2025 Acura MDX vs 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a sophisticated exterior that many considered more premium than its non-European counterparts. The German crossover's design was enhanced by standard LED headlights and taillights, with an illuminated grille light line on the SEL R-Line trim. The model name was prominently displayed in all-caps at the rear, alongside the classic Volkswagen badge. However, the color options were limited, especially for the base Tiguan S, which was only available in grayscale. The interior offered a range of features, from heated front seats in the base model to leather upholstery and advanced seat adjustability in the SEL R-Line.

In contrast, the 2025 Acura MDX underwent subtle exterior updates, including a new grille and revised bumpers, which enhanced its sporty appearance. The interior saw significant changes with the introduction of a new touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous touchpad interface. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims featured luxurious 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The cabin was quieter due to added sound insulation, and the controls were logically placed for ease of use. The MDX's new A-Spec Advance trim combined luxury with a sportier look, and the lineup offered a range of trims to suit different preferences and budgets.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and an optional 4Motion all-wheel drive for an additional $1,500 on lower trims. The AWD version had a slightly larger fuel tank, accommodating the system's impact on fuel economy. The Tiguan's performance was a mixed experience, with inconsistent power delivery and a touchy gas pedal. However, it offered good visibility and handling, making it feel maneuverable for its size.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered a choice between a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower in the Type S model. The standard engine provided good power for the midsize SUV, with a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Individual, with the A-Spec Advance trim achieving 21 mpg in combined driving. The MDX excelled in handling, providing a smooth and comfortable ride, though it was not designed for off-roading.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a two-row configuration in the AWD models, providing 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The three-row FWD models had reduced cargo space, with 12 cubic feet behind the third row. Passenger space was ample in the first two rows, but the third row was tight, suitable only for children. Despite its compact size, the Tiguan was one of the few in its class to offer a third row.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured luxurious 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions in the Advance trims. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a pass-through to the third row. The third row was less comfortable for adults, best reserved for children. The MDX offered 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 71.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The cabin provided adequate storage, with a new center console and wireless charging pad.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan featured haptic touch slider buttons for climate control, which were responsive and easy to use. The infotainment system had an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the graphics were monochromatic. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with a fully configurable 10.25-inch screen on the SEL R-Line. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System was a highlight, offering excellent sound quality.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. The system was intuitive, with seamless integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX featured an upgraded sound system, with Bang & Olufsen audio available in higher trims. The digital instrumentation display and head-up display provided clear and comprehensive information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with the 2024 model offering improved safety features. The standard IQ.DRIVE suite included adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. Additional features included rain-sensing wipers, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch collection of driver assistance features, with an expanded AcuraWatch 360 available on the Type S Advance. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though SH-AWD models lacked a rollover resistance rating. The AcuraWatch 360 added advanced features like front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning.