Volkswagen Tiguan vs.Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V Comparison Test Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 23, 2009

3:58 min

Compact SUVs are becoming more and more popular but a smaller size doesn�t mean lower expectations. The Honda CR-V EX-L with nav, Toyota RAV4 4x4 limited and Volkswagen Tiguan SEL 4 Motion come nicely equipped and can haul a small family plus gear with ease. We opted for loaded versions of each just to see how the prices and features stack up � all are equipped with all wheel-drive, stability control, leather and heated seats. As similar as these little ute�s are, they�re also very different. The VW Tiguan Ties for second place and has the quietest cabin. It shares the Rabbit�s chassis and 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired to a six-speed automatic. 0-60 in 8.4 seconds 63.9 mph in the slalomThanks to a shift it yourself feature, the VW feels spunky although it isn�t the quickest. In the slalom, the Tiguan�s overly light electric steering feels detached. Still, the VW turns in the strongest handling numbers. However, it�s the most expensive ute here at just over $37,000 0-60 in 10.0 seconds 63.1-mph slalom speed,By comparison, the Honda CR-V is under powered and doesn�t have a shift it yourself feature. It�s the slowest of the three in a straight line but handling is precise and brake feel is excellent. The CR-V�s cargo area is surprisingly large and its two-tier loading works well. The rear seat is comfortable though the leather has rugged quality that feels like vinyl next to the Tiguan�s leather. The Honda�s interior may not wow you with overtly opulent materials but it is logically laid-out and well built. However, road noise is a constant companion. At $29,000, the lowest price in our test, the well-equipped CR-V is very compelling despite the lack of power. The 2008 Toyota RAV4 won our last compact-ute comparison and again comes out on top. Its combination of utility and power are still there. The whole formula just works. The RAV4 has more cargo room than the other two vehicles and is the only SUV of the three that offers a third row of seating. 0-60 in 7.3 secondsPlus the RAV4 is quick. With a 3.5 liter V6, it�s the quickest to 60. Unfortunately, the RAV has a bland personality - From the effort of the steering to the response at the brake pedal, the RAV4 never makes a strong impression. 61.6 mph in the slalom In the slalom, the RAV4 exhibits less body roll than the Tiguan but lacks the CR-V�s playfulness. At just under $34,000 the RAV4�s price is middle of the road too. All three of the SUVs in our test produced the same as-tested fuel economy of 20.7 mpg in mixed driving although the Tiguan recommends premium. All three of these compact SUVs are enjoyable and capable. The Toyota Rav4 has the broadest appeal � think of it as the safe choice. The new VW Tiguan is the most luxurious and the Honda CR-V blends personality with storage space. But ultimately the right choice depends largely on individual sensibilities.