Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: which is better?
Two popular family SUVs battle it out in our Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan review
)
By Tia Harrison-North
Last updated: 13 March 2025
Audi and Volkswagen are familiar brands under the VW Group umbrella, and that makes the Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan battle an interesting one.
Both of these popular SUVs come to achieve the same goals: space, luxury, a comfortable drive and classy styling.
The Audi is pricier, but that doesn’t mean the VW feels a budget option – you’re going to have a good time no matter which one you choose.
It’d be nice to have both, but if that’s not an option, read our Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan review to find your match.
)
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan
Our guide will answer:
Is the Audi Q3 or VW Tiguan better to drive?
Does the Audi Q3 or VW Tiguan have better tech?
Which SUV has the better styling?
Is the Audi Q3 or VW Tiguan more reliable?
What are the Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan dimensions?
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: styling
)
If you’re choosing between the Audi Q3 and VW Tiguan, you probably want a handsome SUV with the right number of sharp lines for a modern family car.
Both models do this well, each showing off a chunky shape with plenty of chrome trim. The Audi probably takes the prize on the aggression front as the massive grille at the front feels more intimidating than the reserved lines on the VW.
Side-by-side, they do look very similar. They have a matching flat roofline and boxy rear-end, so you’ll have to look closely at the details to make your choice.
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: what are they like to drive?
)
Just as they’re similar in looks, the Tiguan and Q3 also feel pretty similar on the road and offer matching engines – including 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre petrol options.
While they share engines and gearboxes, the suspension on the Q3 feels firmer compared to the Tiguan’s more refined and cushioned ride.
The Q3 comes with a 1.5-litre petrol, and 2-litre petrol and diesel engines. The Tiguan offers the same three engines as the Audi but adds the option of a 1.5-litre diesel too.
They share a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with the same 150hp output, but the shared 2.0-litre petrol offers up to 265hp in the Tiguan compared to 245hp in the Q3.
Both models also have hybrid options, including the Q3 TFSI e plug-in hybrid with up to 35 miles of electric range, and the Tiguan eHybrid with up to 30 miles.
You can get both models with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive as well.
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: interior and technology
)
Not to sound like a broken record, but these SUVs are pretty similar inside as well.
With cushy seats, plenty of smart trim and a fair few screens between them, the Q3 and Tiguan definitely sit in the same class.
We’d say the Audi feels slightly more modern and sleek, and you get the MMI infotainment system, which is super easy to use.
On the specifics, the Tiguan can get a massive 15-inch infotainment screen if you opt for the Infotainment Package Plus.
The Q3’s screen is smaller at 10.1-inches, and both get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: boot space and practicality
)
SUVs are practical options for families and those that need extra space, and these picks from Audi and VW offer this with a premium feel.
Boot space is ample for both cars. You’ll get 520 litres of space up to the luggage cover in the Tiguan, then 652 litres if you push the rear seats forward.
There are also hybrid Tiguans on the market, with the plug-in eHybrid version bringing a smaller 490-litre boot to the table.
The Audi Q3 has a slightly bigger 530-litre boot that can extend to 675 litres with the seats moved forward.
There’s a hybrid Q3 as well – the Q3 TFSI e plug-in hybrid – and that gets a smaller 380-litre boot.
With the rear seats folded down, the Tiguan has up to 1,650 litres of boot space compared to the Q3’s 1,525 litres – although the hybrid versions of both have less room.
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: safety and reliability
Safety is always important in a car, but it's understandably an even bigger priority for a family vehicle.
Both the Q3 and Tiguan received a five-star rating on their last Euro NCAP crash test (in 2018 and 2024 respectively), though the Q3s rating has since expired.
Since they’re built on the same platform, it’s safe to presume the latest Q3 would score similarly to the current Tiguan.
Both cars get positive ratings for reliability as well. The Q3 seems to just outdo the Tiguan by a slight margin, though both are praised in the forums and perform well on reliability surveys.
Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: dimensions
Audi Q3
Length: 4,484mm
Width: 1,856mm
Height: 1,585mm
Boot space: 530 litres (up to 1,525 litres with the rear seats folded)
VW Tiguan
Length: 4,539mm
Width: 1,842mm
Height: 1,660mm
Boot space: 520 litres (up to 1,650 litres with the rear seats folded)
Verdict: Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan: which should you buy?
When it comes to the Audi Q3 vs. VW Tiguan, it’s a hard call to make. Both SUVs are sleek and desirable – and practical for everyday life.
If we had to pick, the Tiguan just takes the lead due to its lower price point and the features you get for your money.
With a larger infotainment screen, similar boot size, the same engines and matching hybrid figures – it would only make sense to opt for the Q3 if you absolutely love that Audi styling.
We wouldn’t blame you if you did though. The Q3 is a stunning SUV with lots to offer and does feel a tad more premium – it's just pricier than the Tiguan.
)