The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with established players like the Volkswagen Tiguan facing rising stars like the new Kia Sportage. Both contenders offer compelling packages, but which one emerges victorious? Let’s delve into a detailed comparison across key aspects to help you decide.
Design:
Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan adopts a conservative yet sophisticated approach. Smooth lines, sharp creases, and a bold grille characterize its exterior. The interior boasts premium materials and a clean, ergonomic layout with a driver-centric focus.
Kia Sportage: The Sportage embraces a bolder, more futuristic design. Its tiger-nose grille, boomerang-shaped taillights, and sculpted body panels exude dynamism. The cabin features a modern, high-tech feel with a curved display and contrasting textures.
Verdict: Design preference is subjective, but the Tiguan might appeal to those seeking a classic look, while the Sportage caters to those who favor a bolder, more contemporary aesthetic.
Space and Practicality:
Volkswagen Tiguan: Offering ample legroom and headroom for passengers in both rows, the Tiguan prioritizes comfort. Cargo space is generous, measuring 615 liters (21.7 cubic feet) with the seats up and 1,755 liters (62 cubic feet) with the seats folded.
Kia Sportage: The Sportage offers slightly less passenger space, particularly in the second row. However, cargo space is impressive, with 591 liters (20.9 cubic feet) behind the seats and 1,780 liters (62.8 cubic feet) with them folded.
Verdict: The Tiguan provides a slight edge in passenger space, while the Sportage offers comparable cargo capacity. For larger families, the Tiguan might be preferable, while the Sportage caters well to individuals or couples with occasional cargo needs.
Features and Technology:
Volkswagen Tiguan: Standard features include LED headlights, an infotainment touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and driver-assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trims offer features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system.
Kia Sportage: The Sportage comes loaded with features like a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera, and a larger infotainment screen compared to the base Tiguan. Driver-assistance features are also standard across trims. Higher trims add ventilated seats, a head-up display, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
Verdict: The Sportage boasts a wider range of standard features across trims, while the Tiguan offers more sophisticated but optional features in higher trims. Choose based on your technology priorities and budget.
Specifications:
| Feature | Volkswagen Tiguan | Kia Sportage |
| Engine Options | 1.5L Turbo Petrol, 2.0L Turbo Petrol | 1.6L Turbo Petrol, 2.0L Turbo Petrol, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 147 – 241 hp | 180 – 261 hp |
| Transmission | 7-speed DSG Automatic | 6-speed Manual, 7-speed DCT Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (combined) | 35 – 39 mpg (Europe), 26 – 30 mpg (UK) | 40 – 50 mpg (Europe), 28 – 33 mpg (UK) (depending on engine) |
Verdict: The Sportage offers a wider range of powertrains, including fuel-efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The Tiguan offers similar fuel economy with its petrol engines but lacks electrified options. Choose based on your performance and eco-friendliness priorities.
Mileage/Range:
Volkswagen Tiguan: Offers a range of 400-500 miles (644-805 km) depending on the engine chosen.
Kia Sportage: Petrol engine variants offer a similar range of 400-500 miles (644-805 km). Hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer electric-only range of up to 35 miles (56 km) and combined ranges exceeding 500 miles (805 km).
Verdict: Both offer comparable ranges with petrol engines. The Sportage’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid options provide significant potential for fuel savings and electric-only driving in urban environments.
New Volkswagen Tiguan vs. New Kia Sportage Price:
| Model | Starting Price (Europe) | Starting Price (UK) |
| VW Tiguan | €28,000 | £25,000 |
| Kia Sportage | €26,000 | £23,500 |
Verdict: The Kia Sportage undercuts the Volkswagen Tiguan in starting price across both markets. However, keep in mind that higher trims and additional features can significantly impact the final price of both vehicles.
Overall Verdict:
Choosing between the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Kia Sportage boils down to your individual priorities:
- Design: Tiguan for classic, Sportage for bold.
- Space: Tiguan for slightly more passenger space, Kia Sportage for cargo capacity.
- Features: Sportage offers more standard features across trims, Tiguan offers more sophisticated optional features.
- Performance: Sportage offers wider engine options and electrified choices, Tiguan offers comparable fuel economy with petrol engines.
- Price: Sportage starts at a lower price.
Ultimately, both SUVs are compelling contenders. Test drive each vehicle and carefully consider your needs and budget to determine which one reigns supreme for you.
