2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a refined and conservative design, distinguishing itself from its more ostentatious competitors. Its updated front styling aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's exterior was complemented by redesigned aluminum wheels and new nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate. In Canada, the Tiguan was available in four trim levels, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and prices ranged from $33,395 to $43,395. The interior of the Highline R-Line trim boasted a sophisticated cabin with leather upholstery, touch-sensing controls, and ambient lighting, though the lower half's hard plastic betrayed its mass-market status. Standard features included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with additional options like a panoramic sunroof available.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a rugged and athletic appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform, long hood, and rakish roofline. The Explorer's diverse lineup included six models, with prices starting at $47,799. The interior of higher-trim Explorers combined quality materials with some less impressive elements, but overall, it felt worthy of its price. The Explorer's cabin was spacious for families, though the third-row seat was best suited for children. Fully equipped models featured amenities like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a power-adjustable steering wheel. However, practical storage space was limited, and the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,132 litres available when both rear rows were folded down.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission delivered power to the 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. Drivers could choose from Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional settings for different terrains. The Tiguan's ride and handling were nimble and responsive, though it lacked the power and performance some might expect. Fuel efficiency was rated at 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test achieving 9.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The Explorer's hybrid option combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,540 kilograms. Fuel consumption varied depending on the powertrain, with the hybrid offering the best efficiency at 9.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a spacious compact crossover, with an interior that rivalled smaller midsize SUVs. The Highline R-Line trim offered comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent outward visibility. The second row provided ample headroom and legroom, while the optional third row was best for occasional use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families, with the option to carry five people with a second-row bench seat. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with available massaging features, while the second-row seats were nearly as accommodating. The third-row seat was difficult for adults to access and lacked legroom. Practical storage space was limited, though the Explorer offered thoughtful features like built-in cupholders and a hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space was ample, with up to 2,132 litres available when both rear rows were folded down.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line trim offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The Highline R-Line trim added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender premium audio system. However, the voice recognition system was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line trim.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims featured wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera system, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen premium sound system. However, the voice recognition system was less advanced than Ford's newer Sync 4 technology, and the larger touchscreen appeared as an afterthought in the dashboard design.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard safety features like Front Assist and Side Assist. Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, was available, though its touch-sensing controls were challenging to use. Emergency Assist was another upgrade, bringing the Tiguan to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements could enhance its score.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured a post-collision braking system and MyKey programmable vehicle functions. The system operated smoothly, though the steering wheel's sensitivity to the driver's hands was occasionally problematic.