The Acura and the VW both have a single engine option of the same type: a 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder engine. Does this level the playing field? We’ll let their powertrain outputs do the talking:

• Acura RDX: 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque
• VW Tiguan: 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque

The RDX can pull more power from its depths, and it will be noticeable as you drive. With almost 100 more horsepower, the Acura will smoothly accelerate and jet past other drivers—including those in the VW Tiguan!

So, these SUVs have the same engine. How does the Acura RDX pull off its heightened abilities? It uses a 10-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift paddle shifters to optimize gear shifts and propel you down the road effortlessly. The VW offers an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ plays a factor, too! This drivetrain enhances wheel grip, which makes acceleration more engaging and solidifies your drive during inclement weather. In comparison, the Tiguan comes standard with front-wheel drive and makes 4Motion® all-wheel drive available.

Is more space guaranteed in the bigger VW Tiguan? We took out the measuring tape to find out!

After taking a closer look, we’ve found the Tiguan offers less space for its seven passengers, which may leave everyone feeling cramped. However, even with a full house, the RDX leaves plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the ride.

Does the same ring true for cargo space? Actually, when all seats are folded down, the Acura RDX offers more room yet again! You’ll have up to 79.8 cubic feet to fill up with all your getaway gear. Luggage, sleeping bags, coolers, reusable grocery bags, you name it.

The VW Tiguan isn’t far behind, with 65.3 cubic feet when its second and third rows are folded down. However, the extra room in the Acura lets you extend your vacation or overpack all you want.

Your main information hub in the Acura is a 10.2-inch HD dual-content center display. Its large size will make the screen’s icons easier to click and see! Navigating the screen is easy, too, thanks to the True Touchpad Interface™ located in the center console. Everything you do on your phone is now possible on this helpful hub.

The VW Tiguan opts for a 6.5-inch touchscreen on its base trim. An 8-inch display is available on higher trims; however, it’s still not as large as the RDX’s standard offering.

So, how can you turn these SUVs’ main displays into an extension of your smartphone? By using any of these integrations:

• Bluetooth®
• Apple CarPlay®
• Android Auto™

The Acura RDX has even more ways to connect! If you’re an Apple user, you can bring Siri on the road with you, thanks to Siri® Eyes Free. If Alexa is a common name in your household, the Acura is also Amazon Alexa capable. Both integrations are unavailable on the VW.