KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Tiguan offers a tech-focused cabin with a 15-inch infotainment screen, massage seats, dual wireless charging, and Level 2 ADAS
- Kodiaq counters with a luxurious cabin, 13-inch infotainment, ventilated front seats, memory function, and acoustic glass for added comfort
- Both SUVs share the same 2.0l turbo-petrol engine (204 PS, 320 Nm) with AWD and DSG, but Kodiaq offers better fuel efficiency
So, let's say you have a budget of Rs 50 lakh and a taste for something classy but unique, not as common as the Fortuner. Stepping into the world of premium SUVS, you get two newly launched 2025 iterations: Volkswagen Tiguan R Line and the Skoda Kodiaq. Now it boils down to which one you should drive home? Let's decode this in this article, which one makes more sense? Before moving into the details, join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
Design
Though they came from the same family, the Volkswagen Tiguan R Line and the Skoda Kodiaq carry entirely different personalities through their designs. The R Line leans in with more sporty DNA. The front fascia features sleek headlamps with a big Volkswagen logo sitting in the middle. These headlamps are connected by an LED light bar and a horizontal glass strip that flaunts an R badge to show its exclusivity. Just below that, there's a mesh pattern grille with air dampers. Moreover, it rides on 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. At the rear, it offers a large bar light setup with smoky effect, while the rear bumper also gets a mesh pattern with chrome strip.
On the other hand, the Skoda Kodiaq carries a lot of changes from its previous generation. It is now bigger, muscular and offers a signature butterfly with those angular headlamps at the front. While at the rear, Kodiaq now gets a connected taillamp setup. This new generation has grown taller by 61mm. Moreover, it rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Features
When it comes to features, both the Tiguan and the Kodiaq are generously equipped, but they cater to slightly different priorities. The Tiguan R Line offers a clean tech-forward cabin with features including a 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Additionally, Tiguan boasts three-zone climate control, massage front seats, two wireless charging pads, and Level 2 ADAS. For safety, it relies on 9 airbags, ABS with EBD, 4-wheel disc brakes, 21 features of Level 2 ADAS, an electronic parking brake, and much more.
On the other hand, the Skoda Kodiaq goes even a step further with a more luxurious approach. It boasts plenty of features, including a 13-inch infotainment and a 10-inch instrument cluster. Moreover, it gets a wireless charging pad, ventilated front seats, electrically adjustable front seats, along with a memory function. Meanwhile, for safety, it has nine airbags, ABS with EBD, acoustic side and front glass, and an ADAS suite. Lastly, the Tiguan R Line is a 5-seater, while the Kodiaq comes with a 7-seater layout.
Powertrains
Under the hood, both cars boast the same 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, which belts out 204 PS and 320 Nm of torque. This turbo-petrol unit comes paired with a 7-speed DSG. Both the SUVs come with AWD, Skoda with their 4X4, while VW with their 4MOTION AWD system. Moreover, Kodiaq takes a lead with offering 14.86 kmpl of fuel economy.
Pricing
The Volkswagen Tiguan R Line comes as a CBU at a price tag of Rs 49 lakh (ex-showroom) and comes in only one single variant. In contrast, the Skoda Kodiaq is available in two variants, and is a CKD, priced at Rs 46.89 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Sportline trim and Rs 46.69 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Selection Laurin and Klement (L&K) variant.
Read More: India-Built Honda Elevate Bags 5-star Safety Rating At Japan-NCAP: Details Inside
Verdict
Both the Volkswagen Tiguan and Skoda Kodiaq are excellent premium SUVs, but they suit different types of buyers. The Tiguan is ideal for someone looking for a stylish, well-built 5-seater SUV with a clean design and a touch of German luxury, perfect for city use and daily driving. On the other hand, the Kodiaq is better suited for families or anyone who needs more space, comfort, and features, along with the flexibility of seven seats, even if it means spending a bit more. No matter which one you pick, you're getting a high-quality, safe, and premium SUV experience.
