Volkswagen Tiguan

Overview: Is the Volkswagen Tiguan a Good Compact SUV?

The compact Volkswagen Tiguan delivers car-like manners in an affordable crossover SUV package. The two-row, five-passenger Tiguan relies on VW’s venerable 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for motivation. Generous standard equipment, even in base trims, combines with available all-wheel drive for an appealing option to sedan buyers seeking more utility. The compact first-generation Tiguan launched for the 2009 model year. It was replaced by the larger second-generation edition in 2017. However, Volkswagen continued selling the original version as the Tiguan Limited in 2017 and 2018. The Tiguan was sold for several years alongside the larger and now-discontinued Touareg. It now sits between the smaller Taos and larger Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Volkswagen Tiguan cars for sale.

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Related: How Long Do Volkswagen Tiguans Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Key Features

The Volkswagen Tiguan offers:

• Five-door crossover SUV body style
• Two-row seating; third-row seating available with the second generation
• Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
• Automatic transmission
• Front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive

Trims

The Tiguan starts in S trim, followed by the SE and SEL grades. Meanwhile, the Wolfsburg Edition was available for some years, and the sporty Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line trim joined the lineup more rcently. Most trims are available as 4Motion all-wheel-drive variants.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The first-generation Volkswagen Tiguan interior is cramped in the back row, an issue corrected in the second version. This newest Tiguan is available with a third row that’s best left to younger passengers. Technology varies according to age, generation, and trim, with newer Tiguans having available or standard touchscreen infotainment systems, panoramic sunroofs, and advanced driver-assist features (like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, cross traffic alert, and emergency assist). Cargo capacity is more significant in the larger second-generation Tiguan.

How It Drives

When pressed into action, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine helps the Tiguan deliver energetic acceleration. The standard front-wheel drive version handles capably, while 4Motion all-wheel drive improves traction in poor conditions. While the Tiguan is no GTI or Jetta GLI, it offers a more engaging driving experience that’s unusual in this category.

Safety

Most VW Tiguan years received an overall four- or five-star (good to great) safety score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with some individual tests ranging from three to five stars. However, many second-generation model years received a safety advisory due to insufficient driver protection in a side barrier test (here’s a testing overview for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan).

Reviews

Volkswagen Tiguan reviews via Kelley Blue Book are generally positive. Owners of the first generation give their Tiguans an average rating of 4.2 (out of 5.0). Style, performance, and comfort are the top-rated characteristics. The second generation rises to 4.4, with reliability and value being strong points.

Learn More: Which Years Of Used Volkswagen Tiguans Are Most Reliable?

FAQs

Is a Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?

Tiguan reliability is hit or miss, something to consider when checking out a Volkswagen Tiguan for sale. In particular, engine trouble can be at the heart of problems for certain model years, according to carcomplaints.com. Always get a pre-purchase inspection for any used Volkswagen Tiguan under consideration.

Why was the Tiguan discontinued?

Volkswagen has no plans to discontinue the popular Tiguan compact crossover SUV. In fact, a third generation is on the horizon.

Is the Tiguan a luxury SUV?

No. The mainstream Volkswagen Tiguan competes with SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 rather than luxury models. It focuses more on value than lavish features or performance.

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