2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan: an SUV battle!

2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan: an SUV battle!

First launched in 2007, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan can accommodate a 3rd row of seats, which is very rare in the compact SUV segment. This Volkswagen SUV is appreciated, among other things, for the exhilarating driving experience it provides, its very high level of safety and its formidable versatility.

In this article, we match it to the 2021 Toyota RAV4, which first hit the roads of Quebec in 1994. It is available in six versions, all of them powered by gasoline engines.

Here is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan comparison./complexevw440/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/16092847/Volkswagen-Tiguan-2021-16.jpg

three quarter front view of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan driven on a road by a body of water

Tiguan vs. RAV4: price and powertrain

The Trendline version of the VW Tiguan, the first of four versions which also includes the Comfortline, United and Highline, sells for between $31,865 and $42,265, while the Toyota SUV is offered at a starting price of $30,929 for the LE FWD version, and $44,029 for the Limited version. At the heart of the 2021 Tiguan is a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission for all models. The 2021 RAV4, in turn, is equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

With the exception of the starter Trendline version, every Tiguan version offers the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. When we compare the standard features of the Tiguan and those of the RAV4, it quickly becomes obvious that the Tiguan boasts much more equipment, including a Start/Stop System with regenerative braking and heated windshield spray nozzles. Let’s not forget the option to add a 3rd row of seats, which is very practical for larger families.

front view of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan driven on a road

Connectivity and on-board technologies

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 and 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan both offer cruise control, heated outside mirrors, a 6-speaker sound system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, air conditioning, rearview camera, LED headlights, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, 17-inch wheels and heated front seats, among other features. Their towing capacities are identical: 680 kg (1,500 lbs.).

When we compare the higher-end versions of the Tiguan vs. RAV4, we find that the Tiguan offers more than the 2021 RAV4 for a similar price. These advantages include a multi-link rear suspension, a turbocharged intercooler compressor, park assist system with sensors, a power tailgate with hands-free easy opening and closing, galvanized steel body, remote ignition, power panoramic sunroof over both rows, power-folding heated outside mirrors with memory and reverse tilt functions, adaptive headlights and Nappa leather sport seats.

inside view of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan showing the front row seats and the driving wheel

Tiguan vs RAV4: Cargo capacity

Now, in terms of their cargo capacities, the Toyota RAV4 provides 1,059 liters of space, while the Tiguan offers a little more, with 1,065 liters, when the rear seats are folded down. Its fuel tank is also bigger, and can hold 60 liters, compared to 55 for the RAV4. One of the features that VW Canada greatly appreciates about its models is without a doubt their exceptional quality and the meticulous workmanship, as well as the use of high-quality materials and components. The multimedia system works wonderfully, and everything in the cabin is well thought-out. In short, aboard the Tiguan, you'll enjoy divine comfort and flawless ergonomics.

More spacious than its opponent, the Tiguan offers more leg, head and hip room, which is ideal for your long drives far in Laval, Montreal or Terrebonne.

What's more, with a truly exceptional finish and attention to detail, you'll always travel in comfort, whatever your destination. Unfortunately, only the driver will enjoy its incredible performance and dynamic driving, the signature of Volkswagen products. It’s fair to say that German engineering is a step ahead of other manufacturers in terms of driving pleasure.

rear view of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan with the trunk open while it is being loaded

Conclusions of this 2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Comparison

Named the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick in 2020, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is without a doubt the right SUV for you.

So if you're looking for an SUV as spacious as it is elegant, with remarkable performance and undeniable workmanship, the 2021 VW Tiguan will meet your expectations.

Take a road test at your Volkswagen dealer, Complexe Volkswagen 440, located on Highway 440 in Laval, near Terrebonne and Montreal-North.

three quarter view of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan driven on a road while it is raining
Model Engine Power Torque Powertrain Price
Trendline 4 cyl. turbo 2.0 L 184 HP 221 lb-ft AWD $31 865
Trendline 4MOTION $34 065
Comfortline $37 215
United Edition $39 215
Highline $42 265