2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line
$5,505 less vs 26 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $5,505 price gap, 175 vs 201 hp, 26 vs 25 MPG.
The Equinox ACTIV leads on $5,505 less. The Tiguan SEL R-Line leads on 26 more hp. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $40,505 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,607 lbs | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.5" | 109.9" |
| Length | 183.2" | 184.4" |
| Width | 74.9" | 73.0" |
| Height | 65.6" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $5,505 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line at $40,505. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $97/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,505 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line is the stronger pick when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line produces 201 hp, 26 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line is 1.2″ longer at 184.4″ vs 183.2″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line has a 2.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Chevrolet Equinox comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Tiguan offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
How the Equinox and Tiguan Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV ($35,000) and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line ($40,505) solve similar problems in different ways. The $5,505 gap adds up to $97/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Equinox vs Tiguan
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line has 26 more hp (201 vs 175), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV saves roughly $65/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $325.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $5,505 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment. At $97/month more, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Chevrolet or Volkswagen or any dealership.