VS

VW Tiguan vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

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

VW Tiguan vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

VW Tiguan

4.1 (8 Reviews)
rate
  • substantially more power
  • substantially quicker 0–100 km/h
  • significantly more trunk space

BYD Dolphin Surf

  • significantly cheaper
  • clearly more electric range
  • markedly lighter

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

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

Tiguan

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.

BYD Dolphin Surf is significantly 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 clearly more range – reaching up to 322 km, about 196 km more than the VW Tiguan.

Dolphin Surf

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 substantially 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 substantially 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 substantially more torque with 400 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 180 Nm more.

Tiguan

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 markedly 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 markedly more – 533 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 189 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW Tiguan is slightly 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 £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 …
VW Tiguan
VW Touran
VS
Pick the Tiguan if you want SUV presence, a higher driving position and sharper styling — it’s the more grown-up, weekend-ready choice with modern tech and a bit of attitude. The Touran, by contrast, is the pragmatic family hero: lower, roomier and endlessly adaptable, with clever seating and …
VW Tiguan
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

VW Tiguan

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
DB2020AU01010_medium
DB2020AU01013_medium
DB2020AU01015_medium
DB2020AU01016_medium
DB2020AU01055_medium

Reviews VW Tiguan

4.1 (8 Reviews)
rate
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.

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

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Frequently compared as well

Volvo XC60
VW Tiguan
VS
Volvo XC60 feels like a Scandinavian living room on wheels — plush, impeccably safe and polished — while the VW Tiguan is the sensible all-rounder: practical, cheaper to run and surprisingly sprightly in town. Choose the XC60 if you want refinement and tech-laden comfort; pick the Tiguan if you …
VW Taigo
VW Tiguan
VS
Unsure whether the VW Taigo or the VW Tiguan is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
VW Tiguan
VW Tayron
VS
Choosing between the VW Tiguan and its China-born cousin, the VW Tayron, is a decision between proven versatility and slightly more presence: the Tiguan is the familiar all-rounder with sharper handling and broader global support, while the Tayron trades a bit of that universality for bolder …
BYD Dolphin Surf
Renault Twingo
VS
The BYD Dolphin Surf and Renault Twingo compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
Fiat Grande Panda
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
The Fiat Grande Panda and BYD Dolphin Surf compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
SEAT Tarraco
VW Tiguan
VS
In the battle of family SUVs, the SEAT Tarraco and VW Tiguan offer compelling choices, each with its unique appeal. The Tarraco boasts a striking design and a slightly more competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Meanwhile, the Tiguan stands out with its …
MG MG4
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
MG MG4 and BYD Dolphin Surf go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
CUPRA Terramar
VW Tiguan
VS
If you crave sharp handling, athletic styling and a near-premium cabin the Cupra Terramar brings the excitement — and the price — delivering compact-SUV thrills with a sporty edge. The VW Tiguan, by contrast, is the sensible choice: spacious, comfortable and cheaper to run, perfect for families who …
VW Tiguan
BYD Dolphin Surf

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

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
5
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,599 - 1,879 kg
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Trunk capacity
490 - 652 L
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
4,539 mm
Length
-
Width
1,842 - 1,859 mm
Width
1,720 mm
Height
1,658 mm
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
1,486 L
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
460 - 533 kg
Payload
344 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
130 - 272 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 10.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
210 - 215 km/h
Max Speed
-
Torque
220 - 400 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
96 - 200 kW
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
VW
Brand
BYD
What drive types are available for the VW Tiguan?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-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.