BYD Song Plus vs VW Tiguan: Electric Efficiency or Potent Performance, Choose Your Preference

Two of the strongest options that stand out are the BYD Song Plus and the Volkswagen Tiguan. While BYD is all about electric and hybrid innovation with its Blade Battery, Volkswagen is popular for petrol performance, premium build quality, and strong resale value.

One of the most competitive segments in Saudi Arabia is the compact SUV market. It is specifically for families and professionals who want efficiency, comfort, and style in a practical package.

Let us look closely at how BYD Song Plus and the Volkswagen Tiguan differ in performance, interiors, design, safety, and pricing, as this will help buyers decide which one fits best in daily life and long drives all over the KSA.

Powertrain and Performance: Electric vs Petrol

BYD Song Plus: Hybrid and EV Choices

The BYD Song Plus has two routes. That is the DM-i plug-in hybrid and the full EV. The hybrid makes use of a 1.5L petrol engine with an electric motor that produces 197 hp with an electric-only range of up to 112 km (CLTC).

The EV model has a 218 hp motor and a range of up to 605 km on a single charge (CLTC). Both accelerates smoothly, with the EV moving from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.

Volkswagen Tiguan: 2.0L Turbo Petrol

The focus of Tiguan is on petrol power with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. It makes 201 hp and 221 lb-ft torque, matched to an 8-speed automatic.

There is a steady acceleration, since it does 0 to 100 km/h in about 8 seconds, and for the sake of varied terrains, its 4MOTION system adds some grip. Fuel economy is around 10 to 12 km/L which depends on conditions.

Specification	BYD Song Plus DM-i (Hybrid)	BYD Song Plus EV	Volkswagen Tiguan Petrol
Engine / Motor	1.5L + Electric	218 hp Motor	2.0L Turbo Petrol
Power output	197 hp	218 hp	201 hp
0 to 100 km/h	7.9s	7.9s	~8s
Range (km)	112 EV + petrol backup	Up to 605	~700–750 (fuel tank)
Fuel efficiency / economy	High (plug-in hybrid)	Zero emissions	10 to 12 km/L
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD / AWD

Interior, Features and Tech: Two Different Cockpits

BYD’s Connected Cabin

The centrepiece, inside the BYD Song Plus, is its 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, paired with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and BYD’s DiLink OS.

The manufacturer uses eco-friendly materials in the cabin. It has dual wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and ventilated seats. The layout is airy and modern, with a theme that is inspired by marine.

Volkswagen’s Digital Comfort

The approach of the Tiguan is premium as it features 12.9-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, voice control, and wireless phone charging.

Higher trims have leather seating, massage functions, ambient lighting with 30 colours, and Harman Kardon audio. Its three-zone climate control adds comfort, and the build quality feels solid and long-lasting.

Comfort and Convenience

The focus of BYD is on tech integration and a roomy layout for young families and urban users. Volkswagen focuses on refinement as it offers massage seats, a heated steering wheel, and better noise insulation. The two vehicles score well, but the Tiguan is luxury while BYD has futuristic practicality.

Exterior Design and Practicality

Ocean vs Classic Design

The BYD Song Plus follows its "Ocean Aesthetics" style with smooth lines, slim headlights, and through-type taillights. Other variants like the Song L also come with a bolder "Dragon Face" design.

Volkswagen is bent on the path of traditional European SUV with sharp lines, a strong hexagonal grille, and optional illuminated badges to give it a premium finish.

Space and Utility

The two vehicles are five-seaters. BYD slightly has more interior width and cargo flexibility. There is no third-row for Tiguan in 2025, so this helps improve rear legroom and luggage space. Both have practical boot space, though Tiguan wins in handling cargo thanks to flat-folding rear seats.

Build Quality

Volkswagen has a knack for long-lasting materials and refined touchpoints, while BYD is popular with modern finishes but is still seen as new when it comes to long-term durability.

Safety and Driver Assistance

BYD’s Safety Suite

The Song Plus has DiPilot system from BYD with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and a 360-degree camera.

Some of the standard kits are six airbags, Blind Spot Detection, and electronic stability control. The EV models add safety through the Blade Battery with strong fire resistance.

Volkswagen’s Safety Standards

The Tiguan has 10 airbags, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and automated emergency braking. It also has proven ratings in Euro NCAP.

Side-by-Side Safety

The two SUVs have modern ADAS features. However, Volkswagen has proven global crash scores, while BYD impresses with advanced EV-specific safety innovations.

Price, Variants, and Value Proposition

BYD Song Plus

The Song Plus EV comes in Luxury, Premium, and Flagship trims. The price is approximaty between SAR 79,000 and SAR 92,500, depending on the size of battery. The hybrid version is slightly less expensive.

Volkswagen Tiguan

In Saudi Arabia, the Tiguan comes in four trims: S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line. The prices are between SAR 116,000 and SAR 155,000. The Tiguan, while more expensive, justifies its price with premium features, stronger brand recognition, and proven resale value.

Variant	BYD Song Plus (SAR)	Volkswagen Tiguan (SAR)
Base / Luxury	~79,000	116,000
Mid / Premium / SE	~86,000	127,000
Top / Flagship / SEL R-Line	~92,500	155,000

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV

The BYD Song Plus is the better choice for those who want affordability, top electric or hybrid tech, and low cost of running. Its long range EV makes it ideal for daily commutes in Saudi cities with easy access to charging.

The Volkswagen Tiguan, on the other hand, suits buyers who value classic petrol performance, premium interiors, and stronger brand status. It is more expensive, but it offers proven quality and resale advantage.