Overview & Reviews

The Volkswagen Tiguan provides a different take on the compact crossover segment. Really, how could it not with a name like Tiguan, the result of VW's marketing department apparently melding the words "tiger" and "iguana" together? The car itself isn't quite so head-scratching, but it's definitely outside the norm. Whereas many competitors are utilitarian in nature, with an emphasis on practicality, the Tiguan's refined driving manners and upscale interior lend it a distinctly European flavor that you won't find elsewhere.

So while it may not be the best choice for families or those who prioritize maximum cargo space, a new or used Tiguan will still satisfy the basic SUV needs of others looking for an elevated seating height and the all-weather assurance of all-wheel drive. Plus, if you're familiar with the Volkswagen brand, the Tiguan's numerous similarities to the previous-generation Jetta and Golf will make the switch to an SUV that much easier.

Current Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a four-door, five-passenger compact crossover. It's powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that generates 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The base front-wheel-drive version comes with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, but all others are automatic-only. All-wheel drive can be specified on all but the base, manual-equipped Tiguan.

Five trim levels are available: S, SE, SE with Appearance, SEL and R-Line. All come standard with plenty of features, including eight-way manual front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 40/20/40-split-folding and reclining rear seat, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an audio system with an auxiliary audio jack and a CD player. Moving up through the trims adds features such as the Car-Net telematics system, keyless ignition and entry, xenon headlamps, heated power seats, leather seating, a rearview camera and a navigation system. The R-Line trim takes a sporty tack with its 19-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension and body styling tweaks.

In reviews, we've noted that the Volkswagen Tiguan stands apart thanks to its sleek European design and high-quality interior. Controls are large and well-placed, and the cabin is adorned with genuine aluminum trim. These virtues are matched with equally solid driving dynamics. Unfortunately, the Tiguan lacks the cargo space of some of its competitors. With 23.8 cubic feet in the rear, the Tiguan offers less space than a Jetta wagon. With the second row folded down, maximum capacity grows to 56.1 cubic feet, which is still well shy of class leaders such as the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4. The Tiguan can also command a hefty price premium over other compact utes.

Used Volkswagen Tiguan Models
The Volkswagen Tiguan was introduced for 2009. Until 2012, changes consisted chiefly of trim level and equipment shuffling. For 2012, however, the front-end styling was refreshed and fuel mileage was slightly improved. Other than lacking the R-Line trim level and the Car-Net telematics service, these latter Tiguans are similar to today's lineup.

User Reviews:

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  Quick Overview Based on Test Drive - 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Adam E - July 31 - 1:07 am

  I test drove an SEL Premium AWD model (5 seat). It has a lot of interior room. I love how the back seat can be adjusted - tilt and backwards and forwards. The drivers seat was quite comfortable and I had copious legroom. The trunk space is quite large and looks like it can handle long items without even putting down the rear seats. The VW "cockpit" display was a pleasure to use. The vehicle handled reasonably well at all speeds. Unlike some others, I found the acceleration perfectly fine, even in Normal mode. There is an occasional odd momentary hesitation when accelerating from a stop - not sure if this is turbo lag or how the transmission is programmed. It felt almost like a dual clutch transmission. Other than that, acceleration was perfectly adequate at around town speeds and on the highway. Its not a sports car, but its perfectly fine in the handling and acceleration department for a family vehicle. The interior looked very practical, with several useful cubbies. The fit and finish was OK, but not perfect. Ive rented or test driven almost all the compact SUVs on the market. Up until the Tiguan, I had felt the 2017 CRV was the best (with the 1.5L turbo). The 2018 Tiguan is not perfect, but its the only compact family SUV that I would buy over the CRV.

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  More than the Reviews would tell you - 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Edzel Duquiatan - July 29 - 7:41 am

  I have always driven either a sedan or a hatch all my life. Except for the higher seats, it pretty much drives like a sedan. So when I really needed to buy an SUV for the longer drives and tougher terrain, I did a lot of research. Sure enough, you will get all the tech you want on all of the other brands (moon-roof, better infotainment, GPS navigation). For that, I drove the Subaru Crosstrek and even the Mazda CX5 prior to the purchase. But at the price point of the VW Tiguan, it just had the qualities I really wanted in an SUV. Stronger than the average engine, solid and premium driving performance, AWD, and being more like a compact SUV were all that made me decide. I initially had thoughts if I made the right decision because of all the bad reviews. But day after day of driving it makes me think that I made the right decision. It just grows on me everyday. In the end, it just depends on what you want in your SUV.

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  Very disappointed!! - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Josue Lopez - July 14 - 11:45 pm

  One of the worst Volkswagens I have ever driven. A car with less than 70k miles had to get a new engines, throttle issues, oil leak issue, and much more. I have never had any issue with other makers such as Toyota and Nissan. I highly do not recommend this vehicle or anything else from VW please do not purchase VW it so unreliable.

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  Fantastic Upgrade from Manual Economy car - 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By nrg921 - July 4 - 6:14 pm

  I was in need of something with more cargo space & towing capacity, but could still be an everyday commuter. I liked the control of manual transmission vehicle, and it was VERY hard to give that up. I found the Tiguan to have far superior handling, power, and responsiveness (when I compared to other CUVs) that I was willing to give up my manual . I still feel in control. It has the extra cargo space & towing I was looking for, fun and easy to drive on a daily basis, and the luxury interior I didnt know I wanted until I have & love it! With a good pair of winter tires, front wheel drive is all you need. Drives great in WI winters & MO ice storms!

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  Good by Minivan - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Friars6 - July 1 - 3:26 pm

  The build quality on the Tiguan is amazing for a car in this price range. The car looks fantastic and handles exceptionally well with 4motion. The 2.0 Turbo is much quicker that I expected and the car is very quite on the highway.

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  Best Volkswagen Yet - 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By erikn206 - June 4 - 12:39 am

  This is my third and favorite Volkswagen. My first was a 95 Jetta, then a 07 4Motion Passat Wagon, and now this 2013 Tiguan. The interior is well laid out and comfy. The giant sunroof is just cool. This small crossover SUV has some trade-offs with my previous wagon. Its tallness makes it easier to maneuver in the city, but its smallness means it doesnt feel as solid and smooth over the studded tire ruts on the freeway. After two longer highway trips Im used to it and wouldnt go back. The transmission holds a low gear when you crest steep hills. Its a little noisy and strange at first, but works well to keep the car from accelerating rapidly at the crest of the hill.

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  Gr8 SUV - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By LovinTig - June 2 - 9:43 am

  My 09 SEL has only been home 2 days. I must say going from the Touareg to the Tiquan was a step down for me. But the cost of gas plus the 1800 brake job on the Touareg made up my mind quick. I think dealers should disclose the high cost of maintenance. You can rest assured I checked out the cost to replace brakes on the Tig! I love all the features! Opted not to have the nav sys. Rather use my phone nav. Have everything else. With the limited supply and end-of-year incentives (they were gr8), had to settle for the blue-pretty though. The only down side I experienced was the negotiation at the dealer! I HATE that part of purchasing a car! Otherwise, I am happy so far! Happy Drivin VW Folk!

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  09 Tiguan is a great car, Buy It Now! - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By dorth - May 28 - 11:33 am

  Ive been eying up this vehicle since I first heard about it back in March. In my opinion this is the best designed vehicle in its class although I do feel its price tag is slightly above what it should be. The Tiguan overall performs great and has a lot more room than it might appear from the outside. Im very happy with this car!

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  What a beautiful car this is - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By José Martínez - May 22 - 1:06 am

  Our 4th VW and 1st SUV. Weve owned 2 Jettas before; we currently own a 08 R32 alsol. This car drives quite well compared to any American rental you throw at it, SUV or not. Steering and cornering are surprisingly well- mannered. However, despite VWoAs claims to the contrary, it is no big GTI: the cars weight, geometry, and suspension setup are obvious; and the Tiptronic transmission feels a bit lazy compared to the razor-sharp DSG. But we have the R32 for that. This is the family car. Drop-dead gorgeous; it carries us and the kids very comfortably; and it has loads of features. Safety is top-notch; and 4Motion makes a huge difference in snow. And its a VW, so it feels like home to us.

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  Best car ever - 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Susan Dillon - May 4 - 8:42 am

  Great car, this car does require premium gas and is slightly more in repairs but well worth the money.