@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Dacia Duster vs VW Tiguan – Which car suits you better?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Dacia Duster or VW Tiguan?

Duster @ Dacia / Renault Group Media

Introduction: Battle of the SUVs

When considering the SUV segment, the Dacia Duster and Volkswagen Tiguan are two names that often come up. While they cater to similar market segments, their offerings differ significantly in terms of performance, features, and value. In this article, we will delve into a head-to-head comparison of these two popular SUVs, examining their technical specifications, innovations, and overall driving experience.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine Options and Performance

The Dacia Duster offers a selection of engine types, including LPG, full hybrid, and petrol MHEV options, catering to a range of preferences. With power ratings ranging from 91 to 140 HP and acceleration figures hitting 0-100 km/h in as fast as 9.9 seconds, the Duster presents a robust performance for an entry-level SUV. The maximum speed reaches up to 180 km/h, while its fuel consumption varies from 5 to 8.1 L/100 km.

On the other hand, the VW Tiguan boasts a more diverse array of engine choices, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid configurations, with power outputs soaring up to 272 HP. The acceleration is impressive, with its quickest model achieving 0-100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. It offers a slightly better top speed of 215 km/h, ensuring a thrilling driving experience on the highway.

Duster @ Dacia / Renault Group Media

Transmission and Drive Options

Both the Duster and the Tiguan provide options for both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems. The Dacia Duster comes with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions (including an automated manual), enhancing its appeal for different drivers. The Tiguan, however, is equipped with dual-clutch automatic transmission across all its variants, ensuring smoother gear shifts and improved performance.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Interior and Comfort

Interior space is always a priority for SUV buyers, and both models deliver accordingly. The Dacia Duster features five seats with a trunk capacity ranging from 430 to 517 liters, providing ample space for everyday needs. The Duster's modest yet functional interior includes user-friendly technology, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The VW Tiguan takes a step further with a more upscale interior design and a trunk capacity of up to 652 liters, giving it an edge when it comes to storage space. Comfort features like advanced infotainment systems and premium materials elevate the driving experience. However, this enhanced quality comes at a premium price point compared to the Duster.

Duster @ Dacia / Renault Group Media

Technological Innovations

In the realm of technology, both vehicles offer modern features. The Dacia Duster incorporates an intuitive infotainment system that delivers essential connectivity without overwhelming users. Safety features include standard airbags and stability control, adequate for city driving.

The VW Tiguan, however, is known for its cutting-edge technology. With features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a sophisticated infotainment system, the Tiguan positions itself as a leader in safety and connectivity. Furthermore, its hybrid models include an electric range of over 112 km, enhancing its efficiency for urban commuting.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Pricing and Value for Money

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing between these two SUVs. The Dacia Duster is recognized for providing excellent value for money, with a starting price that appeals to budget-conscious buyers. Its practical features and rugged capability make it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable family SUV.

In contrast, the VW Tiguan comes with a higher price tag, reflecting its premium features, performance, and brand reputation. For buyers willing to invest in a more luxurious and tech-oriented SUV, the Tiguan may be worth the additional cost.

Duster @ Dacia / Renault Group Media

Conclusion: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

In summary, the Dacia Duster and VW Tiguan cater to different segments of the SUV market. The Duster excels with its affordability, practicality, and versatility, making it suitable for those seeking a functional SUV without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the Tiguan thrives on performance, luxury, and advanced technology, making it more appealing for those willing to pay a premium for a richer driving experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Dacia Duster and VW Tiguan will depend on individual priorities, whether that be budget, performance, or technology. Both SUVs offer unique advantages worth considering in today's competitive automotive landscape.

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

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Dacia Duster has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16300 £, while the VW Tiguan costs 32800 £. That’s a price difference of around 16508 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Tiguan manages with 1.40 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Dacia Duster with 4.70 L. The difference is about 3.30 L per 100 km.

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 has a clearly edge – offering 272 HP compared to 158 HP. That’s roughly 114 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Tiguan is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 5.90 s, while the Dacia Duster takes 9.40 s. That’s about 3.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Tiguan performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 242 km/h, while the Dacia Duster tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 62 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Tiguan pulls decisively stronger with 400 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 170 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Dacia Duster is somewhat lighter – 1377 kg compared to 1599 kg. The difference is around 222 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Tiguan offers clearly perceptible more room – 652 L compared to 517 L. That’s a difference of about 135 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Tiguan performs barely noticeable better – up to 1650 L, which is about 41 L more than the Dacia Duster.

When it comes to payload, VW Tiguan somewhat takes the win – 533 kg compared to 453 kg. That’s a difference of about 80 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Tiguan proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Tiguan is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £32,800
Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Tiguan

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

Dacia Duster

5 (1)
rate

The Dacia Duster is a no-nonsense compact SUV that delivers rugged practicality and surprisingly comfortable everyday driving without fuss. It might not win any beauty contests, but its honest design, easy-to-live-with cabin and tough attitude make it a smart pick for buyers who want reliable transport without luxury frills.

details
d220402p @ Dacia / Renault Group Media
Dacia_Duster_2 @ Dacia / Renault Group Media
d220403p @ Dacia / Renault Group Media
d220404p @ Dacia / Renault Group Media

VW Tiguan

3.3 (3)
rate

The VW Tiguan blends sensible family practicality with a dash of German polish, delivering a calm, reassuring ride and a cabin that never feels like an afterthought. For buyers who want an SUV that’s easy to live with yet still nicely dressed, the Tiguan is the grown‑up choice that keeps a cheeky wink in reserve.

details
DB2020AU01005_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2020AU01010_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2020AU01013_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2020AU01015_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2020AU01016_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2020AU01055_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
16300 - 24900 £
Price
32800 - 51900 £
Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 7.5 L
Consumption L/100km
1.4 - 8.4 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
118 - 126 km
Battery Capacity
0.60 kWh
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
107 - 124 g/km
co2
32 - 190 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
50 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 58 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1377 - 1455 kg
Curb weight
1599 - 1890 kg
Trunk capacity
348 - 517 L
Trunk capacity
490 - 652 L
Length
4343 mm
Length
4539 mm
Width
1813 mm
Width
1842 - 1859 mm
Height
1656 - 1659 mm
Height
1656 - 1658 mm
Max trunk capacity
1414 - 1609 L
Max trunk capacity
1486 - 1650 L
Payload
450 - 453 kg
Payload
460 - 533 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, LPG
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automated Manual, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
115 - 158 HP
Power HP
130 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.4 - 11.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 10.6 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
198 - 242 km/h
Torque
190 - 230 Nm
Torque
220 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
84 - 116 kW
Power kW
96 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
1199 - 1789 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, D, E, F, B
Brand
Dacia
Brand
VW

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What drivetrain options does the Dacia Duster have?

The Dacia Duster is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.