2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vs. 2021 Honda CR-V
iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan and 2021 Honda CR-V contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2021 Honda CR-V.
When we compare the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan's and the 2021 Honda CR-V's specifications and ratings, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan has the advantage in the area of typical lower range of pricing for used cars. The 2021 Honda CR-V has the advantage in the areas of fuel efficiency, reliability, resale value, interior volume, overall quality score and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan's and the 2021 Honda CR-V's specifications and ratings, the 2021 Honda CR-V is a better car than the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Pricing: A used 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan ranges from $15,892 to $25,593 while a used 2021 Honda CR-V is priced between $20,996 to $30,538.
Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan loses 47.8 percent of its value and the 2021 Honda CR-V loses 34.5 percent of its value. This means the 2021 Honda CR-V retains 13.2 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Quality Rating: The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.6 out of 10 while the Honda CR-V's quality rating is 8.7 out of 10. This results in the Volkswagen Tiguan being ranked 12 out of 19 Best Small SUVs and the Honda CR-V being ranked 1 out of 19. Out of 66 Best Crossover SUVs, the Volkswagen Tiguan is ranked 30 and the Honda CR-V is ranked 2.
Reliability Rating: iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.5 out of 10. For the Honda CR-V the reliability rating is 8.2 out of 10. This gives the Honda CR-V a slight advantage in reliability compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan’s base engine makes 184 horsepower, and the 2021 Honda CR-V base engine makes 190 horsepower. The Tiguan is rated to deliver an average of 25 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 444 miles. The CR-V is rated to deliver an average of 30 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 476 miles. This gives the 2021 Honda CR-V the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. Both models use regular unleaded.
Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are crossover/compact SUVs, the 2021 Honda CR-V has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, rear head room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan has the advantage in the area of rear shoulder room.
Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the 2021 Honda CR-V has higher safety ratings than the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.45 out of 5 Stars.
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
25245
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
25515
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
23700 - 27890
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
25350
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
25515
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
23700 - 27890
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
20681
Price Range:
15892 - 25593
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
22412
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
18721 - 26231
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
914
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
71045
# Good or Great Deals:
503
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
25931
Price Range:
20996 - 30538
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
22412
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
18721 - 26231
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
1247
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
70979
# Good or Great Deals:
478
Volkswagen Tiguan Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
7.6 / 10
Reliability:
7.5 / 10
Retained Value:
8.0 / 10
Safety:
7.4 / 10
Honda CR-V Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.7 / 10
Reliability:
8.2 / 10
Retained Value:
8.8 / 10
Safety:
9.0 / 10
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
6.4
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
7.3
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
5.6 - 11.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
0.02
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for 2021 Honda CR-V
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
11.6
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
7.3
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
5.6 - 11.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
0.363
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
5.7209271507647195
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
4.0
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
1.4 - 16.9
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
9.906173865945195
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
4.0
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
1.4 - 16.9
Volkswagen Tiguan Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 33Ranking
1 out of / 29Ranking
1 out of / 3Ranking
2 out of / 29Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 3Ranking
4 out of / 10Ranking
4 out of / 6Ranking
5 out of / 6Ranking
6 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 10Ranking
8 out of / 19Ranking
8 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 33Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 18Ranking
12 out of / 19Ranking
12 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 33Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
15 out of / 66Ranking
15 out of / 33Ranking
15 out of / 18Ranking
16 out of / 66Ranking
16 out of / 54Ranking
18 out of / 19Ranking
18 out of / 19Ranking
19 out of / 33Ranking
20 out of / 33Ranking
25 out of / 66Ranking
27 out of / 66Ranking
28 out of / 54Ranking
28 out of / 33Ranking
30 out of / 66Ranking
30 out of / 33Ranking
31 out of / 66Ranking
31 out of / 33Ranking
32 out of / 33Ranking
32 out of / 33Ranking
33 out of / 33Ranking
38 out of / 66Ranking
42 out of / 66Ranking
48 out of / 66Ranking
50 out of / 66Ranking
57 out of / 66Ranking
64 out of / 66Honda CR-V Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 19Ranking
1 out of / 19Ranking
1 out of / 10Ranking
1 out of / 10Ranking
1 out of / 6Ranking
1 out of / 6Ranking
1 out of / 4Ranking
2 out of / 66Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 18Ranking
3 out of / 66Ranking
3 out of / 54Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
3 out of / 7Ranking
4 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 66Ranking
7 out of / 66Ranking
9 out of / 66Ranking
9 out of / 66Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 66Ranking
16 out of / 18Ranking
18 out of / 66Ranking
28 out of / 66Ranking
29 out of / 54Ranking
35 out of / 66Ranking
40 out of / 66Ranking
41 out of / 66Ranking
43 out of / 66Summary Review
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact sport utility vehicle with a reputation for engaging driving dynamics and upscale interior materials. The Tiguan has become VW’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S. and is currently in its second generation, with new models averaging $30,442 and 3-year-old models averaging $22,319.
Summary Review
The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover with mass appeal. It has been one of the best-selling SUVs since its introduction as a 1997 model. The current CR-V benefitted from a redesign for the 2017 model year, with new models costing an average of $31,288 and 3-year-old models averaging $25,089.
Pros and Cons
- New generation is roomier and more fuel efficient
- Optional three-row seating is occasionally useful
- Driving dynamics are engaging
- Acceleration not as strong as some competitors
- Fuel efficiency could be better
- First-generation’s cargo space was limited
Pros and Cons
- Hybrid version available
- Assertive exterior design
- Highly functional and comfortable interior
- Priced higher than some competitors
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is not to every driver’s taste
- Blind-spot monitoring unavailable in base models
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Trim Levels
S, S 4Motion, SE, SE 4Motion, SE R-Line Black, SE R-Line Black 4Motion, SEL, SEL 4Motion, SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion
2021 Honda CR-V Trim Levels
EX, EX-L, LX, SE, Touring
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
4 years / 50000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
4 years / 50000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
4.45 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 4400 rpm
Torque:
221 foot-lbs @ 1600 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.049 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
179 foot-lbs @ 2000 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.057 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
23 / 29 / 25
Range (city/hwy):
352 / 444 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
1.5 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT Automatic)
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
28 / 34 / 30
Range (city/hwy):
392 / 476 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Standard/Optional Features
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Trailer Hitch:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Wifi:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Android Auto:
Available
Apple CarPlay:
Available
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Wifi:
N/A
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Standard
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
Standard
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Standard
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
Available
Lane Departure Warning:
Available
Lane Keeping Assist:
Available
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Available
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
Standard
Lane Keeping Assist:
Standard
Driver Attention Monitoring:
Standard
Pedestrian Detection:
Standard
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.6 inches
Front Leg Room:
40.2 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.1 inches
Rear Leg Room:
36.5 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
55.9 inches
Cargo Space:
12 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
65.7 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
135.9 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
40.1 inches
Front Leg Room:
41.3 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57.9 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.2 inches
Rear Leg Room:
40.4 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
55.6 inches
Cargo Space:
39.2 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
75.8 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
145.1 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3735 lbs
Width:
72.4 inches
Height:
66.3 inches
Length:
185.1 inches
Wheelbase:
109.8 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.9 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3337 lbs
Width:
73 inches
Height:
66.1 inches
Length:
182.1 inches
Wheelbase:
104.8 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.8 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
215/65R17
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.5 inches
Wheel Type:
aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
235/65R17
Exterior Colors
Black
Deep Black Pearl
Blue
Atlantic Blue Metallic
Gray
Platinum Gray Metallic
Silver
Pyrite Silver Metallic
White
Pure White
Red
Not available
Exterior Colors
Black
Crystal Black Pearl
Blue
Not available
Gray
Modern Steel Metallic
Silver
Lunar Silver Metallic
White
Platinum White Pearl
Red
Radiant Red Metallic
Interior Colors
Black
Titan Black
Gray
Storm Gray
Beige
Not available
Interior Colors
Black
Black
Gray
Gray
Beige
Ivory
