2025 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
3 mpg better vs $1,955 less and 42 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 201 hp, 28 vs 25 MPG.
The CR-V EX-L leads on 3 MPG better. The Tiguan SE leads on $1,955 less, 42 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,500 | $34,545 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 109.9" |
| Length | 184.8" | 184.4" |
| Width | 73.5" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE starts at $34,545, $1,955 less than the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $35/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,955 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 11 more than the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L at 190 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is 0.4″ longer at 184.8″ vs 184.4″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 3.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda CR-V 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: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
- 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CR-V–Tiguan Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CR-V and Tiguan compare. The $-1,955 gap is about $35/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 11 hp difference (201 vs 190) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE adds 42 more lb-ft of torque (221 vs 179), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L saves roughly $180/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $900.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when you want to keep $1,955 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE covers your needs.
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 Honda or Volkswagen or any dealership.