2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, priced at $75,000 for the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, featured a unique Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite these touches, its design remained largely unremarkable, with a massive front grille and a rising sheetmetal profile. The RX lineup included three models: the RX 350h with 246 hp and 36 mpg, the RX 500h with 366 hp and 27 mpg, and the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid offering 37 miles of electric range and 35 mpg. All models came with standard AWD, with prices ranging from $52,875 to $72,710. Inside, the RX boasted a contemporary design with quality materials, though some controls were confusing.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, adopting a modern look inspired by VW's electric vehicles. The front featured narrower headlights and a larger grille, while the rear showcased a sportier tapering hatch. The interior was modernized with a minimalist dashboard and a digital instrument panel. The Tiguan offered improved second-row legroom and eliminated capacitive-touch buttons in favor of traditional controls. Storage was enhanced with a reconfigured center console, though cargo capacity details were not finalized. The Tiguan's design evolution brought a fresh, streamlined appearance.

The Lexus RX Hybrid offered three distinct powertrains. The RX 350h, with 246 hp, prioritized efficiency but had a droning CVT. The RX 450h+ PHEV delivered 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time, while the RX 500h, with 366 hp, featured a turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line acceleration but lacked dynamic capability, averaging 20.9 mpg in testing. Its adaptive damping suspension and Direct4 AWD system provided a firm yet quiet ride, though communication between driver and road was limited.

The 2025 Tiguan was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 201 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with optional AWD. The Tiguan's acceleration was expected to be around 8.5 seconds to 60 mph, offering smooth power delivery. The suspension favored comfort, maintaining composure on winding roads. The Tiguan's cabin was quiet, and braking was confident. A more powerful Turbo version was anticipated for 2026, promising increased performance.

The Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality, offering heated and ventilated front seats, though they were snug. Rear seats were spacious and comfortable, with a panoramic sunroof. Interior storage was ample, but cargo space was limited to 29.6 cubic feet, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded.

The 2025 Tiguan improved second-row legroom by 1.5 inches, enhancing passenger comfort. The elimination of capacitive-touch buttons improved usability, and visibility was comparable to other SUVs. The center console offered increased storage, with large door pockets and a versatile armrest bin. Cargo capacity details were pending, but the Tiguan featured remote seatback releases and a power liftgate on higher trims.

The Lexus RX Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a volume knob and climate control dials. A 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was optional, though steering wheel controls were distracting.

The 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, paired with a wireless phone charger. The Tiguan introduced Atmospheres, a mood-enhancing feature, and offered a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system on top trims.

The Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect with a 10-year free subscription, offering collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provided advanced driver assistance features, though some functions were cumbersome. The RX received a five-star NHTSA rating but a Poor IIHS rating for frontal-impact protection.

The 2025 Tiguan's safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitor. Higher trims added a head-up display and a surround-view camera. Safety systems functioned well, with no false alarms or oversensitivity.