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2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring vs 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL

Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.

2026 Honda CR-V
Sport Touring
$39,850
VS
2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
SEL
$40,275
Fuel Winner
The CR-V Sport Touring gets 11 more MPG combined — saving hundreds in fuel costs yearly.
$425
Price Gap
11 MPG
MPG Diff
20 HP
HP Diff

Full Spec Comparison

CR-V Sport Touring starts at $39,850, $425 less. CR-V Sport Touring leads with 37 MPG. CR-V Sport Touring makes 204 hp (+20).

Spec2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL
Pricing
MSRP$39,850 Save $425$40,275 +$425
Powertrain
Engine2.0L Hybrid 2.0L Turbo
Horsepower204 hp +20 hp184 hp 20 hp less
Torque247 lb-ft 221 lb-ft
TransmissioneCVT 8-Spd AT
DrivetrainAWD AWD
Fuel Economy
City MPG40 +1723 17 less
Hwy MPG34 +430 4 less
Combined MPG37 +1126 11 less
Interior & Tech
Seats5 2 less7 +2
Cargo36.3 cu ft 37.6 cu ft
Screen9.0" 10.25"
Wireless CarPlayYes Yes
Heated SeatsYes Yes
MoonroofYes Panoramic
Dimensions
Curb Weight3,830 lbs 3,990 lbs
Wheelbase106.3" 109.8"
Length184.8" 187.0"
Wheels18" Alloy 19" Alloy
Safety
Safety SuiteHonda Sensing IQ.DRIVE

CR-V Sport Touring or Tiguan SEL?

Both are competitive. CR-V Sport Touring has a lower entry price, CR-V Sport Touring leads on efficiency.Test drive both.

FAQ

What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL?
The CR-V Sport Touring starts at $39,850, which is $425 less than the Tiguan SEL at $40,275. Both prices are manufacturer MSRP before destination, taxes, and dealer fees.
Which gets better gas mileage, the CR-V Sport Touring or Tiguan SEL?
The CR-V Sport Touring achieves 37 combined MPG, 11 MPG more than the other. Over 15,000 miles per year at $3.50/gallon, that could save roughly $600 annually.
Should I buy a 2026 Honda CR-V or Volkswagen Tiguan?
Both are strong choices. The CR-V Sport Touring costs less and gets better fuel economy. The Tiguan SEL delivers Volkswagen's take on the modern suv. Test drive both — the right choice often comes down to which one feels better to you.
Which is more reliable, the Honda CR-V or Volkswagen Tiguan?
Both Honda and Volkswagen have strong reliability records. Honda ranks near the top in long-term dependability studies. The Volkswagen Tiguan is competitive in reliability. Both are safe bets for long-term ownership.
Is the Honda CR-V bigger than the Volkswagen Tiguan?
The CR-V Sport Touring measures 184.8" long with a 106.3" wheelbase and 36.3 cu ft of cargo space. The Tiguan SEL is 187.0" long with a 109.8" wheelbase and 37.6 cu ft of cargo. The Tiguan has a cargo advantage.
What is the cost of insurance for the CR-V Sport Touring vs Tiguan SEL?
Insurance costs vary by driver, location, and coverage level, but both the CR-V Sport Touring and Tiguan SEL fall within a similar insurance bracket as suvs in the $39,850–$40,275 range. The Tiguan SEL may cost slightly more to insure due to its higher MSRP. Get quotes for both before making your decision.
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring?
Beyond the $39,850 MSRP, factor in estimated fuel costs ($1,419/year at $3.50/gal), insurance ($1,200–$2,400/year varies), and maintenance. Honda vehicles are generally affordable to maintain, and the Honda Sensing safety suite can help reduce insurance premiums.

Who Should Choose the CR-V Sport Touring

The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $39,850, it undercuts the Tiguan SEL by $425.

Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 37 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Honda ownership comes with strong reliability and excellent driving dynamics. Compare more: CR-V EX vs CR-V EX-L, CR-V EX vs CR-V Sport-L, CR-V EX vs CR-V Sport Touring.

Who Should Choose the Tiguan SEL

The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL is the better fit for buyers who value what the Volkswagen Tiguan brings to the table.

Volkswagen's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Tiguan SEL deserves serious consideration.

Why the Price Difference Exists

The $425 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Tiguan SEL carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.

Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the CR-V Sport Touring makes 20 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.

What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference

Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.

For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.

When Both Suvs Feel the Same

In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.

The choice between Honda and Volkswagen often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.

Important Notice: All specifications, pricing (MSRP), fuel economy (EPA estimates), and feature information presented on TrimAtlas are compiled from publicly available manufacturer data and are provided for informational and comparison purposes only. This information may not reflect final production specifications, regional variations, available packages, dealer-installed options, or current pricing at your local dealership. Actual transaction prices, fuel economy, and equipment may vary. TrimAtlas is an independent automotive information resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or connected to any vehicle manufacturer, dealer, dealer group, or automotive brand mentioned on this site. All trademarks, model names, and brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used here solely for identification and comparison purposes. TrimAtlas does not sell vehicles, arrange financing, or provide warranties. Always verify all information directly with an authorized dealer before making any purchase decision. This content does not constitute professional advice of any kind — financial, legal, mechanical, or otherwise. Use this information at your own risk. See our full terms and disclaimers.
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