2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, distinguishing itself from its competitors. Its refreshed exterior featured new front styling, aligning it with Volkswagen's larger models, and included standard LED headlights and redesigned aluminum wheels. The SUV's interior was upscale, with perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting, though the lower half's hard plastic hinted at its mass-market status. The Tiguan's lineup was simplified, offering various trims with both FWD and AWD options, and the SEL R-Line model stood out with its sportier appearance and attractive Atlantic Blue Metallic paint.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S offered a more luxurious and performance-oriented design. It featured chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior boasted Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, with the Type S Advance adding open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. However, the MDX's design had some drawbacks, such as a tapering body that could appear dented and gloss black plastic that complicated control usage. Despite these issues, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with power directed to the front wheels or optionally to all four via VW's 4Motion AWD. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with additional settings for AWD models. Despite its enjoyable drive, the Tiguan's engine exhibited some turbo lag, and its fuel economy was modest, achieving 24.7 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's SH-AWD system, which could direct up to 70% of power to a single rear wheel. The MDX Type S featured multiple driving modes, including a Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance enhancements didn't fully integrate, resulting in an inconsistent driving experience. The MDX Type S struggled with transmission indecisiveness, poor brake modulation, and subpar fuel economy, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It featured a standard third-row seat in FWD models, while AWD models provided ample cargo space. The SEL R-Line trim included leather seats with power adjustments, a panoramic sunroof, and excellent outward visibility. The second row was roomy and comfortable, with rear air conditioning vents and storage. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available in AWD models.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating and a versatile cargo area. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage, though the seats didn't fully support the performance-oriented mission. The second-row seat offered flexibility, with a removable center section and sliding functionality. However, the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's interior prioritized style over storage, with limited space in the center console. Cargo capacity was substantial, with up to 71.4 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and a premium audio system. However, the natural voice recognition required a subscription and was not active during testing. The Tiguan also offered a Park Assist system and various Car-Net connected services, including remote access and safety features.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, though the latter required the use of a True Touchpad Interface. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The MDX offered several sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system providing exceptional sound quality. The Advance package added a head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs. AcuraLink connected services were available, with a complimentary three-year subscription for certain features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with standard Front Assist and Side Assist systems. The IQ Drive collection included Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, and Emergency Assist, which could safely stop the vehicle if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements aimed to enhance its safety credentials.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured the Acura Watch suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it experienced a false collision warning during testing.