2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE vs 2025 Subaru Outback Premium
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a compact SUV or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: 201 vs 182 hp, 25 vs 28 MPG.
The Tiguan SE leads on 45 more lb-ft torque. The Outback Premium leads on $1,485 less, 3 MPG better. 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 Volkswagen Tiguan SE | 2025 Subaru Outback Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,545 | $33,060 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,750/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,801 lbs | 3,661 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 109.9" | 108.1" |
| Length | 184.4" | 191.1" |
| Width | 73.0" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE and 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium starts at $33,060, $1,485 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE at $34,545. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $26/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,485 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE or 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE or 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 19 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium at 182 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE bigger than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is 6.7″ longer at 191.1″ vs 184.4″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 1.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (compact SUV vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a compact SUV against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A compact SUV and a midsize sedan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Tiguan comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Subaru Outback 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, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
The Tiguan–Outback Decision
Comparing a compact SUV to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE ($34,545) and 2025 Subaru Outback Premium ($33,060) answer that question differently. The $-1,485 gap is about $26/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 Volkswagen Tiguan SE runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 19 hp difference (201 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE adds 45 more lb-ft of torque (221 vs 176), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium saves roughly $180/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $900.
Living With the Tiguan vs the Outback
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility. Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium when you want to keep $1,485 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium 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 Volkswagen or Subaru or any dealership.