2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S vs 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation
On paper, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S wins on 26 more hp. The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $355 price gap, 201 vs 175 hp, 25 vs 25 MPG.
The Tiguan S leads on 26 more hp. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 Volkswagen Tiguan S | 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,745 | $32,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,750/yr | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,801 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 109.9" | 107.5" |
| Length | 184.4" | 181.0" |
| Width | 73.0" | 74.5" |
| Height | 66.5" | 65.8" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S starts at $31,745, $355 less than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at $32,100. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $355 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is the stronger pick when the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
Both achieve 25 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S produces 201 hp, 26 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at 175 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S is 3.4″ longer at 184.4″ vs 181.0″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S has a 2.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Tiguan comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The GMC Terrain offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
- 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Tiguan and Terrain Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S ($31,745) and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation ($32,100) solve similar problems in different ways. The $355 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Powertrain: Tiguan vs Terrain
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S 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
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S when you want to keep $355 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation when the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
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 Volkswagen or GMC or any dealership.