Hornet vs Tiguan
Few matchups in the compact suv class come up as often as the Hornet against the Tiguan. Close matchups are the hardest to call, and the Hornet versus the Tiguan is one of them.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Hornet wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.3
- Engine & Performance0.8
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Hornet has 67 hp more power
On total system output, the Hornet posts 268 hp against 201 hp for the Tiguan, a gap big enough to feel in everyday use. The Hornet’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The Hornet has 74 lb-ft more torque
This is one of the widest gaps in the whole comparison: 295 lb-ft for the Hornet versus 221 lb-ft for the Tiguan. The Hornet’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Hornet leads
Here the Hornet opens up one of its biggest leads in the comparison. The Hornet brings 67 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. So if engine & performance tops your list, lean toward the Hornet.
Total system output
Hornet: 268 hp Tiguan: 201 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Torque
Hornet: 295 lb-ft Tiguan: 221 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Call the space & practicality round a draw. On space & practicality alone, you can’t go far wrong with either.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Swap one for the other and you’d lose nothing on off-road & towing. Treat off-road & towing as common ground and look elsewhere for the deciding factor.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Hornet | Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 268 hp (winner) | 201 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD (4Motion AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Hornet | Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 24 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 21 mpg Thirstiest in the city | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 29 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Hornet | Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Hornet | Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 2,000 lb | N/A (not specified) |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Hornet | Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | N/A (not specified) |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Hornet if…
- you want more power (268 hp vs 201 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 221 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Dodge and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Hornet or the Tiguan?
On the specs compared here, the Hornet makes more sense for most buyers; the Tiguan doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
The Hornet against the Tiguan: two brands, one class, and more nuance than the marketing suggests. In daily life, I think the first difference you’d notice is 67 hp more power, and that goes to the Hornet.
The Hornet is built for people who weigh engine & performance heavily, and the Tiguan for people who weigh the things a spec sheet can’t capture.
My pick: the Hornet.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.