Subaru Outback vs. Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan is the cheaper one to own — roughly $2,267 less over five years. The Subaru Outback counters with more cargo room (34.6 vs 26.9 cu ft).
Go with the Volkswagen Tiguan for the better long-term value; consider the Subaru Outback if you prioritize more cargo space.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Subaru Outback vs. Volkswagen Tiguan
| Metric | Subaru Outback | Volkswagen Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| MotiveGrid Score | 86 | 74 |
| Cost of Ownership | 85 | 78 |
| Powertrain | 62 | 52 |
| Driver Assistance | 32 | 49 |
| Livability | 69 | 42 |
| Safety | 100 | 94 |
| 5-Year Cost to Own | $48,470 | $46,203 |
| Depreciation (5-yr) | $15,678 | $15,248 |
| Fuel / Energy (5-yr) | $12,187 | $11,610 |
| Insurance (5-yr) | $10,100 | $9,840 |
| Maintenance (5-yr) | $2,095 | $2,260 |
| Tires (5-yr) | $2,150 | $1,700 |
| Financing (5-yr) | $5,265 | $4,635 |
| Registration (5-yr) | $995 | $910 |
| Starting Price | $34,995 | $30,805 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 201 hp |
| MPG (combined) | 28 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Cargo volume | 34.6 cu ft | 26.9 cu ft |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Towing capacity | 2,700 lbs | — |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Subaru Outback scores higher overall.
Which vehicle is right for you
Volkswagen Tiguan is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $2,267 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
Subaru Outback still wins if your priority is best for families.
Cost of Ownership
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Frequently asked questions
Where these rank
- Subaru Outback ranks #1 of 3 in Safest Midsize SUVs and #1 of 3 in Best Midsize SUV for Families.
- Volkswagen Tiguan ranks #7 of 10 in Most Fuel-Efficient Gas SUVs.
What each one costs at the counter
Both five-year totals above count yearly registration. Neither counts what the state takes on the day you sign — sales tax and the title fee. Those are one-time, they are not the dealer’s to negotiate, and on a car at this price they run to four figures in most states. Work out yours:
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Compare tax, title and license across all 22 states we cover →