels. The interior, while initially radical, had become familiar, featuring a stepped center console and sporty dashboard. The F Sport package added unique touches like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery, though the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury. The NX's design choices, including the analog dashboard clock, offered a mix of sportiness and functionality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional 4Motion AWD system available. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with additional settings for AWD models. Despite its enjoyable drive, the Tiguan's engine exhibited some turbo lag, and its fuel economy was modest at 24 mpg combined. The suspension and steering provided a balanced ride, though pushing the vehicle revealed limitations in handling.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total of 194 horsepower. Standard AWD provided traction, but the NX's performance was more focused on efficiency than speed, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The hybrid system struggled with transitions between electric and gasoline power, affecting acceleration. The F Sport package improved handling with sport-tuned suspension, offering agility and comfort. However, the steering lacked feedback, and the drive modes had minimal impact on performance, emphasizing the NX's focus on fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan offered impressive interior space, comparable to midsize SUVs. The SEL R-Line trim provided comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent visibility. The second row was spacious, accommodating adults and children alike. Cargo space was generous, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available in AWD models. However, the switch to touch controls on the dashboard proved challenging to use.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had less interior space, with limited rear headroom and legroom. The front seats were comfortable, with power adjustments and available heating and ventilation. The sloping roofline and thick pillars affected rear visibility, though exterior mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited, with 53.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. The NX's sporty design offered functional dashboard controls but might not appeal to those seeking a traditional SUV feel.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a 10.25-inch display. The MIB3 infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and a premium audio system. However, natural voice recognition required additional subscriptions. Car-Net services offered remote access and safety features, with optional upgrades for navigation and radio.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use touchpad interface. While compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker upgrade available. The overall experience was hindered by outdated graphics and complex menus.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The IQ Drive system added Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. The 2021 model earned a "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS, with improvements expected for 2022.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The NX offered a comprehensive safety package, though a 360-degree camera system was absent.