Dacia Bigster vs. VW Tiguan: Der SUV-Vergleich 2024 – Mehr als nur ein Preiskampf?

Dacia Bigster vs. VW Tiguan (2024): Initial SUV Comparison

Is there more that differentiates these two models than just a significant price difference?

Dacia is aiming for the stars but keeps its feet on the ground: The Bigster is the brand's new flagship model, setting its sights on VW. But it's not the Tayron we're comparing it to, as that model is almost 20 centimeters longer and also offers seven seats. The Bigster, on the other hand, comes exclusively with five seats. Therefore, the more appropriately matched Tiguan is the one we're pitting against the Bigster for an early comparison.

In the competitive automotive market, the VW Tiguan claimed the title of the top-selling new car in Germany in September 2024. However, Dacia has ambitious plans to significantly boost its current 2.5 percent market share in the country with the introduction of the Dacia Bigster.

Photo Gallery: Dacia Bigster (2024)

Appearance/Size

At first glance, the Bigster makes a striking impression as an SUV. Measuring at 4.57 meters in length, it falls on the larger side of the C-segment, extending about 25 centimeters longer than the visually comparable Duster. The additional length is notably apparent in the rear overhang.

The entire vehicle presents a strong and durable appearance, yet it still includes several appealing design elements. Notable are the graphic designs on the front and doors, as well as above the rear license plate. A solid skid plate at both the front and rear underscores the vehicle's toughness. Particularly when equipped with the optional 19-inch wheels and the unique "Indigo Blue" color, the Bigster exudes a mature and upscale vibe, avoiding any impression of being low-cost.

Upcoming Dacia Bigster Set for 2024 Release

Upcoming 2024 VW Tiguan

Set to debut in 2024, the Dacia Big

Upcoming Dacia Bigster Model Slated for 202

Upcoming 2024 VW Tiguan

The fully revamped VW Tiguan, set to debut at the beginning of 2024, measures at 4.54 meters – just a tad shorter than the Bigster by three centimeters. The most notable difference is in its aesthetic; unlike the Dacia, the Tiguan aims for a less rugged appearance. Its design takes cues from both its predecessor and the latest Passat, leaning more towards a conventional car style. Below, we compare the dimensions of the Bigster and Tiguan, though Dacia has yet to release the exact measurements.

Interior

Dacia had to be even more inventive inside the car to balance the tight budget while also meeting the demands of a discerning customer base. What stands out right away is the conspicuously high-set, upright dashboard. Its crisp lines and geometric shapes bear a strong resemblance to that of the Duster.

The craftsmanship is quite attractive, despite the continued absence of any foamed plastics or even high-quality materials. While the Bigster's interior appears significantly more sophisticated than, say, the Duster, it still falls short of being considered "luxury."

Moreover, Dacia offers some smart solutions such as the You-Clip system, initially seen in the Duster, which allows for easy and convenient attachment of various accessories at key locations within the passenger compartment. Whether it's a flashlight, clothes hook, or tablet holder, everything can be installed swiftly and effortlessly.

Upcoming Dacia Bigster Model Slated for 202

Volkswagen's Tiguan model, set to

Every version of the model comes standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, which is not the case with the Duster. In both the Bigster Essential and Expression models, this screen provides access to the Media Display multimedia system, which includes four speakers and allows for wireless connection to smartphones through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Depending on the vehicle's features, driving information is displayed on either a 7-inch driver information screen for the Essential and Expression models, or a digital 10-inch screen for the Extreme and Journey versions, both of which are customizable in color to suit individual preferences.

Additional updates from Dacia and Volkswagen:

The front seats offer a comfortable experience with ample space in every direction. The legroom in the back is impressively generous, seemingly comparable to the class leader, Skoda Kodiaq. The headroom is also satisfactory, even with the presence of a large panoramic roof. A touch of luxury is added with the inclusion of partial electric seat adjustment and a dual-zone climate control system.

The Bigster features a unique and affordable 'Sleep Pack' that is designed to be easily removable. This three-part set includes a double bed measuring 1.90 meters in length and up to 1.30 meters in width, which can be assembled by one person in under two minutes, a storage table, and additional space for belongings. The Sleep Pack is specifically tailored to fit the interior dimensions of the Bigster and can be conveniently stored in the trunk.

Upcoming Dacia Bigster Model (Set for 202

Volkswagen Tiguan (Upcoming 202

In the Tiguan, one would have to scrutinize closely to find any cheap materials or shoddy craftsmanship. Volkswagen has evidently taken caution to avoid careless blunders following a surge of customer complaints in other model series.

Additionally, the Tiguan has embraced a more digital approach. It features horizontally oriented tablet-like instruments, a sizable infotainment display measuring 32.8 cm diagonally (12.9 inches, with an optional upgrade to 15.0 inches), boasting a revamped menu interface and graphics. There's also a newly introduced head-up display and a multifunctional experience selector that includes an integrated TFT-LCD screen. This allows for the adjustment of driving modes and volume, but regrettably, it doesn't control the automatic climate system.

Upon launch, the Dacia Bigster will be available with a selection of four engines, but there will be no diesel or plug-in hybrid options. The Bigster TCe will feature an advanced engine that produces 140 horsepower. This engine is a state-of-the-art 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that operates on the Miller cycle for increased efficiency and reduced pumping losses. It's paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a six-speed manual transmission.

The ECO-G 140 takes the second spot, notable for its ability to run on both petrol and LPG, a unique feature of Dacia cars. With the Bigster model, Dacia is charting new territory by pairing a dual-fuel engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system for the first time. This system aids the 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine during startup and acceleration, whether it's using petrol or LPG.

Photo Gallery: Testing the 2024 VW Tiguan

The vehicle comes equipped with two fuel tanks that hold a combined 99 liters – 50 liters for gasoline and 49 for LPG – allowing for a travel distance of up to 1,450 kilometers without refueling. The LPG tank is strategically placed beneath the trunk floor to ensure cargo space remains unaffected. Additionally, a dashboard-mounted switch allows for an effortless and smooth transition between the two types of fuel.

130 horsepower in the 4-wheel drive version, 140 horsepower in the 48-volt variant, 140 horsepower in the ECO-G model, and 155 horsepower in

The newly introduced Hybrid 155 stands as the ultimate powertrain option. This hybrid system merges a 107 horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors—one rated at 50 horsepower and the other functioning as a high-voltage starter/generator. Additionally, it incorporates a 1.4-kWh battery operating at 230 volts and an electric automatic transmission with four gears dedicated to the combustion engine and two for the electric motors. As the Bigster always starts on electric power, the need for a clutch has been entirely eliminated.

Drivers who frequently venture off paved roads will discover that the TCe 130 4×4 offers the ideal drive system. This model is equipped with a four-wheel-drive, a six-speed manual transmission, and a 48-volt mild hybrid system that ensures top-notch efficiency. In this variant as well, the 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine receives electric assistance during startup and acceleration.

Dacia Bigster set to launch in 2024.

Upcoming Volkswagen Tiguan Model Set to Launch in

The Tiguan offers a complete range of options: a 1.5 TSI engine available in either 130 or 150 horsepower, a 2.0 TSI engine with 265 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with either 204 or 272 horsepower, and two diesel engines with 150 and 193 horsepower respectively. The most powerful petrol and diesel engines come standard with all-wheel drive from the factory. Additionally, every Tiguan comes with a standard automatic dual-clutch transmission (DSG).

Costs

The exact pricing for the Bigster model has not been established yet, with details expected to be released in January 2025. However, Dacia's CEO Denis Le Vot has indicated at the launch that the standard combustion engine model would have a starting price below 25,000 euros, and the more complex hybrid variant would be priced under 30,000 euros. If true, these would be highly competitive prices considering the competition and the qualities offered. The Bigster is set to hit the market in April 2025.

In other words, the highest-priced Bigster is likely to come in well under the price of the most affordable Tiguan in Germany, which currently stands at 38,250 euros for the 130-horsepower gasoline model.

Photo Gallery Comparison: 2024 Dacia Bigster versus 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

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