Powertrain & Performance
- Honda CR‑V: Comes with a 1.5 L turbo‑4 that delivers about 190 hp and 179 lb‑ft torque, achieving ~28/34 mpg city/highway Smooth and efficient, with a CVT that emphasizes comfort.
- VW Tiguan: Packs a 2.0 L turbo‑4 making 184–201 hp and a stronger 221 lb‑ft torque, mated to an 8-speed auto . Slightly thirstier (~23–26 mpg city) but offers more spirited driving and superior towing—up to 1,800 lb in newer trims
Verdict: Choose the CR‑V for efficiency and smooth daily drives; pick the Tiguan for more torque, towing, and a fun-to-drive personality.
Size & Practicality
- CR‑V: Slightly longer (about 4.71 m) and taller than the Tiguan by ~17 cm and ~2.6 cm respectively; offers ~76.5 cu ft cargo and a roomy, comfortable five-seater
- Tiguan: More compact (4.54 m long), but has the option of a third row (seven seats). However, that chews into cargo space (~65–59 cu ft effectively). Second-row space is decent; third row is tight .
Verdict: The CR‑V carries more cargo and is more spacious for five. The Tiguan shines if you need occasional extra seats.
Interior & Technology
- CR‑V: Offers a 7–10 in touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and available Bose audio system
- Tiguan: More high-tech! Standard 8–12.9 in touchscreen, the VW Digital Cockpit Pro (up to 10.25 in digital cluster), wireless charging, ambient lighting, premium Fender audio, and over-the-air updates
Verdict: For a classy, tech-savvy cabin, the Tiguan is ahead; the CR‑V covers essentials well but feels simpler.
Safety & Reliability
- CR‑V: Comes standard with Honda Sensing: collision mitigation, adaptive cruise, lane-keep, road departure mitigation
- Tiguan: Equipped with VW IQ.DRIVE across all trims: adaptive cruise, lane assist, blind‑spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic and optional Park Assist
- Reliability & Depreciation: Honda CR‑V outperforms significantly—~31 % depreciation over 5 years, compared to ~41 % for the Tiguan; Reddit users often cite Honda's superior dependability
Verdict: Both are safe, but the CR‑V is generally more reliable and retains value better.
Value & Cost of Ownership
- CR‑V MSRP: ~$30,100–36,500
- Tiguan MSRP: ~$29,495–39,755
- Running costs: CR‑V cheaper to fuel and maintain; Tiguan often requires more premium fluids and has higher repair costs
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | 2026 Honda CR‑V | VW Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Engine / Power | 1.5 L Turbo 190 hp / 179 lb‑ft torque | 2.0 L Turbo 184‑201 hp / 221 lb‑ft |
| MPG (city/hwy) | ~28 / 34 mpg | ~23–26 / ~29–34 mpg |
| Seating | 5 passengers | 5 standard, optional 7 |
| Cargo Volume | ~76.5 cu ft | ~59–66 cu ft |
| Infotainment Screen | 7–10 in | 8–12.9 in |
| Driver Displays | Digital instrument cluster | VW Digital Cockpit Pro |
| Safety Features | Honda Sensing (standard on most trims) | IQ.DRIVE (standard) |
| Reliability (5‑yr dep) | ~31 % | ~41 % |
| MSRP Range | $30–36 k | $29–40 k |
| Towing Capability | 1,500 lb max | Up to 1,800 lb |
Final Take
- Choose the Honda CR‑V if you want maximum cargo space, strong fuel economy, solid safety tech, lower long-term costs, and top-tier reliability. Great for daily driving and long-term ownership.
- Choose the VW Tiguan if you value a tech-rich interior, sharper handling, available third-row seating, higher torque for towing/load, and distinctive cabin ambiance.
User Sentiment (Reddit Highlights)
Which One’s Right for You?
- Need seats for 6–7 or enjoy a premium cabin? Tiguan.
- Need maximum utility, long-term reliability, and efficiency? CR‑V.
- Want a sporty drive and higher towing? Tiguan edges ahead.
- Want low depreciation and strong resale? CR‑V takes the win.