2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model, featuring Luxury trim, showcased impressive 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX's styling was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350, excluding the yet-to-be-released TX 550h+.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, marking its third generation. It adopted a modern aesthetic inspired by VW's electric vehicles, notably with narrower headlights and an illuminated VW badge and light bar in the top SEL R-Line trim. The grille appeared larger, with prominent air intakes, giving the front a bold look. The side profile featured a sportier tapering hatch, enhanced by a contrasting roof and tinted windows. The rear showcased a single taillight bar, echoing the front's design. Inside, the Tiguan embraced a minimalist approach with a tablet-like infotainment display and digital instrument panel, offering a more spacious feel.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with FWD, slightly quicker with AWD. The engine's performance was adequate, though the engine note and torque steer with FWD could be irritating. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, but testing showed an average of 20.4 mpg. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, increasing output to 201 horsepower but reducing torque to 207 pound-feet. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering FWD and optional 4Motion AWD. The Tiguan's acceleration was expected to reach 60 mph in about 8.5 seconds, providing smooth and linear power delivery. The suspension favored comfort, managing bumps well while maintaining composure in corners. The cabin remained quiet, enhancing the driving experience. A more powerful Turbo version was anticipated for 2026, offering 268 hp and 258 lb-ft, along with a teased hybrid powertrain.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain’s chairs. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing better leg support and visibility. Cargo space was generous, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. However, second-row legroom was limited, affecting comfort when accommodating third-row passengers.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan returned without a third row, improving second-row legroom by 1.5 inches. The interior featured traditional buttons, enhancing usability. Visibility was comparable to other small SUVs, and the center console offered ample storage. Cargo capacity details were pending, but the area appeared smaller than the previous model. The angled liftgate limited loading bulkier items, but deep pockets provided secure storage. Remote seatback releases and a power liftgate added convenience.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with an optional Technology Package, including a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were drawbacks. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It offered a three-year Drive Connect subscription with cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. Additional services included Service Connect, Safety Connect, Wi-Fi Connect, and Remote Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a standard digital instrument panel and 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an optional 15-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, paired with a wireless phone charger. A new volume knob replaced capacitive-touch sliders, and the Atmospheres feature combined ambient lighting with audio settings. The standard audio system had seven speakers, with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon system available. VW's Car-Net system included remote monitoring and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance, though it was not always transparent. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system generally performed well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan's safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Emergency Assist and post-collision braking were also standard. The SE R-Line added a head-up display, while the SEL R-Line included a surround-view camera and semi-automated parking. The safety systems functioned effectively without false alarms.