2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT
26 more hp vs $1,705 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 201 vs 175 hp, 25 vs 26 MPG.
The Tiguan S leads on 26 more hp. The Equinox LT leads on $1,705 less. 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 Volkswagen Tiguan S | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,305 | $30,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,750/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,801 lbs | 3,583 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 109.9" | 107.5" |
| Length | 184.4" | 183.2" |
| Width | 73.0" | 74.9" |
| Height | 66.5" | 65.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT starts at $30,600, $1,705 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S at $32,305. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $30/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,705 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S produces 201 hp, 26 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S bigger than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S is 1.2″ longer at 184.4″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S has a 2.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Tiguan comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Chevrolet Equinox 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, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
- 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Tiguan vs Equinox: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-1,705 gap is about $30/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S has 26 more hp (201 vs 175), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Tiguan vs Equinox
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT saves roughly $65/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $325.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan S when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment. Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT when you want to keep $1,705 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT 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 Chevrolet or any dealership.