2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 brings the Swedish automaker’s signature style and solid engineering to one of the most popular luxury SUV segments. Slotting between the XC40 and XC90 in size, the XC60 competes against compact SUVs like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infiniti QX50, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. With so many choices, Volvo needed to keep the XC60 fresh. So, the automaker gave it some notable updates for the 2022 model year.

The current version of the XC60, representing the model’s second generation, has been around since the 2018 model year. For 2022, it gets new mild-hybrid powertrains, mildly updated exterior styling, and the Android-based infotainment system previously seen in the electric Volvo XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2.

The reshuffled 2022 XC60 lineup for Canada includes the B5 mild hybrid with the base Momentum, and the B6 mild hybrid in Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription trim levels. The carryover Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid is also offered in Inscription, R-Design, and sporty Polestar Engineered guises. We spent a day driving the B6 R-Design model.

The Tiguan is larger inside than many of its rivals, and it is one of two vehicles in its segment to offer a third-row seat. In addition, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is more upscale in appearance and enjoyable to drive than many of its primary competitors.

However, the Tiguan is imperfect, and some people may decide its flaws are too significant to consider owning one. Especially people who are easily frustrated by technology. Its competition set is vast and includes the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5 and CX-50, and more.