2022 Kia Telluride vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan was characterized by its clean lines and balanced proportions, offering a conservative and upscale aesthetic that many found timeless. Despite some opinions labeling its design as understated, the Tiguan's large size for its class and roomy interior made it a practical choice. The interior was marked by modern geometric forms and a no-nonsense control layout, though it featured more hard plastic than some might prefer. The Tiguan offered a range of trims, including sporty R-Line variants, with pricing from $25,245 to $39,095.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Telluride boasted a muscular design with balanced proportions, appealing to consumers with its trendy blacked-out wheels and trim. Kia made minimal changes to the Telluride's design for 2022, maintaining its handsome midsize SUV appeal. The interior was both upscale and functional, with thoughtful details like overhead air vents and USB ports in all three rows. The Telluride's interior quality, especially in the SX Prestige trim, gave the impression of a more expensive vehicle, with features like Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. While the powertrain was adequate, it suffered from turbocharger lag, affecting its responsiveness. The Tiguan's nearly 4,000-pound curb weight contributed to a perception of lethargy during acceleration. Fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined for FWD and 24 mpg for AWD, though testing showed an average of 22.6 mpg for the AWD model. Despite these drawbacks, the Tiguan offered a pleasurable driving experience with light steering and a compliant ride, though it struggled with sharper speed bumps and corners.

The 2022 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for its size. The eight-speed automatic transmission and available AWD with Lock mode enhanced its performance. The Telluride's ride quality was supple, and it handled well on both dry pavement and challenging conditions like snow and mud. Fuel economy was consistent with EPA estimates, achieving 21.1 mpg in testing. The Telluride's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for families.

Inside the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, comfort was a priority, with large doors and adjustable front seats providing excellent support and visibility. The back seat offered generous legroom and foot space, with air conditioning vents and USB ports for passengers. The Tiguan's cargo space varied depending on the presence of a third-row seat, ranging from 33 to 37.6 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 73.5 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Kia Telluride excelled in balancing form and function, with an upscale interior design and practical features like grab handles and overhead air vents. The SX Prestige trim offered premium Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner. All three rows of seats were comfortable for adults, and the Telluride provided ample storage space. Cargo capacity was 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with seats folded, making it ideal for hauling large items.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB3 infotainment system starting with the SE trim, offering an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connected services. However, the system had some quirks, and the standard six-speaker sound system struggled with bass-heavy music. Higher trims included digital cockpit instrumentation and a nine-speaker Fender audio system.

For 2022, the Kia Telluride came standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including navigation and voice recognition. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wire, the Telluride offered USB ports in all rows and a wireless charging pad in most trims. Kia Connect provided a suite of connected services, including emergency assistance and remote features. The Telluride also featured Quiet Mode and Driver Talk functions, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with IQ Drive, offering features like forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS in certain trims, though NHTSA ratings were incomplete.

The 2022 Kia Telluride included Kia Drive Wise, with features like forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Highway Driving Assist and Smart Cruise Control-Curve were also available. The Telluride earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS, though it missed the highest award due to headlight ratings.