2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse showcased a commendable exterior design, aligning with Chevrolet's recent trend of stylish SUVs. Its interior followed suit with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system, offering an appealing layout. However, the quality of materials used did not match the visual appeal. The hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather detracted from the overall impression, especially considering the Traverse's price point. The Z71 trim, tested with additional features like Radiant Red paint and a panoramic sunroof, had an MSRP of $55,900, including destination charges.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, embracing a modern aesthetic inspired by VW's electric vehicles. The front featured narrower headlights and an illuminated VW badge and light bar in the SEL R-Line trim. The grille appeared larger, with smaller actual openings, and the rear sported a single bar taillight. The interior modernization included a tablet-like infotainment display and a digital instrument panel, with a minimalist dashboard design. Materials were average for the class, with soft-touch areas and durable plastics in the rear. The Tiguan's exterior and interior updates reflected an evolution of VW's design language.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's exhaust note was not particularly pleasant, it delivered ample power, especially with all-wheel drive engaged. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, featured a higher ground clearance of 7.7 inches, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse excelled in off-road conditions, with its suspension and tires handling rough terrain effectively. Despite its size, the Traverse offered a smooth ride, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan retained a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, now producing 201 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and available 4Motion AWD provided smooth and linear power delivery. The Tiguan's acceleration was adequate for its class, reaching 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. The suspension favored comfort, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure in corners. The cabin remained quiet, with minimal tire and wind noise. The Tiguan's performance was balanced, catering to drivers seeking comfort over sportiness, with a more powerful Turbo variant expected in 2026.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered generous interior space, with a width that provided ample room for front seat occupants. The Z71 trim featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort. The Traverse accommodated up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, while our test vehicle had captain's chairs. The third row, though comfortable, lacked a view due to window design and had no USB ports. Cargo space was commendable, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet with seats folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second row.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan, now without a third row, offered increased second-row legroom by 1.5 inches. The interior improvements included the removal of capacitive-touch buttons, replaced by traditional controls on the steering wheel. Visibility was comparable to other small SUVs, with adequate storage in the center console and door pockets. Cargo capacity was not finalized, but the new design suggested a smaller area than the previous model. The Tiguan featured remote seatback releases and a power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store access. It also included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface was user-friendly, with effective voice recognition. The digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views, and optional features like a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system enhanced functionality.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan came standard with a digital instrument panel and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an optional 15-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless phone charger. The infotainment system featured capacitive-touch sliders, but a new volume knob improved usability. The Atmospheres feature combined ambient lighting and audio settings to enhance mood. The standard audio system performed well, with a premium Harman Kardon option available.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package featured Super Cruise, a hands-free driving assist system, and remote-parking technology. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan's safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Emergency Assist system could slow the vehicle to a stop if the driver was incapacitated. The SE R-Line trim added a head-up display, while the SEL R-Line included a surround-view camera system and semi-automated parking. The safety features functioned effectively, with no false alarms or over sensitivity issues reported.