2026 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
4 mpg better vs $1,795 less and 42 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 201 hp, 29 vs 25 MPG.
The CR-V EX-L leads on 4 MPG better. The Tiguan SE leads on $1,795 less, 42 more lb-ft torque. 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 | 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $35,105 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 109.9" |
| Length | 184.8" | 184.4" |
| Width | 73.5" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE starts at $35,105, $1,795 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $32/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,795 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 11 more than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L at 190 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is 0.4″ longer at 184.8″ vs 184.4″. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 3.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda CR-V 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: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
CR-V vs Tiguan: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-1,795 gap is about $32/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 11 hp difference (201 vs 190) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE adds 42 more lb-ft of torque (221 vs 179), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CR-V vs Tiguan
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when you want to keep $1,795 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE 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 Honda or Volkswagen or any dealership.