2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
2 mpg better and 11.7″ longer vs $2,970 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 268 vs 250 hp, 25 vs 23 MPG.
The Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo leads on 2 MPG better, 11.7″ longer. The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on $2,970 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 SEL R-Line Turbo | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $43,085 | $40,115 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,750/yr | $1,900/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,010 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 109.9" | 105.1" |
| Length | 184.4" | 172.7" |
| Width | 73.0" | 74.3" |
| Height | 66.5" | 71.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands starts at $40,115, $2,970 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo at $43,085. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $53/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,970 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo produces 268 hp, 18 more than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands at 250 hp. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 258 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo bigger than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is 11.7″ longer at 184.4″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo has a 4.8″ 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 Ford Bronco Sport 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, Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
The Tiguan–Bronco Sport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tiguan and Bronco Sport compare. The $-2,970 gap adds up to $53/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.0L I4 Turbo engine. The 18 hp difference (268 vs 250) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo saves roughly $146/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $730.
Living With the Tiguan vs the Bronco Sport
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is 11.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands when you want to keep $2,970 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands 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 Ford or any dealership.