Skoda Auto Volkswagen India recently updated their line-ups with the launch of two new-gen SUVs from the VW Group’s global line-up – the new Skoda Kodiaq and the Volkswagen Tiguan. Both SUVs sit in the premium end of the market and are priced within touching distance of each other and will offer an enticing choice to buyers wanting a mid-size European SUV within a Rs 50 lakh budget.
On the surface, the two models are not that similar, with both following their respective design languages, though under the skin, both share a number of components, including the VW Group’s ubiquitous MQB architecture. So, just how similar or different are the two VW Group SUVs? Let's take a look.
Also read: Second-Gen Skoda Kodiaq Launched In India At Rs 46.89 Lakh
As is evident from the images, both the Skoda Kodiaq and VW Tiguan follow their own distinct design languages. Skoda’s SUV follows the brand’s ‘Modern Solid’ design language with crisp body lines and a pseudo split headlight design with high-set fog lamps. The Tiguan, meanwhile, follows VW’s latest design theme with clean lines and softer cuts and creases.
Also Read: 2025 Skoda Kodiaq Review: There's Still A Lot To Love!
| Skoda Kodiaq | Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Length | 4758 mm | 4539 mm |
| Width | 1864 mm | 1859 mm |
| Height | 1679 mm | 1656 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm | 2680 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 155 mm | 176 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1820-1825 kg | 1758 kg |
The Kodiaq has a clear size advantage over the Tiguan, being longer, wider and taller, while also weighing more. The Kodiaq, for its larger size, also offers an additional row of seats – set to come to India with three rows as standard, while the global model is also offered in five-seat form.
The Tiguan, on the other hand, will be available only with five seats. Globally, the SUV does have a seven-seat derivative as well – named the Tayron – though there is no word yet on if that will come to India.
On the powertrain front, there is little to set the two SUVs apart.
Also read: Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Launched In India At Rs 49 Lakh
| Skoda Kodiaq | Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Engine | 2.0 TSI, turbo-petrol | 2.0 TSI, turbo-petrol |
| Power | 201 bhp at 4500-6000 rpm | 201 bhp at 4500-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm at 1500-4400 rpm | 320 Nm at 1500-4400 rpm |
| Gearbox | 7-speed DSG | 7-speed DSG |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel efficiency | 14.86 kmpl | 12.58 kmpl |
Both SUVs use the same 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox (DSG) with all-wheel drive. Power outputs are identical as well, down to the rpms, though interestingly, it's the larger and heavier Skoda that's more fuel efficient on paper.
Focus on the other running gear, and that is where the differences crop up. While the Skoda will be offered with standard springs and dampers, the Tiguan will come with Dynamic Chassis Control with adaptive suspension, which, in theory, should make it feel a lot more planted on the road.
As with the exterior, both SUVs also follow their own distinct interior design layouts. Both, however, do get some shared design elements such as the freestanding central touchscreen and a digital instrument display. Skoda’s dashboard features a twin cockpit-like design with the free-standing 13-inch central touchscreen sitting in the centre. A smaller 10-inch free-standing display sits behind the steering wheel. The highlight, however, is the ‘Smart Dials’ - three rotary dials positioned on the centre console with integrated displays. The outer two dials provide access to the three-zone climate control system, while the centre dial offers the ability to customise and control up to four in-car functions.
Also read: Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Review: Function Takes Form
The VW’s cabin design is a lot simpler with an upright fascia featuring notable use of gloss trim. The VW does one-up the Skoda with a larger 15.1-inch central touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instruments display, though unlike the Skoda, there are no physical controls on the centre console – all the functions are accessed via the touchscreen.
On the features front, the Tiguan seems to be a mix of hits and misses, offering some standout features yet at the same time missing out on some others. Headline features include the previously mentioned DCC system with adaptive dampers, Level 2 ADAS functions, front seats with massage function, three-zone climate control, 9 airbags, a panoramic sunroof, 30 colour selectable ambient lighting, a heads-up display and more. However, the SUV does miss out on some other features, such as power-adjustable front seats, ventilated front seats – you get seat heating though and a powered tailgate.
The Kodiaq, on the other hand, packs in features such as hands-free parking, 360-degree cameras, three-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats with a massage function, a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate with hands-free operation, 9 airbags and more.
Moving to the price, the new Tiguan arrives in India as a CBU and is priced at Rs 49 lakh (ex-showroom) and is offered in a single R-Line variant. The Kodiaq, on the other hand, is locally assembled and offered in Sportline and Selection L&K trim with prices ranging from Rs 46.89 lakh up to Rs 48.69 lakh (ex-showroom).
