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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  Best Vehicle I have owned - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By cpogordon - July 10 - 2:08 pm

  I have owned my Tiguan since October 2008 and have never had a problem. The 2.0 Turbo engine is fantastic and gives you the acceleration you need when you push down on the gas pedal. The transmission is smooth and both the interior and exterior are built with quality materials. This is the best vehicle I have owned in my over 30 years of driving. In addition, I was T-boned by a driver who ran a Red light doing 30 – 40 mph who crash strait into my driver’s door and walked away without a scratch due to the safety features and quality build of the Tiguan. As to people who complain about pulsating brakes during hard braking – that’s call Antilock brakes. Also, if you have a sunroof you need to close it when it rains. That will cut down on your mold problems.

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  Quality Over Quantity - 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Jason - July 8 - 2:36 am

  Smaller dimensions and my driving experience put the Tiguan in a class of its own. I enjoyed test driving the CX-5 and CR-V and while the Tiguan was not necessarily more athletic, the driving experience and interior felt a class above. This generation of the Tiguan is Volkswagen before the cost-cutting - not a volume seller, but it fills a niche for those wanting a premium feel without the Audi markup, much like the Jetta used to be stepping stone to the A4 or 3-series. Cargo space is comparable to a hatch, smaller than other compact CUVs, but just as versatile as both. As a side-note, I would pick the Jetta over both if VW would just improve the interior quality. The Golf is a great car and is the smart choice for fuel efficiency, but the looks never grew on me so the Tiguan was a good alternative. Contrary to most reviews, the interior was actually larger and more airy than I expected. With both the front and back seats adjusted all the way back, there was plenty of legroom but it comes at the expense of less cargo space in the rear. Fuel economy is not a strong point, especially since I do mostly city driving, but the performance in my eyes is worth the trade off. Once the turbo kicks in its hard not to smile and it feels very stable at high speeds or during bad weather. The steering is a little light at lower speeds but has great feel at higher speeds. The stereo on the SE (something often overlooked in reviews but important to me) is as good, or better, than top of the line systems in other brands. In my opinion, the upgraded Fender system is unnecessary. The good aside, I have to agree the driving position takes getting used to. The view is commanding, but the steering wheel and dash feel too high, and the armrests too low (I am 60). I personally like the firm seats. I would not, and did not pay MSRP for the Tiguan SE, especially since an all-new version will be available later this year. Reliability is unknown for me at this point, but in over 100k miles with my last Jetta 2.5 I had to do nothing but replace a battery. Hoping for the same experience here.

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  Pleasantly Surprised! - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Riteon - July 5 - 7:00 pm

  I religiously research cars so I cross shopped the Audi Q5, VW CC, etc. and was sold on the CC. I never considered to research the Tiguan because I just thought it was too small. I was there to get the CC when I saw this White Gold SEL fully loaded. Took it for a spin and was sold. Bought it right there. Had it for a few days now and still finding things I love about it. I put the car in reverse and was surprised to see the backup camera. I didnt even know it was there till after I bought it. The ride is so smooth and responsive. The interior on the SEL is outstanding. Its nicer than the Audi Q5. I highly recommend this car.

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  Best small SUV - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By BSLA - June 27 - 3:00 pm

  Strong daily high speed freeway cruiser not a interior noise to be heard except for Sirius, solid feel SUV

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  Best Value for Base Model Out in the Market - 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Tom Rasmussen - June 25 - 8:28 pm

  This car is for my daughter for use at college and to get home on holidays. We checked out all the standard SUVs and test drove: Honda CRV, RAV4, Mazada CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, and Kia Sportage. Our selection criteria was all wheel drive, good acceleration, elevated seating view, heated car seats and decent gas mileage. Each of the cars tested had it pros and cons. We finally selected the 2017 Tiguan despite its aged design; 2018 will have a major update. This review is based on the first two thousand miles. Pros: all wheel drive, high quality leatherette, heated seats, XM radio, Apple Car Play, rain sensing wipers, acceleration (turbo), and lots of standard features in base model. Cons: uses premium fuel, gas mileage not as good as competitors, and limited cargo space (although decent with seats down). Sticker price was around $28K and you should easily get one for at least $3K off.

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  Great, except for the transmission - 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By jxenon - June 25 - 12:45 pm

  This is a great car, however, the programming of the automatic transmission is horrible! To achieve high MPG, the transmission shifts to 6th gear around 35 or 40 mph! The result is very low RPM and engine noise. This happens in D mode. Going to S mode is not a solution since then, the shifting point is around 3000 RPM which is then too high. So hopefully VW of North America addresses this and does a reprogramming of the transmission.

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  My Lemon - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By J. Petrus - June 9 - 2:00 am

  We purchased this car thinking German engineering is built strong and tuff. One week from owning the car the breaks start to squeek loud( high pitch sound).I took it to the Van nuys dealer and they said it is break dust and it will go away.We had a crv before that and never had a problem, Regretably, we are looking to trade this car with eithier another crv,rav4 or cx7. I guess the German cars are not so strong after all.

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  1500 miles so far-very fun, lookn good - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Susansocal - May 17 - 11:06 am

  I have had my new White SE Tiguan for 1 month and I am really enjoying driving again. I sold my 9 year old Camry and do not miss it one bit (it was very reliable but BORING, yet the gas mileage was great). I cant rate the reliability yet, but so far I am very pleased, and no real quality issues to address, but I do agree that the Turbo is rather jerky at times and leaving from a stop light turning right it is jerky accelerating to get going, almost like I am driving a stick in a low gear (which I do not have the manual, and I have no need or desire to use the shifting option). The dealer really came down on the sticker price - I got the pricing below a comparable Honda CRV/or RAV4.

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  The good, the bad, the ugly - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By crd - April 21 - 8:30 am

  After one year... I love the power, handling and design of this car. I was looking for a sporty, fast cuv that could still accommodate a three year old and all that entails. This car does that. That being said, driving home from the dealer I noticed (it was at night) I could only see 3 ft ahead of me. Took car back to find lights were ill- positioned. 6 months later I had to get the fuel pump replaced. Already had to get burned out drivers head lamp replaced and there is an awful squeek inside that I cant seem to find/fix. I like the car but am wary about what to expect in year 2. Imo, quality is really lacking. I am thinking of trading it in already, which saddens me as it is fun to drive.

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  2011 Tiguan 2.0L turbo rattles!!! - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By howieb38 - April 7 - 5:37 pm

  I bought this 2011 Tiguan because I also bought a 2010 VW Passat wagon. Unfortunately the Tiguan has an annoying rattle in the engine when ever I accelerate from a stop and cuts out at about 3000 RPM. Ive had it to two dealers and they claim its normal for the engine?? When I explain that I also own a 2010 Passat with the exact same engine and theres no rattle sound, they say "That is normal for this car". I cant believe that VW wont acknowledge that theres a problem. I would return it and buy another brand if I could, but after going back and forth with VW for three months, Im stuck with this lemon. Its a $40,000 mistake. Its also the last VW Ill ever buy.