Volkswagen Tiguan vs Skoda Kodiaq: differences explained

Volkswagen and Skoda recently launched their flagship offerings in the form of the new Tiguan and Kodiaq, respectively. While both SUVs utilise the VW Group’s MQB Evo platform and have the same engine and gearbox configuration, there are lots of key areas where the Tiguan and Kodiaq are poles apart.

Volkswagen Tiguan vs Skoda Kodiaq seating layout and boot space

Tiguan is solely a 5-seater, Kodiaq can accommodate 7 people

Right from the get-go, the new Kodiaq one-ups the Tiguan with a third row of seats, allowing for up to seven occupants thanks to larger dimensions. It is 4,758mm long, 1,864mm wide and 1,679mm tall and has a 111mm longer wheelbase of 2,791mm. Meanwhile, the 5-seat Tiguan is 4,539mm long, 1,859mm wide and 1,656mm tall, with a 2,680mm wheelbase. However, our review of the new Kodiaq found that its third row is a bit tight for adults.

Kodiaq’s boot is much more voluminous

The Kodiaq’s greater dimensions also mean it has much more cargo space – 281 litres with all three rows up and a massive 786 litres with the third row folded down (for a more even comparison with the Tiguan, which has a 652-litre boot). Folding down the second row in the Kodiaq and Tiguan yields capacities of 1,976 and 1,650 litres, respectively.

Volkswagen Tiguan vs Skoda Kodiaq features and safety

Kodiaq comes in two variants, Tiguan only in sporty R-Line trim

Being premium SUVs, the Tiguan and Kodiaq come loaded with features and plush cabins. The Kodiaq can be had in either the Sportline or Laurin & Klement trim. The Sportline is the entry-level variant with blacked-out exterior accents, different 18-inch wheels, a primarily black colour scheme for the cabin, a 3-spoke steering wheel and sports seats. The L&K trades sportiness for luxury, offering massaging and ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera and self-park tech. Meanwhile, the new-gen Tiguan is sold solely in the range-topping R-Line form.

The features common to the new Tiguan and Kodiaq are a huge infotainment touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, a panoramic sunroof, massaging front seats, 3-zone climate control, ambient lighting, premium sound systems, and more.

Tiguan misses out on some major features compared to Kodiaq

While the Kodiaq L&K’s front seats offer ventilation, full electrical adjustment, memory functions and extendable under-thigh support, the Tiguan’s front seats only get electrical lumbar adjustment with manual fore-and-aft sliding and heating functions. As temperatures rise to sweltering heights in the Indian summer, the lack of seat ventilation in the India-spec Tiguan R-Line can be a sore spot for buyers.

The Kodiaq scores some more crucial wins over the Tiguan with features such as dual gloveboxes on the dashboard, more speakers in the sound system (13 versus 8), rear window shades, fully automatic self-parking tech (Tiguan needs manual throttle and brake input), a driver attention and drowsiness monitor, and a 360-degree camera.

Notable Tiguan features not available in Kodiaq

Even though the Tiguan R-Line misses out on some handy goodies, it manages to claw back a few points thanks to the inclusion of Level 2 ADAS, a larger infotainment screen (15-inch versus 13-inch), bigger 19-inch wheels and Dynamic Chassis Control tech.

Volkswagen Tiguan vs Skoda Kodiaq price

Top-spec Kodiaq L&K is Rs 31,000 cheaper than Tiguan R-Line

Since Volkswagen imports the Tiguan R-Line to India via the CBU (completely built unit) route, its Rs 49 lakh price tag surpasses that of the Kodiaq, which is a CKD (completely knocked down) model and, therefore, attracts lower taxes.

The Kodiaq costs Rs 46.89 lakh for the Sportline trim and Rs 48.69 lakh for the range-topping L&K variant, undercutting the Tiguan R-Line by up to Rs 2.11 lakh.

All prices ex-showroom, India

Also see:

Skoda Kodiaq new vs old: larger, more premium and more expensive

VW Tiguan new vs old: Rs 11 lakh pricier, more power and features

New Skoda Kodiaq, VW Tiguan vs rivals: price and spec comparison