2016 Subaru Forester vs. 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2016  Subaru Forester and the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan are both small SUVs with stylish bodies and good handling, but which one is right for you to drive around Syracuse, Liverpool and Oneida?

At Bill Rapp Subaru, we know how important it is to get a full understanding of vehicle offerings before you make a decision. That's why we want to educate you about the value of each one of these vehicles in our vehicle comparison below.

Subaru Forester Exterior vs. Volkswagen Tiguan Exterior

The 2016 Subaru Forester is a compact utility vehicle with a simple shape that is modern and appealing. The Forester underwent a redesign in 2014 which made it a little taller and longer, subsequently incrasing outward visibility. The front end is also tall, with handsome vents, lights, grilles and accents. This redesign made the Forester look better than ever.

The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan is on the smaller side for a compact utility vehicle, and its exterior is not this vehicle's strong suit. Its appearance is almost boring, although it is a slight improvement from past models. The only positive is the addition of the sportier R-Line model which offers front or all-wheel drive.

Subaru Forester Interior vs. Volkswagen Tiguan Interior

Within the cabin, the Forester's redesign updated the upholsteries and door trim, and also gave the vehicle soft touch surfaces. Controls are simple, so you won't need to spend time trying to decipher what each one means, and the 6.2-inch touchscreen allows for basic infotainment functions.

The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan's interior is as underwhelming as its exterior, without any stand-out features. All models come with Volkswagen's new MIB II infotainment system which includes a USB port for the first time. The interior quality is high, and the details seem polished; it's simple and clean inside the cabin.

Performance Comparison

In the Subaru Forester, you have the choice between a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter flat four and the 2.0-liter turbocharged version producing 250 horsepower in the 2.0XT model. It has sporty handling, and the standard all-wheel drive makes it perfect for off-road journeys or slick road conditions.

The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan has a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with optional all-wheel drive. This all-wheel drive option is best for snowy road conditions. The handling is comfortable, though the steering can feel light at times.

Subaru Safety vs. Volkswagen Safety

The 2016 Subaru Forester shines everywhere else, but its safety ratings are also through the roof. It has earned high praise from the IIHS and is a Top Safety Pick+ with "Good" ratings on all crash tests. It also comes with a slew of safety features such as adaptive cruise control and Subaru's EyeSight camera system.

The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan does have an improved outward visibility compared to past models, though the IIHS crash-test results scored its front crash test only "Marginal." This prevents the vehicle from earning Top Safety Pick. Its lack of forward collision warning/mitigation system knocks off safety points as well.

Test Drive the 2016 Subaru Forester

The 2016 Subaru Forester wins out on all levels against the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan and is a great choice to drive around Syracuse, Liverpool and Oneida. Come to Bill Rapp Subaru, located at 3446 Burnet Ave in Syracuse to test drive your Subaru today.

Read more about the Subaru Forester's technology features.