When it comes to choosing a reliable, affordable compact SUV for your family, two models consistently rise to the top of every buyer’s list: the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox and the Volkswagen Tiguan. These vehicles represent the gold standard in their segment, offering the perfect blend of practicality, performance, and value that modern families demand.
The compact SUV market has never been more competitive, and both manufacturers have pulled out all the stops to win your business. The Tiguan is VW’s top-selling vehicle, while only the Chevrolet Silverado truck outsells the Equinox, making this comparison a true battle of the titans.
But which one deserves a spot in your driveway? After extensive research and analysis, we’ve uncovered some surprising findings that might completely change your perspective on these two popular SUVs.
Price and Value – Where Your Money Goes Further
Initial Purchase Price Comparison
The Chevrolet Equinox is less expensive with a starting MSRP of $29,995 and the similarly equipped Volkswagen Tiguan starts at $30,920. While this $925 difference might seem minimal, it’s just the beginning of the value story.
For families on a budget, every dollar counts, and the Equinox’s lower entry price provides immediate savings. However, the pricing structure becomes more complex when you factor in trim levels, options, and long-term ownership costs.
Long-Term Value and Depreciation
Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Chevrolet Equinox loses 45.2 percent of its value and the Volkswagen Tiguan loses 41.3 percent of its value. This means the Volkswagen Tiguan retains 3.9 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value.
For buyers planning to trade in or sell their vehicle within five years, the Tiguan’s superior resale value could offset its higher initial purchase price. However, for long-term owners who plan to drive their vehicle for a decade or more, the Equinox’s lower upfront cost becomes increasingly attractive.
Performance and Driving Experience – Power Meets Efficiency
Engine Power and Acceleration
For engine performance, the Chevrolet Equinox’s base engine makes 175 horsepower, and the Volkswagen Tiguan base engine makes 184 horsepower. The Tiguan’s 9-horsepower advantage might seem modest on paper, but it translates to slightly better acceleration and highway merging confidence.
However, power isn’t everything in the real world. Due to its much higher torque, the Chevrolet Equinox does a much better job of transmitting its engine’s horsepower to its wheels than the Volkswagen Tiguan. This superior torque delivery means the Equinox feels more responsive during everyday driving situations, particularly when accelerating from a stop or climbing hills.
H3: Fuel Economy – Every Mile Counts
In today’s economy, fuel efficiency isn’t just an environmental consideration—it’s a financial necessity. The Equinox is rated to deliver an average of 28 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 462 miles. The Tiguan is rated to deliver an average of 26 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 459 miles.
The Equinox’s 2 mpg advantage might seem small, but over the life of the vehicle, this translates to significant savings. For families driving 15,000 miles annually, this difference could save hundreds of dollars per year in fuel costs. The front grille of the Equinox uses electronically controlled shutters to close off airflow and reduce drag when less engine cooling is needed. This helps improve highway fuel economy.
Interior Space and Comfort – Room for Life’s Adventures
Seating Capacity and Configuration
Here’s where the two vehicles diverge significantly in their approach to family transportation. The Volkswagen Tiguan does offer seating for seven, which isn’t available with the Equinox. This third-row capability gives the Tiguan a unique advantage for larger families or those who frequently transport groups.
However, there’s a catch. You’ll pay more for that small third row — unless you want AWD, then the third row isn’t available. This limitation means families in snow-prone regions must choose between all-wheel drive capability and maximum seating capacity.
Interior Comfort and Space
Passengers in the back seat may find themselves a little more cramped in the Chevrolet Equinox than the Volkswagen Tiguan. The Chevrolet Equinox offers just a little more front head- and legroom than the Volkswagen Tiguan, making it a little more comfortable for the driver and front passenger.
The space equation becomes more nuanced when examining specific measurements. The Volkswagen Tiguan has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more rear head room and rear shoulder room. The Chevrolet Equinox has the advantage in the areas of front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, rear leg room, and cargo space.
Cargo Capacity
For families constantly hauling sports equipment, groceries, and vacation luggage, cargo space is crucial. The Chevrolet Equinox has a roomier cargo area for putting your bags or other items than the Volkswagen Tiguan. This advantage becomes particularly important for families who prioritize storage over maximum seating capacity.
Technology and Features – Modern Conveniences
Advanced Technology Integration
Modern families expect their vehicles to seamlessly integrate with their digital lives. The Equinox uses computer-generated active noise cancellation to help remove annoying noise and vibration from the passenger compartment, especially at low frequencies. The Tiguan doesn’t offer active noise cancellation.
This technology might seem like a luxury, but for families spending significant time in their vehicles, the reduced cabin noise creates a more peaceful environment for conversations, phone calls, and entertainment.
Practical Convenience Features
Compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Chevrolet Equinox eliminates the need for separate garage door openers and associated risks of losing, breaking, or having dead batteries with its optional integrated Homelink® universal remote controlled from the overhead console.
These seemingly small features add up to create a more convenient ownership experience, reducing the clutter in your vehicle and simplifying your daily routine.
Safety and Reliability – Protecting What Matters Most
Crash Test Performance
Safety remains the top priority for family vehicle buyers, and the numbers tell a compelling story. When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Chevrolet Equinox has higher safety ratings than the Volkswagen Tiguan, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.65 out of 5 Stars.
This safety advantage isn’t just about test scores—it represents real-world protection for your family during the unexpected moments that matter most.
Long-Term Reliability
iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Chevrolet Equinox is 8.0 out of 10. For the Volkswagen Tiguan the reliability rating is 7.4 out of 10. This gives the Chevrolet Equinox a slight advantage in reliability.
Additionally, the iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Chevrolet Equinox is 8.6 out of 10 while the Volkswagen Tiguan’s quality rating is 8.2 out of 10. These ratings translate to fewer unexpected repair bills and greater peace of mind throughout your ownership experience.
All-Wheel Drive Capabilities – Conquering All Conditions
Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive systems, but with different approaches to tackling challenging conditions. The Volkswagen Tiguan can be upgraded with the 4Motion AWD system. It offers different driving modes, such as Normal, Sport, and Eco. However, 4Motion adds Snow and Off-Road modes, making it ready to handle a variety of situations.
The Tiguan’s additional driving modes provide more granular control over the vehicle’s behavior in different conditions, potentially appealing to drivers who frequently encounter varied terrain or weather conditions.
Which SUV Wins?
After analyzing every aspect of these two compelling compact SUVs, the Chevrolet Equinox is a better car than the Volkswagen Tiguan for most buyers. The Equinox wins in the crucial areas of pricing, fuel economy, safety ratings, reliability, and cargo space.
However, the Tiguan isn’t without merit. Families requiring seven-seat capability or those prioritizing resale value will find compelling reasons to choose the Volkswagen. The Tiguan’s superior horsepower and more sophisticated all-wheel drive system also appeal to driving enthusiasts.
For the majority of compact SUV buyers, the Equinox offers the best combination of value, efficiency, safety, and practicality. Its lower purchase price, better fuel economy, superior safety ratings, and larger cargo area make it the more sensible choice for budget-conscious families.
The decision ultimately depends on your priorities: choose the Equinox for value and practicality, or select the Tiguan for maximum seating and premium features. Either way, you’re getting a capable, well-engineered compact SUV that will serve your family well for years to come.