@ Renault Group Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Renault Austral vs VW Tiguan – Differences & prices compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Renault Austral or VW Tiguan fits your lifestyle better.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Introduction

In the competitive compact SUV market, the Renault Austral and Volkswagen Tiguan stand out as two reputable choices for consumers looking for style, performance, and advanced technology. This article will compare these two models, highlighting their technical aspects, innovations, and performance metrics to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Design and Dimensions

The Renault Austral measures 4510 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and stands at a height of 1618 mm, giving it a robust and sporty stance. On the other hand, the VW Tiguan is slightly longer at 4539 mm, wider at 1842 mm, and taller at 1658 mm. Both SUVs feature five doors and generous trunk capacities, with the Austral offering 500 liters and the Tiguan leading slightly with 652 liters of cargo space.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Powertrain Options

The Renault Austral offers two main engine configurations: a petrol mild-hybrid engine rated at 158 HP and a full hybrid option producing 200 HP. Both engines deliver an impressive torque of 270 Nm, with fuel consumption rated at 6.1 L/100 km and 4.7 L/100 km for the petrol and hybrid models, respectively.

In contrast, the Volkswagen Tiguan features a broader range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants. The power output spans from 130 HP to 272 HP, catering to a diverse group of drivers. The Tiguan's diesel engines deliver excellent fuel efficiency, with some variants achieving as low as 5.3 L/100 km. The integrated battery capacity in the plug-in hybrids allows for an electric range of up to 113 km, further enhancing its versatility.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Transmission and Performance

The Renault Austral is equipped with an automatic transmission, either a CVT or traditional automatic gearbox, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. The model can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.7 seconds for the mild-hybrid and an impressive 8.4 seconds for the full hybrid version, with a top speed of 174 km/h.

The Tiguan’s advanced dual-clutch automatic transmission allows for quick gear changes, resulting in exhilarating performance. The acceleration times range from 5.9 to 10.6 seconds depending on the engine option, with top speeds ranging from 198 km/h to 242 km/h. This showcases the Tiguan's athletic capabilities across its engine lineup.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Ride Quality and Handling

The Renault Austral's front-wheel-drive configuration emphasizes comfort and stability on the road, while its lightweight curb weight of 1539 kg contributes to agile handling. The driving experience is further enhanced by Renault's commitment to user-friendly technology and driver assistance features.

On the other hand, the VW Tiguan offers a front-wheel or all-wheel-drive option, adding to its appeal for various driving conditions. It weighs between 1598 kg to 1890 kg, depending on the variant, and showcases a well-tuned suspension system for a balanced ride quality. The Tiguan's handling is precise, making it a joy to drive in both urban and highway environments.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Innovative Features and Technology

The Renault Austral is designed with user-centric technology, offering an intuitive infotainment system that integrates seamlessly with smartphones. Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking are standard across the range.

Similarly, the Volkswagen Tiguan is renowned for its cutting-edge technology and safety features. The cabin is equipped with a digital cockpit and an advanced infotainment system that supports connectivity and navigation. Its comprehensive safety suite includes advanced driving assistance systems that help ensure the well-being of all occupants.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion

Both the Renault Austral and VW Tiguan excel in different areas, appealing to a wide audience of compact SUV enthusiasts. The Austral stands out with its strong hybrid efficiency and engaging driving experience, while the Tiguan leads in performance versatility and advanced technological offerings. Ultimately, choosing between these two exceptional vehicles comes down to personal preference and specific needs in the dynamic SUV segment.

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

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Renault Austral has a a bit advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29700 £, while the VW Tiguan costs 32800 £. That’s a price difference of around 3043 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Tiguan manages with 0.40 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Renault Austral with 4.80 L. The difference is about 4.40 L per 100 km.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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 evident edge – offering 272 HP compared to 200 HP. That’s roughly 72 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Tiguan is convincingly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.90 s, while the Renault Austral takes 8.40 s. That’s about 2.50 s faster.

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

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Tiguan pulls clearly perceptible stronger with 400 Nm compared to 270 Nm. That’s about 130 Nm difference.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

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, Renault Austral is minimal lighter – 1539 kg compared to 1599 kg. The difference is around 60 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Tiguan offers somewhat more room – 652 L compared to 555 L. That’s a difference of about 97 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault Austral performs barely noticeable better – up to 1761 L, which is about 111 L more than the VW Tiguan.

When it comes to payload, VW Tiguan a bit takes the win – 533 kg compared to 477 kg. That’s a difference of about 56 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Tiguan proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects 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 : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 130 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.4 - 8.4 L
  • Electric Range : 119 - 129 km

Renault Austral

5 (2)
rate

The Renault Austral dresses the family SUV in elegant modern looks and a surprisingly grown-up cabin that feels thoughtful and livable. It balances comfort and clever technology with a relaxed road presence—an appealing choice for buyers who want style and everyday sense without fuss.

details

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
Renault Austral
VW Tiguan
Austral @ Renault Group Media
Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
29700 - 37800 £
Price
32800 - 51900 £
Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 6.5 L
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 8.4 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
119 - 129 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
109 - 148 g/km
co2
8 - 190 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 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
1539 - 1613 kg
Curb weight
1599 - 1890 kg
Trunk capacity
527 - 555 L
Trunk capacity
490 - 652 L
Length
4533 mm
Length
4539 mm
Width
1825 mm
Width
1842 - 1859 mm
Height
1645 mm
Height
1656 - 1658 mm
Max trunk capacity
1736 - 1761 L
Max trunk capacity
1486 - 1650 L
Payload
464 - 477 kg
Payload
460 - 533 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
158 - 200 HP
Power HP
130 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.4 - 9.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 10.6 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
198 - 242 km/h
Torque
270 Nm
Torque
220 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
116 - 147 kW
Power kW
96 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
1199 - 1332 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, G, D, E, F
Brand
Renault
Brand
VW
What drivetrain options does the Renault Austral have?

Available configurations include Front-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.