VW Tiguan vs Audi Q3: Is it worth spending over 20L extra on the Audi?

I am wondering if spending an extra 20-22L for the Q3 is worth it compared to Tiguan.

BHPian Adsc0230 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

The VW Tiguan comes with a 2L TSI Petrol engine – it is a 4WD I suppose.

The Audi Q3 comes with a 2L TFSI engine – this too is an AWD.

Then there is the Skoda Kodiaq 2L Turbo Petrol. Does this too have the same TSI as that of Tiguan or a different one?

• I wonder if there is any difference in these engines?
• Which of these is better for performance driving?
• Which is better and reliable?
• Should one consider one over the other?

Would the different suspension and the AWD/4WD make any difference at all to the overall drive experience (in city as well as on highways) between these cars especially between the Audi Q3 and VW Tiguan?

I am wondering if spending an extra 20-22L for the Q3 is worth it compared to Tiguan. Yes, the Q3 has badge value and offers much better exterior looks and somewhat better interior looks. However, I am questioning purely from a drive perspective in terms of the difference if any.

These are my 3 short-listed cars and any help would be appreciated.

Here’s what BHPian MclarenRulez had to say on the matter:

The engines are identical, even in tuning I believe. I think you’ll have very similar driving experiences – any differences would be down to the weight and they’re not too far from each other there either!

To be honest, nothing works better than multiple long test drives till you find what works for you. I have only driven the Tiguan so I have no comparison but ultimately, this will boil down to your preferences. For instance, many people complain that the Tiguan has a very stiff suspension compared to the Kodiaq but I didn’t feel it was too bad when I drove it.

You definitely are paying for the badge with the Q3 but you’ll recoup some of that extra price down the road when you sell it too.

Here’s what BHPian el_lobo6061 had to say on the matter:

I would pick Audi Q3.

Reason:

1. Current gen Skoda Kodiaq is at end of life. New model is incoming.

2. You would face poor aftersales with both Skoda & VW with their top premium cars. Reason being less sales resulting in less experience with technicians & availability of parts.

Another problem with 2.0 TSi with all 3 models is; its not E20 compatible.

So you will face issue once E20 petrol becomes PAN India from 01 April 2025.

Here’s what BHPian adi.mariner had to say on the matter:

If you have the need for the 7 seats, then go for the Kodiaq. Otherwise the Audi Q3 is a no brainer if your budget permits. The Audi badge on the steering wheel will cheer you up everytime you drive and if you get a Tiguan, the VW badge will remind you that you had a chance to get an Audi but you didn’t. All the best for your search.

Here’s what BHPian Maky had to say on the matter:

• All have Identical engines gearboxes but are all tuned differently. Similarly the A4, Octavia and Superb have the same engine and gearbox(iirc) combination but the A4 feels much smoother of an experience.
• Performance driving, I imagine the lightest vehicle will be the most spirited of the three you have listed, that being said I wouldn’t really much in the handling department as they are all heavy fat cars with a high center of gravity.
• Reliability wise the Tiguan and Kodiaq should be equals. Perhaps someone else can comment on the Q3.
• You will get only badge value on the Audi Q3 over the very VFM Tiguan and Kodiaq. If my budget was between the Q3 and others I would pick the Kodiaq.

Oh and the proper New Generation Tiguan and Kodiaq are both around the corner. Unless any urgency, I would suggest you wait another two quarters for the same.

Here’s what BHPian Hayek had to say on the matter:

Think the choice between the Q3, Tiguan and the Kodiaq depends on your application unless you are obsessed with badges. They use the same platform – viz the same engine, gearbox and several other parts.

If you are entirely self driven and do not need rear seat space, go for the Q3 – as a smaller and lighter car, it will be more nimble than the Tiguan. If you are often chauffeur driven or have family who will need second row space, the Kodiaq is the pick – the Tiguan Allspace which I have (identical to the Kodiaq) has more rear seat space than the Q5, much less the Q3. And if you want a car that is almost identical to the Q3 for 30% less money, take the Tiguan. Interiors are not as nice but it gives you “more car per car” than the Q3 for a lot less.

I don’t know about service in Bangalore but in Bombay, both VW Downtown and VW Mumbai North provide good service

Here’s what BHPian 84.monsoon had to say on the matter:

These three cars occupy three different segments in terms of interior space and seating. The Q3 is a compact SUV, whereas the Tiguan is a mid size SUV. The Tiguan has interior room which is closer to aq Q5 than to a Q3. On a similar note, the Kodiaq being a seven seater, 3 row SUV, is closer in interior space to a Q7 rather than a Q5. All the three engine and transmission may be identical, however in terms of size and weight, these three cars are quite different and therefore likely to drive very differently.

Do you take long test drives of each before deciding, because you seem to put a lot of emphasis on power and drive experience.

Keyword: VW Tiguan vs Audi Q3: Is it worth spending over 20L extra on the Audi?