@ Toyota Motor Corporation
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Toyota RAV4 vs VW Tiguan – Differences & prices compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Toyota RAV4 or VW Tiguan fits your lifestyle better.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Battle of the Compact SUVs: Toyota RAV4 vs. VW Tiguan

In the ever-developing SUV market, the Toyota RAV4 and VW Tiguan have become household names. Both models have gained a reputation for reliability, performance, and innovation. But how do these compact SUVs stack up against each other in 2024? Let’s dive into the details.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Power and Performance

The Toyota RAV4 comes in a variety of engine options, including Full Hybrid and Plugin Hybrid, producing power ranging from 218 HP to 306 HP. This diverse range makes it suitable for both eco-conscious drivers and those who yearn for performance. On the other hand, the VW Tiguan offers a wider variety of engine types, including Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, and Petrol Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV), with power outputs between 130 HP and 272 HP. The RAV4 offers a more environmentally friendly approach with lower emissions and better fuel efficiency, achieving as low as 1 L/100km, while Tiguan manages a commendable 0.4 L/100km for its hybrids.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Acceleration and Speed

With acceleration times from 0-100km/h ranging from 8.4 seconds to a brisk 6 seconds in the 306 HP RAV4, Toyota remains competitive. VW Tiguan matches up well, boasting acceleration times from 10.6 seconds down to an impressive 5.9 seconds. When it comes to maximum speed, the Tiguan can reach up to 242 km/h, overtaking the RAV4's top speed of 180 km/h.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Toyota RAV4's CO2 efficiency class extends to as good as Class B with emissions between 22g/km, thanks largely to its hybrid options. The Tiguan offers similar efficiencies within its Plugin Hybrid models, with emissions starting from 8g/km and maintaining an impressive electric range of up to 113 km. Both brands prioritize efficient driving, but Toyota offers a slight edge in terms of overall environmental benefits.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Design and Space

Both models offer spacious interiors and practical designs. The RAV4 features a trunk capacity of up to 580 liters, providing ample space for luggage and gear. In contrast, the Tiguan offers slightly more space with up to 652 liters of capacity. Both vehicles maintain five doors and comfortably seat five passengers. In terms of dimensions, the RAV4 is a tad longer at 4600 mm compared to the Tiguan’s 4539 mm, though both SUVs are nearly identical in width and height.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

The Verdict

The choice between the Toyota RAV4 and VW Tiguan ultimately depends on personal preference. The RAV4 champions efficiency and eco-friendliness, appealing to hybrid enthusiasts, while providing performance options for speed lovers. The Tiguan stands out with its robust variety of engine options and extraordinary hybrid efficiency. Both SUVs are excellent choices in their own right, making it a decision of performance preference and brand loyalty for potential buyers.

In the dynamic world of SUVs, both the Toyota RAV4 and VW Tiguan continue to lead the way in innovation, design, and efficiency, ensuring that drivers get a blend of power, performance, and sustainability.

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

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

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

VW Tiguan has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 32800 £, while the Toyota RAV4 costs 35100 £. That’s a price difference of around 2349 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Tiguan manages with 0.40 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Toyota RAV4 with 1 L. The difference is about 0.60 L per 100 km.

As for range, the VW Tiguan performs convincingly better – achieving up to 129 km, about 54 km more than the Toyota RAV4.

Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 has a to a small extent edge – offering 306 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 34 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Tiguan is minimal quicker – completing the sprint in 5.90 s, while the Toyota RAV4 takes 6 s. That’s about 0.10 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Tiguan performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 242 km/h, while the Toyota RAV4 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 62 km/h.

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.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Tiguan is barely noticeable lighter – 1599 kg compared to 1745 kg. The difference is around 146 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Tiguan offers a bit more room – 652 L compared to 580 L. That’s a difference of about 72 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Toyota RAV4 performs minimal better – up to 1690 L, which is about 40 L more than the VW Tiguan.

When it comes to payload, Toyota RAV4 somewhat takes the win – 600 kg compared to 533 kg. That’s a difference of about 67 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Tiguan proves to be is largely superior 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

Toyota RAV4

5 (1)
rate

The Toyota RAV4 feels like a sensible friend on the road, marrying dependable practicality with a dash of SUV personality that keeps daily driving from turning dull. Comfortable and easy to live with, it looks tough without shouting and quietly gets the job done — a sensible pick for buyers who want versatility without drama.

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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.

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Toyota RAV4
VW Tiguan
RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation
Tiguan @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
35100 - 55700 £
Price
32800 - 51900 £
Consumption L/100km
1 - 5.6 L
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 8.4 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
75 km
Electric Range
119 - 129 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
22 - 128 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
1745 - 1910 kg
Curb weight
1599 - 1890 kg
Trunk capacity
520 - 580 L
Trunk capacity
490 - 652 L
Length
4600 mm
Length
4539 mm
Width
1855 mm
Width
1842 - 1859 mm
Height
1685 mm
Height
1656 - 1658 mm
Max trunk capacity
1604 - 1690 L
Max trunk capacity
1486 - 1650 L
Payload
390 - 600 kg
Payload
460 - 533 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
218 - 306 HP
Power HP
130 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6 - 8.4 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 10.6 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
198 - 242 km/h
Torque
-
Torque
220 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
160 - 225 kW
Power kW
96 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
2487 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, G, D, E, F
Brand
Toyota
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the Toyota RAV4?

Available configurations include 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.