2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its evolution with a refreshed design that enhanced its rugged appeal. The front end was restyled to appear wider and more assertive, while new LED taillights and a trim strip added a modern touch to the rear. Inside, the Explorer's interior saw significant improvements, with upgraded materials and design making it more competitive in its segment. Ford streamlined the trim levels, offering four distinct options, each catering to different preferences and budgets.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, embracing a sleek, modern aesthetic inspired by VW's electric vehicles. The front featured narrower headlights and a larger grille, while the rear showcased a sportier silhouette with a fastback-like illusion. The interior was modernized with a minimalist dashboard and digital instrument panel, enhancing the sense of space. The removal of capacitive-touch buttons improved usability, and the center console offered increased storage.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engine options. The standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder produced 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the ST and Platinum trims featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. All models came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive. The Explorer's driving modes catered to various conditions, and the ST-Line trim provided a sporty feel with larger wheels and performance brakes.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with front-wheel drive and optional 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Tiguan's acceleration was smooth and adequate for most drivers, with a focus on comfort and quietness. While not sporty, the Tiguan handled well, and a more powerful Turbo version was anticipated for 2026.

The 2025 Ford Explorer accommodated six passengers, with an optional second-row bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The interior featured comfortable seating, especially in the ST-Line trim, with heated and power-adjustable options. Cargo space was competitive, offering 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan, lacking a third row, provided increased second-row legroom. The interior improvements included traditional button controls and enhanced storage options. While cargo capacity figures were not finalized, the Tiguan offered practical storage solutions and a power liftgate on higher trims.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The B&O sound system varied by trim, with the Platinum and ST offering a premium experience.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan came standard with a digital instrument panel and a 12.9-inch touchscreen, with an optional 15-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the center console featured a wireless phone charger. The Tiguan also offered a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims included BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. While NHTSA ratings were pending, the Explorer received high marks for side-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan included advanced safety features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added a head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The Tiguan's safety systems performed reliably during testing.