Subaru Outback vs Volkswagen Tiguan

There are a lot of options on the market when it’s time to buy a new SUV. When looking around, it’s easy to get lost in all the flowery words and nice images of different vehicles. In a new comparison test, Autoblog pitted the all-new 2026 Subaru Outback against the all-new 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan to see which one is better for buyers who need practicality and usability at a reasonable price.  

Meet The VW Tiguan 

The VW Tiguan starts from $32,280, which makes it quite a bit less than the Subaru. The Tiguan does come standard with front-wheel drive and can be optioned with the company’s legendary 4Motion all-wheel drive system for just $1,500, which makes for a base price of $33,780, still less than the Subaru.  

The Tiguan Has Plenty of Power 

Volkswagen gave the Tiguan one of the most reliable and dependable motors that a car can have these days. The EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine features 201 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque when equipped with FWD or 221 lb-ft with AWD. It is paired with a fast and efficient 8-speed automatic transmission that allows the driver full manual control when desired. New for 2026 is the SEL R-Line Turbo that pumps up the performance to the tune of 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Peak torque is available from just 1,900 rpm up to 5,400 rpm.  

The Subaru Outback Is Pricey for What You Get 

The all-new Subaru Outback starts from $36,445 and is available in six different trim levels: Premium, Limited, Touring, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT. The Premium, Limited, and Touring trims are powered by a 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer 4-cylinder that delivers 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the Wilderness and above trims gets you a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Like all Subaru SUVs, the Outback comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, but at an increased base price compared to the Volkswagen.  

The VW Features Excellent Displays 

Where the Tiguan really stands out from the Subaru Outback is in its technology features. The Outback features a somewhat small 12.1-inch infotainment and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The standard infotainment screen size in the Tiguan is 12.9 inches, with a 15-inch touchscreen in the Tiguan SEL R-Line trim. All Tiguan models also have a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.  

Relax With Travel Assist 

Volkswagen offers buyers the advantage of Travel Assist, which utilizes adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist to enable semi-autonomous driving, helping to relieve drivers on longer trips, especially in congested traffic.  

What Autoblog Had to Say in the End 

Autoblog’s final verdict sees the Volkswagen for buyers wanting a luxurious and tech-forward vehicle, saying, “the 2025 Tiguan focuses on a premium, tech-forward interior presentation with a larger available touchscreen, an optional head-up display, and available massage front seats, which you won’t find in the 2026 Outback.” 

Bud Brown Volkswagen Has the Best Prices 

When it’s time for you to upgrade to a new Volkswagen, Bud Brown Volkswagen will help you find the right model at the best price. To learn more about the new Tiguan and other models, stop by and talk to one of their knowledgeable salespeople, and then go for a test drive to understand what makes the Tiguan such a good crossover SUV.  

Why Choose Bud Brown Volkswagen 

The new year is here, and it’s time to treat yourself with a car from Bud Brown Volkswagen. You can find new Volkswagen inventory, including the VW ID.4, the all-new Atlas, as well as the GTI and Tiguan, plus an unmatched collection of used car and SUV inventory at our dealership. Are you interested in leasing or financing your next vehicle? The Finance Department at Bud Brown VW can help you find the right lease offer or finance solution that fits your budget. We cultivate relationships with many banks, lenders, and other financial organizations to providegreat options for purchasing your new vehicle. In addition to the comprehensive factory warranty that comes with your new vehicle, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on a VW. Our knowledgeable sales staff wants to help you find the perfect fit in a new Volkswagen or used car. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Bud Brown family and help you find your new car or used vehicle. Your support and customer service doesn’t stop after you sign your deal. The expert Service Department at Bud Brown Volkswagen is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to keep your vehicle running perfectly. Our Express Service Lane will quickly get you back on the road when you need basic maintenance, like an oil change or tire rotation. Would you like to make your new car all your own with personalized upgrades? Our well-stocked Parts Department has all the authentic Volkswagen accessories you need for the best vehicle customization. Make your car, truck, or SUV uniquely yours to fit perfectly in your lifestyle. We are eager to help you with your car buying and vehicle ownership journey. Visit us today at Bud Brown VW!