Subaru crosstrek vs vw tiguan: which compact suv reigns supreme?

In the realm of compact crossovers, the Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Tiguan stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of versatility, capability, and comfort, making them popular choices among adventure-seekers and families alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Tiguan to help you make an informed decision about your next compact crossover.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Crosstrek exudes a rugged and utilitarian aesthetic, with its raised ride height, prominent roof rails, and black plastic cladding around the wheel wells. The Volkswagen Tiguan, on the other hand, presents a more refined and sophisticated exterior, featuring sleek lines, chrome accents, and available LED headlights.

Interior Comfort and Space

Inside, the Subaru Crosstrek offers a spacious and well-equipped cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers. The materials used are of high quality, and the dashboard layout is intuitive and user-friendly. The Volkswagen Tiguan boasts a more upscale interior with premium materials and advanced technology features. It also offers more spacious rear seats and a larger cargo area than the Crosstrek.

Performance and Handling

The Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offers optional all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in all conditions. The Volkswagen Tiguan offers a wider range of engine options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 184 horsepower and a 2.5-liter five-cylinder with 235 horsepower. It is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard.

Safety Features

Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Tiguan have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Tiguan offers a wider range of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Fuel Economy

The Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Tiguan offer comparable fuel economy figures. The Crosstrek achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive. The Tiguan gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive.

Off-Road Capability

The Subaru Crosstrek is renowned for its off-road prowess, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, raised ground clearance, and X-Mode system that optimizes performance on rough terrain. The Volkswagen Tiguan also offers all-wheel drive and an available 4Motion system, but its ground clearance is slightly lower than the Crosstrek’s, limiting its off-road capabilities.

Price and Value

The Subaru Crosstrek has a starting price of $22,945, while the Volkswagen Tiguan starts at $26,490. The Crosstrek offers a lower entry point, but the Tiguan offers a more upscale interior and a wider range of features and options.

Verdict: Subaru Crosstrek vs. Volkswagen Tiguan

The Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Tiguan are both excellent compact crossovers with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Crosstrek is a more affordable and off-road-capable option, while the Tiguan offers a more refined interior and a wider range of features. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Volkswagen Tiguan has a more spacious rear seat and a larger cargo area than the Subaru Crosstrek.

Q: Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has better off-road capabilities due to its standard all-wheel drive, raised ground clearance, and X-Mode system.

Q: Which vehicle offers the best fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek offers slightly better fuel economy than the Volkswagen Tiguan, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to the Tiguan’s 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a lower starting price of $22,945 compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan’s starting price of $26,490.

Q: Which vehicle offers more advanced safety features?
A: The Volkswagen Tiguan offers a wider range of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.