KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Tiguan R Line offers superior performance and safety tech.
- GLA 200 emphasizes luxury with adaptive lighting features.
- Tiguan features 2.0L engine, AWD, and ADAS.
- GLA provides connected car tech and premium interiors.
- Tiguan's price undercuts GLA, offering better value.
Volkswagen Tiguan Vs Mercedes GLA 200: The Indian premium compact SUV segment has a new player with the Volkswagen Tiguan R Line launch, priced at Rs. 49 lakh (ex-showroom, pan India). It competes with established luxury contenders like the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200, which starts at Rs. 50.80 lakh (ex-sh). This article compares their performance, features, safety, and overall value to help you decide which SUV suits your needs. Before moving ahead, make sure that you join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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Volkswagen Tiguan: Pricing and Variants
The Volkswagen Tiguan R Line is offered in a single, fully loaded variant with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, priced at Rs. 49 lakh. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200, the base petrol variant of the GLA lineup, starts at Rs. 50.80 lakh, with higher-end variants climbing to Rs. 55.80 lakh. The GLA also offers a diesel option, but for a fair comparison, we focus on the petrol-powered GLA 200.
The Tiguan R Line's lower starting price gives it a slight edge for buyers seeking a feature-packed SUV without stretching their budget. However, the Mercedes badge carries a premium appeal that may justify the extra cost for some.
Performance and Powertrain
| Specifications | Volkswagen Tiguan R Line | Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbo-petrol | 1.3-litre turbo-petrol |
| Power | 204 PS | 163 PS |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed DCT | 7-speed DCT |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 0-100 kmph | 7.1 seconds* | 8.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 229 kmph* | 210 kmph |
The Tiguan R Line's 2.0-litre engine delivers superior power and torque, outpacing the GLA 200's smaller 1.3-litre unit. It accelerates from 0-100 kmph nearly two seconds faster and boasts a higher top speed. The Tiguan's all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging conditions, while the GLA 200 relies on front-wheel drive.
Additionally, the Tiguan R Line features Dynamic Chassis Control, allowing drivers to tweak suspension settings for a sportier or more comfortable ride, and this is something the GLA 200 lacks. For performance enthusiasts, the Tiguan R Line is the clear winner.
Volkswagen Tiguan Vs Mercedes GLA 200: Dimensions
| Dimensions | Volkswagen Tiguan R Line | Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,539 mm | 4,412 mm | +127 mm |
| Width | 1,859 mm | 1,834 mm | +25 mm |
| Height | 1,656 mm | 1,616 mm | +40 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,680 mm | 2,729 mm | -49 mm |
The Tiguan R Line is larger in every dimension except wheelbase, where the GLA 200 has a 49 mm advantage. The Tiguan's extra length, width, and height translate to a more spacious cabin, particularly for headroom and shoulder room. The GLA 200's longer wheelbase, however, offers slightly better legroom, especially for rear passengers.
Volkswagen Tiguan: Features and Comfort
Exterior
- Tiguan R Line: Automatic LED headlights, LED DRLs, LED taillights, 19-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails.
- GLA 200: Adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assist, LED DRLs, adaptive LED taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails.
The GLA 200's adaptive high-beam assist provides smarter lighting in low-visibility conditions, while the Tiguan R Line rides on larger 19-inch alloys for a bolder stance.
Interior
- Tiguan R Line: All-black sports seats with leatherette upholstery, panoramic sunroof, height- and length-adjustable front seats.
- GLA 200: Leatherette seats in Macchiato Beige or Anthracite Black, panoramic sunroof, powered front seats with memory function.
The Tiguan R Lines sporty black cabin appeals to performance-focused buyers, while the GLA 200 offers a more luxurious ambience with dual colour options and memory-equipped seats.
Comfort and Convenience
- Tiguan R Line: Triple-zone auto AC, two wireless phone chargers, 30-colour ambient lighting, drive modes, heated and massaged front seats, paddle shifters, heads-up display.
- GLA 200: Dual-zone auto AC, one wireless phone charger, 64-colour ambient lighting, drive modes, gesture-controlled tailgate, cruise control, digital key, air filter.
The Tiguan R Line stands out with its triple-zone AC, additional wireless charger, and massaged seats, enhancing comfort on long drives. The GLA 200 counters with a gesture-controlled tailgate and digital key for added convenience.
Infotainment
- Tiguan R Line: 15-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital driver display, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 8-speaker audio, steering-mounted controls.
- GLA 200: 10.25-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital driver display, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, steering-mounted controls, connected car tech.
The Tiguan R Line's larger 15-inch touchscreen offers a more immersive interface, while the GLA 200 includes connected car tech for remote vehicle monitoring.
Volkswagen Tiguan Vs Mercedes GLA 200: Safety
- Tiguan R Line: 9 airbags, rearview camera, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX anchors, parking assist, tyre pressure monitoring, Level 2 ADAS.
- GLA 200: 7 airbags, 360-degree camera, front and rear sensors, active brake assist, emergency call system, auto-dimming IRVM, tyre pressure monitoring.
The Tiguan R Line's Level 2 ADAS (including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist) and two additional airbags give it an edge in active safety. The GLA 200's 360-degree camera and additional sensors make parking easier, but it lacks advanced driver assistance systems.
Volkswagen Tiguan Vs Mercedes GLA 200: Which SUV Should You Choose?
The Volkswagen Tiguan R Line and Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 cater to different priorities. If performance, advanced safety, and a feature-rich package are your focus, the Tiguan R Line is the better pick. Its more powerful engine, all-wheel drive, Level 2 ADAS, and lower price make it a compelling value proposition.
On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 appeals to buyers prioritising brand prestige and a refined luxury experience. Its premium cabin, adaptive lighting, and connected tech add a touch of sophistication, though its less powerful engine and higher price may deter performance seekers.
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Verdict
Ultimately, the Tiguan R Line offers more bang for your buck, while the GLA 200 banks on its iconic badge and upscale appeal. Choose based on whether you value performance and features or luxury and brand cachet.
