Compare Volkswagen Tiguan vs BMW X3 – The compact SUV segment is one of the most competitive in the automotive industry, and two of the most popular models are the Volkswagen Tiguan and the BMW X3.
Both SUVs have undergone significant updates for the 2023 model year, and in this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the differences between the 2023 VW Tiguan vs BMW X3.
What is The Main Difference Between Volkswagen Tiguan and BMW X3?
The main difference between the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2023 BMW X3 is their level of luxury and performance.
The BMW X3 is generally considered to be a more luxurious and sporty SUV, while the Volkswagen Tiguan is more practical and affordable.
Here are some specific differences between the two:
Pricing and Which One to Buy
When it comes to pricing, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is the more affordable of the two. The base Tiguan S has a starting price of $26,440, while the base BMW X3 sDrive30i starts at $44,700, making it nearly $18,000 more expensive.
However, it’s important to note that the X3 comes with more standard features, including a larger infotainment screen and advanced safety features.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious SUV, the BMW X3 is the better choice, but if you’re on a tighter budget, the Volkswagen Tiguan is the way to go.
Read also: Volkswagen Tiguan vs BMW X1
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2023 BMW X3 offer two engine choices. The Tiguan comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.
While the X3 sDrive30i comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
For those who want more power, both the Tiguan and the X3 offer an optional engine upgrade. The Tiguan’s available engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque.
The X3, on the other hand, offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque.
When it comes to transmission and performance, both SUVs offer an eight-speed automatic transmission, but the X3 has the upper hand when it comes to acceleration and handling. The X3 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.0 seconds, while the Tiguan takes 9.5 seconds.
Additionally, the X3 offers sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience, making it the better choice for those who prioritize performance.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy is an important consideration for anyone shopping for an SUV, and both the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2023 BMW X3 offer respectable gas mileage.
The Tiguan gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the X3 gets 25 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
In real-world testing, however, the Tiguan tends to get slightly better gas mileage. According to Edmunds, the Tiguan averaged 25 mpg in combined driving, while the X3 averaged 23 mpg.
While the difference in fuel economy may not be significant, it’s worth noting that the Tiguan has a larger fuel tank, which means you can go farther on a single tank of gas.
Read also: Volkswagen Golf vs Ford Focus
Exterior Dimensions
The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2023 BMW X3 have similar exterior dimensions, with the Tiguan being slightly longer and taller than the X3.
The Tiguan measures 185.1 inches in length, 72.4 inches in width, and 66.3 inches in height, while the X3 measures 185.9 inches in length, 74.4 inches in width, and 66.0 inches in height.
The X3 has a slightly longer wheelbase, which means it offers more interior space for passengers.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior space and comfort, the 2023 BMW X3 is the clear winner. The X3 offers more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for both front and rear passengers, making it a more comfortable option for long road trips.
The X3 also has more cargo space than the Tiguan, with up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, compared to the Tiguan’s 65.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
However, the Tiguan still has a comfortable and spacious interior, with plenty of room for passengers and their belongings. The Tiguan also offers a standard third-row seat, which is a rare feature in the compact SUV segment.
While the third-row seat is only suitable for children, it’s a great option for families who occasionally need to transport extra passengers.
Infotainment
Both the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2023 BMW X3 come standard with an infotainment system that includes a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a variety of other features.
However, the X3’s infotainment system is more advanced, with a larger screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a 12-speaker audio system.
The infotainment system is still user-friendly and easy to use, but it’s not as advanced as the X3’s system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Both the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2023 BMW X3 come standard with a variety of advanced safety and driver-assistance features.
The Tiguan includes features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, while the X3 includes these features as well as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic high beams.
The X3 also includes advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and front and rear parking sensors.
While these features are not available on the Tiguan, the Tiguan still offers a comprehensive suite of safety features that will keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
Read also: Volkswagen Tiguan vs Ford Edge
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the BMW X3 bigger than the Volkswagen Tiguan?
While the 2023 BMW X3 and the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan have similar exterior dimensions, the X3 is slightly wider and has a longer wheelbase, which means it offers more interior space for passengers.
The X3 also has more cargo space than the Tiguan, making it a better choice for those who need to carry a lot of cargo.
What is the BMW equivalent to the VW Tiguan?
The BMW equivalent to the Volkswagen Tiguan is the BMW X1. Like the Tiguan, the X1 is a compact SUV that offers plenty of interior space, advanced safety features, and a variety of engine options.
Is Volkswagen Tiguan worth buying?
Yes, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is worth buying for those who want a reliable, comfortable, and affordable compact SUV.
The Tiguan offers plenty of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced safety features, and a spacious interior.
While it may not offer the same level of luxury as the BMW X3, it’s still a great choice for those who prioritize value and practicality.
Is VW Tiguan a luxury?
While the Volkswagen Tiguan is not considered a luxury SUV, it still offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior, advanced safety features, and a variety of engine options.
The Tiguan is a great choice for those who want a reliable and practical SUV without breaking the bank on a luxury brand.
However, if you prioritize a more luxurious driving experience, the BMW X3 may be a better choice for you.
Read also: Volkswagen Taos vs Ford Escape
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs BMW X3 are two great options in the compact SUV segment.
While they both offer a variety of features and capabilities, there are some key differences between the two that should be considered before making a purchase.
If you prioritize a more luxurious driving experience, advanced technology, and a spacious interior, the BMW X3 may be the better choice for you.
However, if you prioritize value, practicality, and a third-row seat, the Volkswagen Tiguan may be the better choice.
