Volkswagen Tiguan vs Nissan Qashqai: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Qashqai, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 1,360,194 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Volkswagen Tiguan (87% pass rate) and Nissan Qashqai (79% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the family car segment.
Volkswagen Tiguan
87%
MOT pass rate
355,733 tests
More reliableNissan Qashqai
79%
MOT pass rate
1,004,461 tests
Full Comparison: Volkswagen Tiguan vs Nissan Qashqai
| Category | Volkswagen Tiguan | Nissan Qashqai |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 87%Winner | 79% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 13%Winner | 21% |
| vs National Avg | +5 ptsWinner | -3 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,434 | £1,195Winner |
| Insurance Group | 15-25 | 10-20 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,500-£3,000 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 2.0L | 1.5L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol |
| Segment | Family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 73,589 miWinner | 80,988 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 355,733 | 1,004,461 |
| Model Years | 16 years | 16 years |
| Best Year | 2022 (93%) | 2021 (94%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 2008 (77%)Winner | 2006 (64%) |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Volkswagen Tiguan Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Nissan Qashqai Known Issues
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Volkswagen Tiguan
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Check a Specific Nissan Qashqai
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Volkswagen Tiguan vs Nissan Qashqai FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Volkswagen Tiguan or Nissan Qashqai?
Based on MOT data, the Volkswagen Tiguan is more reliable with a 87% pass rate, compared to 79% for the Nissan Qashqai.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Volkswagen Tiguan costs around £1,434 in fuel, while the Nissan Qashqai costs around £1,195. The Nissan Qashqai is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Volkswagen Tiguan or Nissan Qashqai?
This is a very close comparison. The Volkswagen Tiguan (87% pass rate) and Nissan Qashqai (79% pass rate) are evenly matched on reliability. Your decision should come down to personal preference, running costs, and which feels better to drive. Both are solid choices in the family car segment.
Volkswagen Tiguan Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Nissan Qashqai Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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