As China’s domestic SUV market continues to flourish, the competition between homegrown and international brands has grown intense. Today, we present a head-to-head comparison of two formidable contenders in the same SUV segment: the Geely Xingyue L and the Volkswagen Tiguan. In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll explore their differences in exterior design, interior features, space, and powertrains. Join us as we delve into the details. (Please note that we’ll be comparing the 2021 Geely Xingyue L 2.0TD DCT EVO Two-Wheel Drive Luxury trim with the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan L 330TSI Automatic Two-Wheel Drive R-Line Enjoyment Edition.)

Geely Xingyue L vs. Volkswagen Tiguan: A Detailed Comparison of 2.0T SUVsExterior Design: The Geely Xingyue L exudes the brand’s distinctive design language. Its shield-shaped grille features multiple chrome vertical bars, and the lines extending from the hood connect seamlessly with the grille. The grille boasts an attractive concave pattern, while the well-structured headlight units and the sporty lower bumper add dynamism. On the other hand, the Volkswagen Tiguan L opts for a horizontal slat grille, also adorned with chrome accents, integrating neatly with the headlights. The Tiguan L emphasizes elegance more than sheer strength.

Interior Features: Inside the Geely Xingyue L, the center console impresses with its use of various color-accented materials. The attention to detail, along with chrome and lacquered panel embellishments, elevates the sense of luxury. The highlight of the interior is the three-screen setup on the dashboard, catering to the growing demand for in-car tech. In contrast, the Volkswagen Tiguan L keeps its interior more minimalistic, with a standard T-shaped center console featuring horizontal lines. It also incorporates chrome and carbon fiber trim, maintaining the expected level of sophistication.

Infotainment Systems: The Geely Xingyue L’s 12.3-inch infotainment system features a fresh UI design, offering improved display clarity and simplified user interaction. Its white-themed background exudes elegance, and the additional third screen in front of the passenger provides extra entertainment options. The two screens can be interconnected, delivering a high-tech experience. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Tiguan L boasts a signature 12-inch floating touchscreen, with added features like high-definition navigation, Himalaya integration, and remote home control via voice commands, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Interior Space: While the Geely Xingyue L is positioned as a compact SUV, the Tiguan L falls into the midsize SUV category. Despite this, the Xingyue L boasts dimensions of 4770 x 1895 x 1689mm and a 2845mm wheelbase, making it a strategic competitor. It offers ample legroom for 180cm passengers, with headroom to spare. The Tiguan L provides similar legroom and headroom, ensuring a spacious seating experience.

Storage Capacity: The Geely Xingyue L excels in storage options. In the front, it provides independent smartphone slots, conventional storage compartments, and even a hollowed-out storage space below the gear lever. This space not only offers a 12V power source but also includes USB and Type-C ports. While the Tiguan L has fewer storage compartments, it maintains adequate storage capacity in the door panels and central armrest. Both vehicles can easily accommodate three 20/24/28-inch suitcases in their respective cargo areas.

Powertrains: Under the hood, the Geely Xingyue L boasts a 2.0T engine, with two power variants available for both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models. In today’s comparison, we’re looking at the two-wheel-drive version with a maximum power output of 160kW (218Ps) and a peak torque of 325N·m, mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission. In contrast, the Volkswagen Tiguan L offers two power variants for its 2.0T engine as well. The 330TSI model, which we’re analyzing today, delivers a maximum power of 137kW (186Ps) and a peak torque of 320N·m, coupled with a 7-speed DCT gearbox.

Driving Experience: The Geely Xingyue L delivers a linear power output, thanks to its impressive torque performance. It responds actively even at low engine speeds, making city driving effortless. Its mid to high-range acceleration is equally smooth, and the 7-speed DCT ensures seamless shifts, reflecting a balanced and composed driving style. The Volkswagen Tiguan L, with years of iteration, maintains its reputation for a well-matched powertrain. Its throttle calibration is steady, and power response remains robust, offering a typically refined German driving experience.

Conclusion: In this comprehensive comparison across four dimensions, the Geely Xingyue L stands out with its interior design and spaciousness, making it particularly appealing to young consumers. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Tiguan L boasts a strong brand advantage. When considering price, the Geely Xingyue L demonstrates a clear advantage. How do you view these two models?