T-Roc vs. Tiguan: which Volkswagen SUV is better?
Need some help choosing a winner of Volkswagen T-Roc vs. Tiguan? Read our comparison guide to see which is better for you in 2024
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Volkswagen T-Roc vs. Tiguan is an intense sibling rivalry with a lot at stake. Parents might not be able to pick favourites, but you definitely can.
Comparing these two midsize crossover-SUVs means getting down to the nitty gritty and looking at things like size, trim levels, engines and technology.
Luckily (or maybe unluckily if you’re trying to decide between the two) they both perform well in all areas.
Take a look at our T-Roc vs. Tiguan review to see all the details and find your favourite.
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T-Roc vs. Tiguan
Our guide will answer:
Is the T-Roc or Tiguan better to drive?
Does the T-Roc or Tiguan have better tech?
Which VW SUV has the better styling?
Is the T-Roc or Tiguan more reliable?
What are the T-Roc vs. Tiguan dimensions?
T-Roc vs. Tiguan: styling
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SUVs these days seem to fall into a few styling categories – outdoorsy, sporty or understated. There are a few that tick multiple boxes, but for the most part, you can stick it in one of those categories.
We’d place the T-Roc in the sporty category with its urban vibe, while the Tiguan skirts over to the understated side and is a little more elegant.
The classic shape and chrome details on the Tiguan make it stand out among the Kia Sportages of the world and has more presence than many of its rivals.
If you prefer, the T-Roc looks and feels a bit more like a beefed-up hatchback, with a shape that’s a little more sporty and squat.
If you want a bit more performance, both models come in full ‘R’ spec, giving them more power and flashy body kits.
T-Roc vs. Tiguan: what are they like to drive?
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The T-Roc might be smaller and hatchback-shaped, but it still gives you the smooth ride and lofty view of the road you buy an SUV for.
It also has a healthy lineup of engines that covers everything from a 2.0 TDI to a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol.
We recommend the 150hp 1.5 TSI for daily driving – it'll get you 47.4mpg and feels peppy and smooth.
Being the big sibling, the Tiguan turns up the SUV experience of the T-Roc to the next level – it feels commanding and rides like a dream.
It also has a similarly diverse crop of petrol and diesel engines to pick from, all with enough punch for an SUV of the size.
From the range of 1.5- and 2.0-litre options, we’d recommend the 150hp 1.5-litre unit again It strikes an ideal balance between pokiness and fuel economy.
T-Roc vs. Tiguan: interior and technology
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Being from the same family, the T-Roc and Tiguan have very similar tech. Expect Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, reversing cameras, and reversing sensors.
The T-Roc SE is a good middle ground, with an eight-inch infotainment screen, and a rear central arm rest.
And the Tiguan doesn’t struggle to keep up. All models get CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, plus pick the SE Nav trim for sat-nav and automatic lights and wipers.
Aesthetically, there’s no ugly duckling. Both cars are sleek but practical inside – so you won’t feel as bad about crumbs under child seats as they’re easy to vacuum up.
T-Roc vs. Tiguan: boot space and practicality
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Both SUVs get respectably large boots, but the Tiguan naturally takes first place. Non-PHEV models have up to 652 litres, but earlier models do have less space, so make sure you check the details of any models you’re looking at.
The T-Roc doesn’t do half bad either, though. Its 445-litre boot that can extend to 1,290 litres with the rear seats folded.
The four-wheel-drive T-Roc is smaller at 392 litres.
The interior in both cars is spacious and comfortable, with enough room for even back seat passengers to spread out.
T-Roc vs. Tiguan: Safety and Reliability
Both the T-Roc and Tiguan get a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, but the T-Roc's score has expired.
Tiguan reliability is something to shout about, scoring highly on consumer surveys and getting praise in the forums.
The T-Roc is reliable as well, also getting high scores on consumer surveys and positive reviews, but the Tiguan does seem to have the edge.
Both models benefit from VW’s years or experience and know-how – you’re getting something that’s tried and tested.
T-Roc vs. Tiguan: dimensions
Volkswagen T-Roc
Length: 4,234mm
Width: 1,992mm
Height: 1,573mm
VW T-Roc boot: up to 445 litres (1290 litres with the seats down)
Volkswagen Tiguan
Length: 4,486mm
Width: 1,839mm
Height: 1,632mm
VW Tiguan boot: up to 652 litres (1650 litres with the seats down)
Verdict: T-Roc vs. Tiguan: which should you buy?
When it comes to T-Roc vs. Tiguan, personal preference is likely to separate the two.
The Tiguan is larger with a bigger boot, so might be suited better to families or those that need a bit of extra space.
The T-Roc is more compact but still spacious, and you might be swung by the sportier feel. It’ll hit 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds and is a smooth driver.
Despite that, the Tiguan is still fairly quick on the roads and can hit 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds. It also comes in a plug-in hybrid option with a range of up to 30 miles.
Read more in our VW T-Roc review and Tiguan review to find your favourite.