Skoda Kodiaq vs Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line: Full Comparison & Why Kodiaq Makes More Sense

Up until now, the Skoda Kodiaq has been available only as a 7-seater SUV. However, the European carmaker recently introduced the new entry-level Lounge variant, which comes with a two-row configuration, making the SUV a 5-seater. Talking about 5-seater SUVs, the Kodiaq’s direct rival is the Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line, which is another appealing SUV in the premium full-size SUV market. 

We bring to you a head-to-head comparison of the two rivals, and also explain why picking the Skoda SUV might just be the better deal for you overall. Stay till the end, and you might too agree with what we have to say…

Price

The 5-seater version of the Kodiaq is only available with the base-spec Lounge variant priced at Rs 39.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Compared to the Kodiaq, the Tiguan is more expensive by almost Rs 6 lakh. Now let’s take a look at what the two SUVs offer, and if any of the two have a clear advantage over the other or not…

Dimensions

As seen in the table above, the Kodiaq clearly is the larger SUV with more road presence. It is not only longer, but also wider and taller than the Tiguan R-Line. In terms of wheelbase, too, the Kodiaq takes the lead, and the extra wheelbase should lead to more space inside the cabin as well. 

Furthermore, the Kodiaq’s boot space is significantly larger, making it more ideal for your luggage during those long road trips. 

Features

The Tiguan R-line has a slight advantage here, with a few extra features. It gets a larger infotainment, level-2 ADAS, massage seats, and multicolour ambient lighting as well. The Kodiaq, on the other hand, comes with powered driver seats and a better sound system to please the audiophile. 

So while the Tiguan might look slightly better equipped, the difference is not much. In fact, both these SUVs miss out on some big features that some other SUVs that belong to lower segments offer. These include a 360-degree camera, a powered tailgate, and ventilated front seats. Do note that the higher variants of the Kodiaq offer these features, but then that variant comes only in the 7-seater configuration. 

Powertrain 

The good thing is that both the SUVs come with the same 2-litre turbo-petrol engine, which is a popular engine option in the VW-Skoda family and makes a decent 204 PS and 320 Nm.

Both SUVs get a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. 

While the engine specs are the same, we expect the Tiguan R-Line to be the sportier one to drive due to its lighter weight and more compact dimensions. 

Why You Should Pick The Kodiaq Lounge…

By now, you might have already understood that the Kodiaq seems to be the more sensible option when you compare the prices and specs. While both the Skoda Kodiaq Lounge and Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line bring plenty to the table, the Kodiaq clearly edges ahead when you look at the overall package. It not only offers more space, road presence, and practicality, but also undercuts the Tiguan R-Line by nearly Rs 6 lakh, which is a significant saving in this premium SUV segment. 

Yes, the Tiguan does get a few extra features like ADAS and massage seats, but those feel more like luxuries rather than essentials. For buyers prioritising value, versatility, and everyday usability without compromising on performance, the Skoda Kodiaq stands out as the smarter and more sensible choice.

So picking the Kodiaq might not only be a more practical financial decision, but also the bigger car in almost every aspect. 

Would you opt for the Kodiaq Lounge over the Tiguan R-Line? Let us know in the comments section below.