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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  Drives like a sports sedan, not an SUV! - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By vdub4life - June 6 - 9:00 pm

  My wife was in the market for an SUV, but still wanted good gas mileage along with the utility. We shopped around a bit, drove Honda, Toyota, Acura, GM, etc. Although pricing was a little better in some other brands, the quality and fun factor did not even compare to the Tiguan. My wife went from a Camry to this and did not even look back! Great SUV, good price range for options, safe and a very peppy engine for a 4 banger! Outdoes many other brands V6 crossover SUVs.

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  Transmission Kicks and other problems - 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By bob481 - June 6 - 8:27 pm

  Transmission kicks and struggles over hills. Some people have stated that the transmission smartly adjusts to each drivers particular driving style over time. I havent found that to be true, been driving mine since November. YES, it makes a rumbling sound at 30-35mph. If you want to open ONLY the back windows while driving you cant, not without a brain-crushing noise and tremoring. Is this true of any SUV/CUV? Sound system is lacking. To my ears, theres a hollow, echo sound no matter how tweak it. And the radio, CD player, Satellite radio, and Blue-Tooth Audio Input all play at slightly different volume levels. Constantly adjusting the sound level. Ride is OK, but FAR from cushy.

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  Love Love Love - 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Virgie K. - June 6 - 8:27 pm

  This is my first VW and I couldnt be more impressed. I had a Volvo previously and my standards are pretty high. The ride is comparable to a luxury vehicle and the redesigned body and interior are superior quality. I highly recommend if you want a beautiful suv at a great price.

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  Great Ride - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Duanne - June 2 - 3:00 pm

  Purchased the Tiguan in Aug, 2008 and now have 5000 miles. Two round trips to north of Atlanta, and no problems. No problem passing a vehicle or entering the Interstate, just put the pedal to the medal and this baby scoots. Many great compliments about its sporty good looks. Just fun to drive. My wife has no problem getting me to run errands!!! My heavy foot may be the cause of the not so great gas mileage Ive heard other reviewers reporting. Only about 25mpg average

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  Good car with major flaws. - 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By LNorman - May 29 - 3:12 pm

  This car is a good car; nice looking, nice interior, great sunroof. The car is not so good on fuel, engine is loud and there is a serious engine hesitation that may get you seriously hurt. When rolling to a stop sign and accelerating to turn left (mostly), the car stumbles and pumping the gas pedal to get it going doesnt help. One day, Im going to get hit by somebody. Ive taken it to the dealer and they cant fix it. The service tech owns the same car and has the same problem.

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  LOOK GOOD - drives great! - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By barry3k - May 8 - 11:53 pm

  I researched a number of crossovers. Ford Edge, Mazda cx-7, audi q5, nissan rouge, toyota venza, ford escape, saturn vue, honda crv. The Tiguan was the one that gave me the best value, the best handling, free scheduled maintenance, and VW reputation. The back seat is comfortable for adults to ride. The cargo space is awesome.

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  Lovin my Tigger - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By docnugget - April 27 - 7:00 pm

  This vehicle is awesome. The drive is very tight for its class and the appointments are similar to my Passat 4-motion wagon. The 4-motion is a definite plus and the ride is superb. It is definitely not a car for the everyday Joe or Jane and thats the way my wife and I like it. I cant imagine a 200 HP Rogue, Rav4, or CRV. I feel this vehicle sits similarly to a land rover but with a lower, more stable center of gravity. There are no unnecessary and gaudy amenities which would push up the price for many other makes. Plus, its a VW and you cant touch that. I do wish that a diesel version was available but Ill just have to wait, hope, and wish for the 2011 model to be a TDI.

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  2018 Tiguan SE - In service 18 days and counting.. - 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By W. Gallup - April 27 - 2:25 pm

  Purchased a new 2018 Tiguan SE on September 15th - within a week I started hearing a rattle from both B Pillars, excessive road noise from the drives door and a flicker with the back-up camera. Took the vehicle in for service on 10/9 and have yet to receive the vehicle back. VW corporate is now involved, including their resolution department and they have attempted to stall my filling of a lemon law claim until 10/31. My only request is they buy the car back and return my deposit and first payment. I have lost all faith in the Volkswagen brand based on the way I have been treated.

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  Fun, Fast, and Fitting. - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Jboogaloo - March 11 - 4:36 am

  After having it for five days and putting over 560miles on it, I can say that this automobile is fantastic. I took it home Thursday of last week (6/19/2008) and took it to Va Beach Saturday morning. Being that it is the first 500 miles, I didnt go over 65, and I was getting between 31.5 and 33 mpg!! That is amazing. There is the "recommended" premium octane fuel, but you can put regular. I will tell you that paying the extra 4-5 bucks (at the most) for prem per tank is well worth it. The drive is comfortable, even with four adults. The cabin is very quiet and the seat comfort is just fantastic. Plenty of room for both driver & passenger along with back passengers.

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  6 Weeks and Very Happy - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Rob 110 - March 8 - 3:40 pm

  I bought my Tiguan after several months of looking at small SUVs. Each time I kept coming back to the Tiguan. I thought I would get a CRV, but the power isnt there and there are far too many on the road. I wanted to like the Acura RDX as an Acura TL owner. While I liked it, the gas mileage (poor) and cost (high) prevented the deal. The Ford Escape Hybrid just didnt have the fit and finish. The Tiguan was the best bet for me: good value, my bike fit inside, still somewhat uncommon on the road, nice looking, and just a great all around package. Six weeks into it and I still love it as much as the day I bought it.