2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S
$1,145 less vs 26 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,145 price gap, 175 vs 201 hp, 26 vs 25 MPG.
The Equinox LT leads on $1,145 less. The Tiguan S 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 | 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,600 | $31,745 |
| 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 | 25 | 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 | 3,583 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 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT starts at $30,600, $1,145 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S at $31,745. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $20/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,145 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S produces 201 hp, 26 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S is 1.2″ longer at 184.4″ vs 183.2″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S 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
- 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Equinox and Tiguan Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT ($30,600) and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S ($31,745) solve similar problems in different ways. The $1,145 gap is about $20/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Equinox vs Tiguan
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S uses a 2.0L 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
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT 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 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT when you want to keep $1,145 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan S when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment. At $20/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.