2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE vs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Tiguan SE starts at $36,775, $1,625 less. Same 26 MPG. Tiguan SE makes 184 hp (+3).
| Spec | 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,775 Save $1,625 | $38,400 +$1,625 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 184 hp +3 hp | 181 hp 3 hp less |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 190 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 2 less | 25 +2 |
| Hwy MPG | 30 +1 | 29 1 less |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 7 +2 | 5 2 less |
| Cargo | 37.6 cu ft | 32.2 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,946 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 109.8" | 105.1" |
| Length | 187.0" | 172.7" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | IQ.DRIVE | Co-Pilot360 |
Tiguan SE or Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
Both are competitive. Tiguan SE has a lower entry price. Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Tiguan SE or Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
Should I buy a 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan or Ford Bronco Sport?
Which is more reliable, the Volkswagen Tiguan or Ford Bronco Sport?
Is the Volkswagen Tiguan bigger than the Ford Bronco Sport?
What is the cost of insurance for the Tiguan SE vs Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
Who Should Choose the Tiguan SE
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $36,775, it undercuts the Bronco Sport Outer Banks by $1,625.
Volkswagen ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Tiguan S vs Tiguan SE, Tiguan S vs Tiguan SEL, Tiguan SE vs Tiguan SEL.
Who Should Choose the Bronco Sport Outer Banks
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks is the better fit for buyers who value what the Ford Bronco Sport brings to the table.
Ford's approach to this suv emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the Bronco Sport Outer Banks deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $1,625 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Bronco Sport Outer Banks carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Tiguan SE makes 3 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen 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 Volkswagen and Ford 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.