Taos vs Tiguan: a battle of competitors or division of spheres of influence?
In general, they are divided into external and internal dimensions. External dimensions inversely correlate with the ease of maneuvering and parking in large cities, internal – with the comfort of the driver and passengers and the allowable amount of luggage.
The difficulty is that the outside cannot be smaller than the inside, which means that you almost always have to sacrifice something.
| Parameter | Taos | Tiguan |
| Length, mm | 4 417 | 4 510 |
| Width, mm | 1 841 | 1 846 |
| Height, mm | 1 600 (1 602) | 1 675 |
| ground clearance, mm | 177 (175*) | 191…201 |
| luggage capacity, l | 500 (418) | 615 |
The figures in the table are given according to VW, Drom’s measurements in the photo – for specific modifications, so may be different.
Comparing the data, you can see that the dimensions are very similar, but the difference in size is almost always in favor of Tiguan, it is a little, but bigger. Separately about clearance, in Taos it is obviously light, and the senior brother gives hope on a cross-country terrain. The similar story with internal dimensions; the Tig wins with close values.
The trunk of Tiguan is noticeably bigger in volume, due to slightly longer length and less narrowed stern, but it is a trick of measuring methodology, and linear sizes of allowed luggage are comparable.
Volkswagen Tiguan – model description
Volkswagen Tiguan – a representative of the class of compact crossovers. The model has been produced since 2007, updated in 2011. Volkswagen Tiguan combines the advantages of a sharp passenger car, cross-country SUV and roomy family car. The car is produced at Volkswagen factories in Wolfsburg (Germany) and in Kaluga (Russia). There are also joint ventures that produce Tiguan in China and Vietnam for the markets of these countries.
History
The ideological predecessor of the Tiguan may well be called the Volkswagen Golf II in the Country modification. This car was produced in the period from 1990 to 1991 and was a four-wheel drive five-door hatchback, the body of which was placed on the frame. Volkswagen wanted to sell 15 thousand of these Golfs, but potential buyers did not appreciate all the advantages of the car, and production was curtailed before it had even begun. Within two years only 7,735 Volkswagen Golf II Country were sold.
Tiguan prototype made its debut in late 2007 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and the production car was presented the following year in Frankfurt. Working on the appearance of the new crossover, the head designer of the Wolfsburg studio Volkswagen Klaus Bischof constantly kept in mind the image of the Touareg SUV. For this reason, the two cars are as similar as brothers, even despite the difference in size. The small Tiguan has all the family attributes of a powerful SUV: big wheels, high seating position, impressive ground clearance (200 mm), scrappy look, wide rear body pillars.
Sales of the Tiguan began in 2008, and in March 2011 it debuted again, but in an updated form, adjusted to the revised Volkswagen corporate style by that time. Engineers and designers have not made dramatic changes to the successful car, but made it even more like a Touareg. Crossover tweaked lighting, the shape of bumpers and slightly updated the interior.
The main sales markets for the Volkswagen Tiguan are Europe, the United States, Russia, China, Brazil, and Australia. Since August 2008, all Tiguan sold in Russia assembled at the Volkswagen plant in Kaluga. Initially production was in the mode of large-knot assembly, but later has been switched to a full cycle, including stamping, welding and painting the body.
Technical features
The Tiguan is the first crossover whose engine lineup consists only of turbocharged units. They are all four-cylinder and have a displacement of 1.4 to 2.0 liters. Tiguan is made both with front and all-wheel drive. Cars for the Russian market are equipped with manual transmission or the classic “automatic”, while in the European market Tiguan can be ordered with a “robot” DSG.
The compact crossover Volkswagen is produced on the same platform (PQ35) as the “fifth” and “sixth” Golfs. Almost two dozen models of the German concern are built on the same base. Thus, the used in Tiguan units make it similar to Caddy, Touran, Scirocco, Golf Plus, Jetta, Beetle, and also Skoda Yeti, Octavia, Audi A3, Q3 and TT.
Volkswagen Tiguan is available with two types of front bumpers: “urban” (Trend & Fun and Sport & Style configurations) and “off-road” (Track & Field and Track & Style versions). In the first case, the car with a traditionally shaped bumper can enter slopes up to 18°, and in the second case, thanks to the beveled bottom part of the bumper, Tiguan is able to overcome slopes up to 28°. Rearward any of the versions can drive up to 25° slopes.
The car is equipped with Volkswagen’s proprietary 4Motion all-wheel drive system. Most of the engine torque goes to the front axle. At least 10 percent of the torque is always sent to the rear. When the car starts moving or when the driver presses the gas, this value automatically increases.
The Tiguan Track & Field is equipped with an Offroad mode for passing through difficult sections of the road. It is activated by pressing a button on the central tunnel and switches the electronic systems to a mode more suitable for off-road driving.
Interesting facts
The name Tiguan came from the merger of two words “tiger” and “iguana”. The name of the car was chosen in Germany by popular vote. There were enough variants. It was also offered to name the model Rockton, Samun, Nanuk and Namib. By the way, iguanas and tigers are not found in German lands. The homeland of the Tiguan is Wolfsburg, which from German means “City of Wolves”.
The Tiguan produced at the Russian plant in Kaluga has a Russian VIN number.
The Tiguan and Audi Q3 are built on the same platform. But the Audi Q3 is commonly referred to premium cars, so the Q3 is not considered a competitor to the Tiguan.
Advantages and disadvantages
On the background of the nearest classmates, such as Kia Sportage and Chevrolet Captiva, Volkswagen compact crossover stands out with quick and smooth operation of automatic transmission, not bad noise isolation, quality of finishing materials, good ergonomics and rich level of equipment. However, it does not do without drawbacks. Not everyone will like rigorous verified German interior design as well as rather “empty” steering wheel which does not have enough feedback to feel the car in full measure. And of course, the eternal trouble of all VW – the high price of both cars, and their service (and original spare parts together with it) – did not pass Tiguan.
Safety
Even in the basic package Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with ABS, ESP stabilization system and six airbags. In EuroNCAP crash-tests the crossover has earned five “stars” out of five. Moreover, the car has earned the highest marks not only in frontal collision, but also in side collisions. The Tiguan has also got the highest estimation in child-passenger protection. But the pedestrian protection was not very good.
Figures and awards
As of 2012, sales of the Tiguan in Germany takes more than 20% of the total market of all-terrain vehicles, the share of sales throughout Europe is about 12%.
The readers of AutoBild Allrad and OFF ROAD in 2008 twice recognized the Tiguan as the best among compact SUVs.
Powertrains and specifications
If to present a range of accessible power units graphically, the motors of Taos really overlap the bottom part of range of Tiguan, but with a small shift downwards, and here underlining a subordinate position of the newcomer.
| Powertrain. | Taos | Tiguan |
| Front-wheel-drive versions | ||
| Base level | 1.6 liter (110 hp)+MKPP5 | 1,4L (125hp)+MV6 |
| Middle level | 1,4L (150hp)+ACCP8 | 1,4 l (150 hp)+CDG6 |
| All-wheel drive versions | ||
| 1,4 l (150 hp)+ ADHS7 | 1,4 l (150 hp)+CDG6 | |
| Top version | 2,0 l (180 hp)+DSG7 | |
| 2,0 liters (220 hp)+DSG7 |
Even the base Tig has a turbo engine, even if not much more powerful than the Taos atmospheric. But the basic difference in the choice of power units is the absence for Taos of top-end two-liter motors in principle. It is interesting, that the only robot in Taos is 7-speed, apparently, avoiding even possibility of correct comparison with Tiguan.
In dynamic and fuel economy characteristics the picture is similar, Taos approximately corresponds to younger and middle versions of Tiguan.
Recent materials
Regular and non-standard wheel tuning VW Tiguan
What is the difference and what is better: Taos or Karoq?
Characteristics of Taos
Characteristics of the Tiguan
In other technical points and driving sensations cars are also similar, here the main role begins to play the subjective impressions of each individual driver, and the arguments are guaranteed to be controversial in most cases.
Volkswagen Tiguan
Volkswagen Tiguan crossover debuted in 2007, and in 2011 the model was restyled. Cars for the Russian market were produced in Kaluga on a full cycle until 2021.
In Russia, the Tiguan was offered with petrol and diesel turbo engines, and the lineup included versions with both front and all-wheel drive.
In the U.S. market, the model is still sold under the name Volkswagen Tiguan Limited. It is equipped only with a gasoline engine 2.0 TSI (200 hp) and six-speed “automatic”.
This model is officially on sale in Russia. See detailed information about prices and options.
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Interior and equipment
Here the principle is the same, a lot of the same positions, but a lot of those that appear in the Taos only in the top, and the Tiguan in the medium-sized packages. Well and a number of options, for example, memory of electric adjustment of front seats in Taos is absent at all that many owners complain of.
- A multicool with leather trimming and heating;
- heated front electric adjustable seats (rear – optional);
- electric set of side mirrors (folding is optional);
- athermal windows;
- LED headlights (adaptive optional) and taillights;
- upholstery fabric seats;
- a set of electronic systems: stabilization, anti-lock braking, traction control, trailer stabilization, imitation locking diff, keyless access.
As an example of optional equipment, depending on a kitting, it is possible to result 10″ virtual instrument panel, in both cars it is possible to receive only in a top or for additional payment. And so the Taos will also have digital, but 8″ and without functions of individual adjustment.
Some disadvantages and minuses of Taos in comparison with Tiguan (as applied to the maximum complete set):
- no virtual trunk pedal;
- no matrix light;
- no adjustment of backrest tilt of rear seats;
- no power socket in the trunk;
- door handle lighting;
- no memory of electric seat settings;
- no electronic downhill/uphill assist;
- no navigation output on the dashboard;
- no all-around visibility;
- hard plastic of front panel on Taos;
- noticeably less trunk capacity;
- no cooling in the glove compartment.
It seems that the list of lacks is decent, but they concern mainly comfort elements and these disadvantages are not critical for everybody. At the same time Taos is appreciably (by 300 thousand rubles in base) cheaper than Tiguan with comparable sizes, possesses bright, attractive design, is more or less “packed” and, probably the main thing, it though is “city”, but the real Volkswagen crossover that is easy to confuse with more expensive Tiguan.
Also it is possible to complete it independently, in process of presence of finances and mood, with missing options and to bring the comfort level practically to the same Tiguan, and for someone such variant, with distribution of expenses on time and individual selection of functionality will be more preferable.
The confrontation of two crossovers from Volkswagen: Tiguan and Taos
Choosing the right compact crossover isn’t easy. It is not because of the limited choice. On the contrary, the range of models is constantly growing. A clear example is Volkswagen. It would seem that they already have the Tiguan. Successful and well-selling model in the segment of compact SUVs. But the Germans decide to release another car, calling it Taos.
Many people will be interested to know what these models have in common, as well as how they differ. And choose the variant, which, as a result of the comparison will be better.
First acquaintance
Volkswagen Tiguan does not need a special introduction. It is a compact crossover with front and all-wheel drive, which has already changed generations. The second generation was officially introduced in Frankfurt in the fall of 2015. Sales in Europe began in the spring of 2016. And only by mid-December reached Russia. Already in 2020, the model underwent a serious restyling. The exterior and the technical stuffing were improved. But while in Europe they added a new turbo diesel, in Russia everything remained unchanged in terms of the engine range.
Volkswagen Taos is also a compact SUV with front and all-wheel drive. It is half a step below the Tiguan in the manufacturer’s lineup. The novelty was first unveiled in October 2020 during an online presentation. It was the North American version. In March 2021, the Russian version was declassified. In fact, the Taos is a Skoda Karoq, but with a modified exterior and a Volkswagen nameplate.
Exterior and dimensions
The image of Volkswagen Taos turned out solid, balanced, modern and quite aggressive. Many people will definitely like it. Objectively, Volkswagen approached the creation of the image for Taos better than Skoda approached its Karoq.
Volkswagen Tiguan has transformed after the restyling. It has become much more interesting and modern. But again, if to change places of radiator grilles, it will be not so simple to distinguish Taos from Tiguan.
It is possible to tell that both cars look well. It is not a masterpiece of design automobile art, but there are no contradictory decisions. It is necessary to choose what you like more exactly.
But the figures will tell about dimensions that allow making a clear comparison between Tiguan and Taos cars:
| Parameters | Volkswagen Tiguan | Volkswagen Taos |
| Length, mm | 4509 | 4417 |
| Width, mm | 1839 | 1841 |
| Height, mm | 1675 | 1602 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2681 | 2638 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 200 | 184 |
Taos appeared a little bit smaller than its conditional competitor Tiguan. But the comparison doesn’t end here. Let us move further.
Interior and a luggage compartment
Volkswagen Taos is made in minimalistic style that is traced through the interior. It looks nice and well-balanced. In the expensive configurations here you can see a 10-inch multimedia screen and a 10.2-inch virtual dashboard. In the budget versions everything will be much simpler, including the analog scales.
What will really be the difference between the Volkswagen Taos and Tiguan cars is the available space. The Taos saloon is technically a five-seater. But it will be comfortable for only 2 passengers on the back row. Thus there are no claims to chairs and back sofa.
Taos has a trunk with capacity from 418 (for a full drive) up to 500 liters in usual position, and with a lowered back couch it increases almost in 3 times.
The interior of Volkswagen Tiguan looks a little richer. Here also the ergonomics is at a high level. The interior in many ways resembles the older crossover Touareg. The multimedia screen ranges from 6.5 to 9.2 inches. It is also possible to get a 10.25-inch virtual dashboard. But in simple configurations there will be analog instrumentation.
Tiguan has an impressive amount of space on the second row. The rear sofa can shift along the skids, and is also equipped with an adjustable backrest tilt. Up front, everything is also excellent. Five people, including the driver, will sit down without any problems, comfort will be provided for everyone.
The luggage compartment of the Volkswagen Tiguan offers from 615 to 1665 liters of space.
Yes, the Tiguan turned out to be more spacious and roomy than its competitor. The interior in both cases is made well, from quality materials. But it is the Tiguan that is closer to the premium level. And Taos is a little bit simpler. However, it is not deprived of its charm.
Technical characteristics
If we talk about engines and gearboxes, here Volkswagen for its compact crossovers in Russia offers the following equipment options:
| Cars | Engines | Transmissions |
| Volkswagen Taos | 1.6 liter gasoline capacity 110 hp 155 Nm of torque | 5 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION 6 AUTOMATIC GEARBOX |
| 1.4 liter petrol 150 hp 250 Nm torque | 8 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION 7DSG | |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 1.4 liter petrol 125 hp, 200 Nm torque | 6SDSG |
| 1.4 liter petrol 150 hp 250 Nm torque | 6DSG | |
| 2.0 liter petrol, 180 HP, 320 Nm of torque | 7DSG | |
| 2.0 liter petrol, 220 hp, 350 Nm of torque | 7DSG |
Also pay attention to the fact that all variants of Volkswagen Taos, except for 150-horsepower engine with 7DSG box, are available only with front-wheel drive. The top version is the only one with all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Tiguan has somewhat different situation. Front-wheel drive is available only with 6 gearbox and 125 hp motor. The 150 hp motor with 6DSG can be had with front and all-wheel drive at choice, and top versions with 180 and 220 hp engines are all-wheel drive only.
Dynamics and fuel consumption
Let’s begin with Volkswagen Taos. The compact German SUV shows the following figures:
- maximum speed of 180 to 200 km/h;
- To accelerate from a place to 100 km/h will take from 8.8 to 11.4 seconds;
- Fuel consumption in the mixed cycle is from 7.0 to 8.0 liters per 100 kilometers.
Volkswagen Tiguan correctly will be considered a little differently. For starters, the youngest pair of engines available:
- 186-195 km/h top speed;
- acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3-10.5 seconds;
- in the mixed cycle, 6.5-6.8 liters of gasoline is required per 100 km of travel.
Here we still observe relative equality with Taos, but all the same Tiguan has turned out more dynamic and cheerful.
But the 180 and 220 hp engines give an obvious advantage. With them the Volkswagen Tiguan is capable of such:
- acceleration from zero to a hundred in 6.8-8.1 seconds;
- Top speed in the range of 204-217 km / h;
- fuel consumption in the combined cycle of 8.0-8.4 liters per 100 km.
The modest Taos is not able to compete with such indicators. But it is quite capable to impose the struggle to the first motors in Tiguan lineup.
Options and prices
Let’s start with the Volkswagen Tiguan. Prices have really gone up since 2022. In total, the car is available in the Russian Federation in five configurations.
- Respect. The starting price is 2.13 million rubles. For a 150-horsepower engine and DSG you’ll have to pay at least 2.36 million.
- Status. The price ranges from 2.44 to 2.74 million, depending on the engine and gearbox.
- Urban Sport. The price range for this configuration is from 2.67 to 2.87 million.
- Exclisive. For one of the top versions will have to pay not less than 2.76-2.96 million rubles.
- R-Line. The most expensive variant. It costs from 3.012 to 3.35 million rubles from the start.
For comparison, back at the end of 2021 the base version of the Tiguan was asked for 2.06 million rubles. And the R-Line option started at 2.94 million rubles. Now the price tag has already gone over 3 million rubles.
Now let’s move on to the Volkswagen Taos. Let’s take a look at the options and prices for this car in Russia in 2022:
- Respect. The minimum price is 1.817 million rubles. If you want 7DSG and 150-horsepower engine, prepare at least 2.047 million rubles.
- Status. The price range is from 2.027 to 2.197 million rubles.
- Joy! In this version, the German crossover costs 2,125-2,295 million rubles.
- Exclusive. This is the most expensive option. The minimum price is 2.29-2.39 million rubles.
As you can see, Taos is not at all more expensive than Tiguan. On the contrary, the Tiguan will be noticeably more expensive than its conditional competitor in today’s comparison.
Service costs
This is not the end of the VW Tiguan VS VW Taos standoff. There is still a comparison of maintenance costs ahead. This could include a few basic items:
- visits to gas stations;
- service and maintenance;
- replacement of consumables;
- insurance;
- vehicle tax;
- repairs.
This is where the comparison of the VW Tiguan VS VW Taos acquires a certain pattern. The Taos model is initially cheaper. The engines have a smaller volume and less power. All of this leads to lower insurance costs and vehicle tax. Consumables and parts cost about the same. In terms of fuel consumption, there is also a sign of equality.
But all the same, the Tiguan will be a little bit more expensive in service and maintenance. The difference will not be enormous. That is, it is not worth buying Taos for the sake of economy, refusing Tiguan.
What is better to choose
It remains only to answer the main question. It concerns, what automobile is better in the end. Objectively Volkswagen Tiguan is the car of higher class. He has a great recognition, a good reputation in the market due to two generations. The car is roomy, spacious, richly equipped. But the price of the crossover is appropriate.
Volkswagen Taos is the same Skoda Karoq, but in a slightly different shell. Technically they are the same. Legitimately it is inferior to the Tiguan. There is no need to be surprised here. The motors are maximum 150 horsepower, while the Tiguan can be taken with 180 and 220 hp engines.
Having about 2.2-2.5 million rubles, the Taos with a top configuration would be a logical choice. Buying a Tiguan in a basic version is not the best solution. If the budget is 2.7-3 million rubles, then look at the Tiguan.
Alternative Options
In fact, there is no need to choose solely between the Volkswagen Tiguan and Taos. As mentioned earlier, the choice of compact crossovers is now huge.
Among the main competitors of the two cars of the German brand can be included:
There are both more budget-friendly and more expensive compact crossovers. The choice is yours.
Which car do you think is better? Volkswagen Tiguan or Taos? Does the Taos make sense with the Skoda Karoq? How do you like one crossover more than the other?
