2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S
76 more hp and 90 more lb-ft torque vs $4,355 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 277 vs 201 hp, 23 vs 25 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on 76 more hp, 90 more lb-ft torque. The Tiguan S leads on $4,355 less, 2 MPG better. 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 Hyundai Santa Fe SE | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,100 | $31,745 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 109.9" |
| Length | 190.2" | 184.4" |
| Width | 74.8" | 73.0" |
| Height | 67.7" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S starts at $31,745, $4,355 less than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $77/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when the extra 76 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,355 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 76 more than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S at 201 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 221 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 5.8″ longer at 190.2″ vs 184.4″. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has a 0.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k 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: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
How the Santa Fe and Tiguan Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE ($36,100) and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S ($31,745) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-4,355 gap adds up to $77/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: Santa Fe vs Tiguan
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 76 more hp (277 vs 201). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 90 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 221), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S saves roughly $146/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $730.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE weighs 685 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when the extra 76 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S when you want to keep $4,355 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S 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 Hyundai or Volkswagen or any dealership.