Toyota RAV4 vs Volkswagen Tiguan: Which to Buy

Toyota RAV4 starts at $31,900; the Volkswagen Tiguan starts at $30,805. Before taxes and fees, the Volkswagen Tiguan is $1,070 less. Toyota RAV4 makes more power, 203 hp against 201 hp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Toyota RAV4 or the Volkswagen Tiguan cheaper?
The Volkswagen Tiguan costs less to start. Toyota RAV4: $31,900 plus $1,450 destination. Volkswagen Tiguan: $30,805 plus $1,475 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.
Which gets better fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4 or the Volkswagen Tiguan?
The Toyota RAV4 is rated 27/35 city/hwy, and the Volkswagen Tiguan is rated 26/34 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.
How many people does each seat?
The Toyota RAV4 seats 5. The Volkswagen Tiguan seats 5.
What are the trade-offs between the two?
Toyota RAV4: Exceptional fuel economy for the class, though interior materials feel more functional than premium. Volkswagen Tiguan: Upmarket interior design and material quality, though infotainment interface has a steep learning curve.
Toyota RAV4 is best for
Toyota RAV4 is the better fit for compact suv buyers who want something proven and easy to resell. Its standout: exceptional fuel economy for the class.
Volkswagen Tiguan is best for
Volkswagen Tiguan is the better fit for compact suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: upmarket interior design and material quality.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Attribute | Toyota RAV4 | Volkswagen Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $31,900 | $30,805 |
| MSRP + destination | $33,350 | $32,280 |
| Fuel economy / range | 27/35 city/hwy | 26/34 city/hwy |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 201 hp |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Body type | Compact SUV | Compact SUV |
| Powertrains | 2.5L 4-Cylinder, Hybrid | 2.0L TSI Turbo, 4Motion AWD, 2.0L Turbo High-Output |