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Toyota RAV4 vs VW Tiguan comparison

Compare performance (309 HP vs 272 HP), boot space and price (37,700 £ vs 33,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Toyota RAV4 or VW Tiguan?

Toyota RAV4 vs VW Tiguan: Key differences

Toyota RAV4

4.8 (10 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat more power
  • only slightly more efficient
  • very slightly more electric range
  • only slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
details

VW Tiguan

4.1 (9 Reviews)
rate
  • slightly cheaper
  • very slightly lighter
  • markedly 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

RAV4

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

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

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

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

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

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

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

VW Tiguan is slightly cheaper – starting at 33,600 £ , while the Toyota RAV4 costs 37,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 4,127 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Toyota RAV4 uses 1.3 L/100km and is only slightly more efficient than the VW Tiguan with 1.4 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Toyota RAV4 offers very slightly more range – reaching up to 137 km, about 11 km more than the VW Tiguan.

Tiguan

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 offers somewhat more power – delivering 309 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 37 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota RAV4 is only slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.8 s, while the VW Tiguan takes 5.9 s. That’s about 0.1 s quicker.

RAV4

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 terms of curb weight, VW Tiguan is very slightly lighter – 1,599 kg compared to 1,655 kg. The difference is around 56 kg.

Looking at boot space, the VW Tiguan offers markedly more boot space – 652 L compared to 514 L. That’s a difference of about 138 L.

When it comes to payload, the Toyota RAV4 carries barely more – 610 kg compared to 556 kg. That’s a difference of about 54 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota RAV4 comes out clearly ahead 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 £37,700
RAV4

Toyota RAV4

  • Engine Type Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 185 - 309 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
  • Electric Range 133 - 137 km
Toyota RAV4
VW Tiguan

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that pairs everyday practicality with a comfortable, composed ride and generous cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families and active lifestyles. Its strong reputation for reliability, efficient drivetrains, and straightforward technology gives it wide appeal whether you value economy, comfort, or capability.

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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.

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Toyota RAV4
VW Tiguan

Costs and Consumption

Price
37,700 - 54,200 £
Price
33,600 - 54,600 £
Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
1.4 - 8.4 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
133 - 137 km
Electric Range
118 - 126 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
30 - 121 g/km
co2
32 - 190 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,655 - 1,960 kg
Curb weight
1,599 - 1,879 kg
Trunk capacity
446 - 514 L
Trunk capacity
490 - 652 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,880 mm
Width
1,842 - 1,859 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
515 - 610 kg
Payload
499 - 556 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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
185 - 309 HP
Power HP
130 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 10.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
-
Torque
220 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
136 - 227 kW
Power kW
96 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
2,487 cm3
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3

General

Model Year
2026
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B, G
Brand
Toyota
Brand
VW
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.