2026 Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Lexus NX Comparison with Price, Specs, & Photos
Compact crossover SUVs have rapidly grown in popularity for a variety of reasons. They give drivers greater interior space for cargo and passengers, go-anywhere performance capabilities, and a more confident driving position compared to a sedan. If you’re in the market for a compact crossover, the market is filled with more choices than ever before.
We find that more and more shoppers continue to choose the Volkswagen Tiguan because of its collection of premium features normally reserved for luxury vehicles. To illustrate the tremendous value found on the Tiguan, Volkswagen of Ann Arbor has taken its time to compare the Tiguan to its most popular luxury-branded competitor — the Lexus NX. You might be surprised how the Volkswagen Tiguan measures up against a top-tier luxury brand.
Volkswagen Tiguan vs Lexus NX
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo 4MOTION | VS | 2026 Lexus NX 350 AWD |
| $43,085* | MSRP | $44,825 * |
| 22 / 29 / 25 | Fuel Economy (city/hwy/combined MPG) | 21 / 28 / 24 |
| Standard | Sunroof | Optional |
| Standard | Heated Steering Wheel | Optional |
| Standard | Ventilated Front Seats | Not Available |
| Standard | Wireless Charging | Optional |
| Standard | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Not Available |
| 20-inch | Wheel Size | 18-inch |
| 65.3 cubic feet | Max Cargo Volume | 46.9 cubic feet |
| 2 Years / 20,000 Miles | Scheduled Maintenance | 1 Year / 10,000 Miles |
| 10.25 inches | Digital Gauge Cluster Size | 7 inches |
| Genuine Leather | Upholstery Type | Synthetic Leatherette |
The main luxury competitor of the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Lexus NX, begins this matchup with a $1,740 price premium. Despite its luxury badge, the Lexus NX can’t match the abundant premium features that come standard on the Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo. These include a power sunroof, genuine leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats. Each of these great features either comes as an option at a costly price or doesn’t even exist at all on the NX. Additionally, this Volkswagen SUV comes standard with a stunning 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit customizable digital gauge cluster that’s much later than the one found inside the Lexus NX 250.
Shifting our focus to technology, the Tiguan remains a segment leader. On the SEL R-Line Turbo trim, you’ll receive a 360-degree surround-view camera as standard. The Tiguan also boasts superior EPA-estimated fuel economy and a far greater cargo capacity than the NX. Larger 20-inch wheels give the Tiguan a commanding stance on the road. Lastly, Lexus simply cannot match Volkswagen’s impressive 2-Year / 20,000-Mile complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage that’s included on the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Winner — Volkswagen Tiguan
Now that we’ve tallied the results and crunched the numbers, the clear winner of this competitive comparison is the Volkswagen Tiguan. Despite the Lexus NX wearing a ‘premium’ badge, it can’t match the Volkswagen Tiguan for seating capacity, luxury features, cargo capacity, value, and price. For drivers looking for exceptional value along with unparalleled comfort, safety, and tech amenities -- the Volkswagen Tiguan remains the top choice.
*Starting MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price. Specifications, equipment, options, and prices are subject to change without notice. Some items may be unavailable when vehicle is built. Ask your dealer about availability of options and verify that the vehicle includes the equipment you ordered.
**EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage may vary based on various factors including driving conditions.