Tiguan vs. Qashqai: which is better?
We compare the Tiguan vs. Qashqai to find the winner of these two ultra-popular SUVs for style, safety, and drive quality
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If you’re looking for an SUV then you’re not short on choice, and the Tiguan vs. Qashqai question is one you might run into since these are two top-sellers.
These popular SUVs are fierce rivals and tick plenty of the same boxes. So how exactly do you know which one to pick?
We compare the Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan below, showing the highlights and things you might want to consider.
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Qashqai vs. Tiguan
Our guide will answer:
Which model has the better styling?
Is the Qashqai or Tiguan better to drive?
Does the Tiguan or Qashqai have better tech?
Is the Qashqai or Tiguan more reliable?
What are the Tiguan vs Qashqai dimensions?
Tiguan vs. Qashqai: styling
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Modern SUVs try and be a few things, and the Tiguan and Qashqai models are pretty good examples. They look premium without being too pricey, are sporty but not too rugged, and won’t look out of place in town centres.
They’ve both evolved to a more aggressive look over the years as well, with the Qashqai latest refresh in particular toning up with some sharper edges.
If it matters, the Qashqai was also one of the first crossovers on sale in the UK, so it’s been a trendsetter from the beginning.
However, if you like something handsome and laidback, the VW Tiguan might be the classier pick.
Tiguan vs. Qashqai: what are they like to drive?
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First order of business: engines. The Qashqai offers a choice of 1.3-litre engines, or the 1.5-litre hybrid e-Power. You can also find 1.5-litre diesel models on the used.
In the Tiguan, you’re getting either a 1.5- or 2.0-litre petrol engine, a 1.4-litre plug-in hybrid, or a 2.0-litre diesel. There’s also a high-performance Tiguan R with a 320hp 2.0-litre engine.
Undeniably, the Qashqai feels brilliant on the roads in all iterations. The e-Power if a great pick for ramping fuel efficiency, and you get a healthy 190hp.
It’s not quite as rapid as the Tiguan’s plug-in model, the eHybrid, with its very peppy 245hp, though.
Tiguan vs Qashqai: interior and technology
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If you’re spending a lot of time in your car then you want it to be a nice place to be. Both the Nissan and VW are comfortable, high-quality, and include some useful tech.
The Qashqai comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the centre, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster behind the wheel.
You get built-in Google Maps and the ability to download apps like Spotify from the Play Store. Of course, you can use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay if you want, too.
You won’t be disappointed by the Tiguan either. It starts with an eight-inch infotainment screen that can upgrade to nine-inches if you fancy and also comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Plus, you also get a digital instrument cluster in the Tiguan, this time a 10.25-inch unit.
Tiguan vs. Qashqai: boot space and practicality
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The VW Tiguan has a particularly impressive 520-litre boot. And this can extend to 615 litres if you push the rear seats forward.
You’ll find the Qashqai isn’t far behind, with a 504-litre boot that’s just as capable of fitting a few suitcases or a pushchair.
Both of these cars can extend their boots by dropping the rear seats, so they can be load-luggers if needed. We’re talking a 1,447-litres space in the Qashqai, or a 1,655-litre space in the Tiguan.
You won't be strapped for space as a passenger either - both cars are spacious and comfortable. Even adults can get comfortable in the back seat.
If you need space for seven people in your car, you can opt for the Tiguan Allspace or the Qashqai+2 – though these do have smaller boots because of those extra seats.
Tiguan vs. Qashqai: safety and reliability
Safety is especially important when shopping for a family car as you’re carrying precious cargo.
Euro NCAP safety ratings are a good indicator of how safe a car is, and both the Tiguan and Qashqai score a full five-stars.
Safety kit in the Qashqai includes intelligent emergency braking, collision warning systems, and lane keep assistance.
The Tiguan gets similar kit, such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keep systems, and adaptive cruise control.
They’re reliable picks as well, but long-term reviews for the Qashqai seem to just get the edge over the Tiguan.
Tiguan vs. Qashqai: dimensions
Tiguan
Length: 4,359mm
Width: 1,859mm
Height: 1,660mm
Boot space: 520 litres (1,447 with the rear seats folded)
Qashqai
Length: 4,425mm
Width: 1,835mm
Height: 1,625mm
Boot space: 504 litres (1,655 with the rear seats folded)
Verdict: Tiguan vs. Qashqai: which should you buy?
When it comes to the Qashqai vs. Tiguan, you’ve got a pretty tough decision to make. Both SUVs are reliable, spacious, and easy to drive.
It also helps that they’re very easy on the eye, but do you fancy the timelessly handsome Tiguan or the angular, sportier Qashqai?
Price points differ slightly, too. The Qashqai is typically cheaper to buy as that VW badge adds premium appeal.
To compare both cars in even more detail, take a look at our used Nissan Qashqai and VW Tiguan models.