2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS vs 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
On paper, the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE wins on 26 more hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $105 price gap, 175 vs 201 hp, 26 vs 25 MPG.
The Tiguan SE 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 RS | 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,000 | $35,105 |
| 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 | 3,629 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 RS and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS starts at $35,000, $105 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE at $35,105. 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 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $105 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS or 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS or 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 26 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS at 175 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is 1.2″ longer at 184.4″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE 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
- 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Equinox–Tiguan Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Equinox and Tiguan compare. The $105 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.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has 26 more hp (201 vs 175), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS saves roughly $65/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $325.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS when you want to keep $105 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox RS covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
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.