VS

BYD Dolphin Surf vs VW Tiguan comparison

Compare performance (156 HP vs 272 HP), boot space and price (19,700 £ vs 33,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin Surf or VW Tiguan?

BYD Dolphin Surf vs VW Tiguan: Key differences

BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly cheaper
  • substantially more electric range
  • visibly lighter
details

VW Tiguan

4.2 (11 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly more power
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • significantly more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Dolphin Surf

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

BYD Dolphin Surf is clearly cheaper – starting at 19,700 £ , while the VW Tiguan costs 33,600 £ . That’s a price difference of around 13,873 £.

As for electric range, the BYD Dolphin Surf offers substantially more range – reaching up to 322 km, about 196 km more than the VW Tiguan.

Tiguan

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Tiguan offers clearly more power – delivering 272 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 116 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Tiguan is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.9 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 3.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the VW Tiguan delivers significantly more torque with 400 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 180 Nm more.

Dolphin Surf

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: VW Tiguan offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is visibly lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 1,599 kg. The difference is around 305 kg.

Looking at boot space, the VW Tiguan offers significantly more boot space – 652 L compared to 308 L. That’s a difference of about 344 L.

When it comes to payload, the VW Tiguan carries noticeably more – 556 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 212 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW Tiguan is clearly ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £33,600
Tiguan

VW Tiguan

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 130 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 1.4 - 8.4 L/100km
  • Electric Range 118 - 126 km
details

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
The BYD Dolphin and the sportier Dolphin Surf share the same efficient electric bones, but the Surf adds visual muscle, slightly firmer suspension and sharper steering for anyone craving a bit more attitude. Inside they’re twins — clever packaging, roomy rear seats and a useful boot — so the Surf’s …
BYD Dolphin Surf
MG MG4 Urban
VS
The BYD Dolphin Surf and the MG4 Urban are compact electric hatchbacks that target buyers who want a practical, tech-rich EV without blowing the budget. This comparison focuses on range, performance, interior space, and value to help you pick the better fit for daily driving and city life.
BYD Dolphin Surf
VW Tiguan

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BYD Dolphin Surf

The BYD Dolphin Surf is an intriguing model that combines sleek design with modern electric technology, making it an appealing choice for urban commuters seeking sustainability and style. Its dynamic exterior design is complemented by an interior that prioritizes comfort and functionality, reflecting the brand's commitment to innovation. The model also offers impressive handling and a smooth driving experience, embodying the shift towards eco-friendly transportation.

details
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__154--2-_UK05BYD
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__251_UK05BYD
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__205-1
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__195

Reviews BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
Dieter Schönrock
9 Jun 2026, 07:04:54

The Dolphin Surf is especially appealing because of the entry height and the low step-in. The amount of space is very good. It's a pity it has no towing capacity — around 500–600 kg would be great. The Dolphin Surf is better suited for older people than the R5.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

VW Tiguan

The VW Tiguan is a well-rounded compact SUV that delivers a comfortable cabin, composed ride and practical space suited to everyday family life. Its straightforward tech and clever storage make it easy to live with, leaning toward sensible refinement rather than flash.

details
DB2020AU01005_medium
DB2020AU01010_medium
DB2020AU01013_medium
DB2020AU01015_medium
DB2020AU01016_medium
DB2020AU01055_medium

Reviews VW Tiguan

4.2 (11 Reviews)
rate
Jerzy
7 Jun 2026, 15:17:21

It competes on price and cheaper servicing, but well‑equipped examples also offer plenty of comfort.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Peter
21 Feb 2026, 14:53:54

My Tiguan 2.0 TSI is flawless after eight years and still looks great. I really can't complain.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Thomas
21 Nov 2025, 21:33:38

What counts is longevity... and on that front VW doesn't convince.

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin Surf
Renault Twingo
VS
We pit the cheeky BYD Dolphin Surf against the compact Renault Twingo to find out which small car deserves your city-driving crown. The Dolphin Surf brings electric refinement and modern tech to the party, while the Twingo trades on nimble handling and fuss-free simplicity — your choice depends on …
VW Tiguan
VW Touran
VS
Deciding between the VW Tiguan and the VW Touran comes down to whether you prefer SUV style and road presence or MPV practicality for family life. The Tiguan delivers a higher driving position, sharper styling and more versatile on-road performance, while the Touran focuses on flexible seating, …
VW Tiguan
VW Passat
VS
Deciding between the VW Tiguan and the VW Passat comes down to whether you value SUV versatility or traditional sedan refinement: the Tiguan gives a higher driving position, greater cargo flexibility and mild off-road capability, while the Passat delivers a quieter, more aerodynamic ride with roomy …
VW Tiguan
VW Tayron
VS
Comparing the VW Tiguan and the VW Tayron helps buyers choose between the Tiguan’s well-rounded, globally proven compact-SUV package and the Tayron’s China-focused, often roomier take on VW’s MQB platform. While they share mechanical roots, the Tiguan leans toward refined driving manners and broad …
Hyundai Inster
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
The Hyundai Inster and the BYD Dolphin Surf are two fresh contenders in the compact car segment, each taking a different approach to styling, technology and everyday practicality. This comparison will highlight the key differences in comfort, efficiency, driving feel and value so you can pick the …
Nissan X-Trail
VW Tiguan
VS
Choosing between the X-Trail and the Tiguan comes down to priorities: space and practicality versus refinement and driving feel. This quick comparison will help you decide which suits your needs by weighing interior space, tech, comfort, fuel economy and ownership costs.
MG MG4
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
Comparing the MG4 and the BYD Dolphin Surf gives you a clear look at two affordable electric hatchbacks that target practical daily use but take very different approaches to range, interior space and driving character. If you want a compact EV that leans toward sharp handling and a sporty layout, …
VW Taigo
VW Tiguan
VS
Deciding between the Taigo and the Tiguan means choosing between a stylish, city-focused compact crossover and a more spacious, family-oriented SUV. This quick comparison looks at size, practicality, driving feel and running costs to help you pick the Volkswagen that best matches your daily needs.
BYD Dolphin Surf
VW Tiguan

Costs and Consumption
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Price
33,600 - 54,600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
1.4 - 8.4 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
220 - 322 km
Electric Range
118 - 126 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
32 - 190 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
4
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Curb weight
1,599 - 1,879 kg
Trunk capacity
308 L
Trunk capacity
490 - 652 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,720 mm
Width
1,842 - 1,859 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
344 kg
Payload
499 - 556 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Power HP
130 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 10.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Torque
220 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Power kW
96 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B, G
Brand
BYD
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the BYD Dolphin Surf?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.