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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  Good pick for its class - 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Paul - December 6 - 3:19 am

  The Tiguan S can be had for a reasonable 24k and you get what you pay for, average all around but a superior driving experience compared to the competition. The CRV and RAV4 are more reliable and get better gas mileage but the VW almost feels like a GTI on stilts. The finishes are fine, the seats are comfortable, the turbo 4 gets you into traffic or into the fast lane if thats where youre headed. The headrests create blind spots but overall visibility is average and far better than American competition. Gas mileage fluctuates at 25-26 mpg using mid grade and commuting around DC. Not luxury but not cheap. Decent little commuter if youre sick of a sedan but dont need the utility of a bigger vehicle.

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  VW puts the "SPORT" back into SUV - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By VW Fan Boston - November 29 - 2:00 am

  We traded our beloved 2005 Jetta 2.5 for our Tiguan. I loved driving our Jetta, but I have to say the Tiguan is more fun to drive. You can get into trouble with the police zipping around with this SPORT utility. Fit and finish is great. Im a big fan of VWs electric steering, very smooth. I like the nylon seats they warm up quick, very comfortable. Visibility is good. I enjoy the sunroof, cant wait for summer. AWD has been been great this winter.

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  A Fair Review - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By JD - November 27 - 4:26 am

  I actually went back to VW when buying the Tiguan. My first VW, a GTI VR6, had a lot of small problems and a major problem with the computer. However, nothing comes close to German style and especially the interior comfort and technology. My favorite feature is the sunroof which allows for a very nice view of the sky for both front and rear passengers. The gas mileage is respectable compared to the Mercury Mountaineer I traded in. The response to the accelerator is also respectable.

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  flawed - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By flawed - November 21 - 3:16 am

  after 3900 miles, my EPC warning light appeared on the dash. Acceleration was lost and the car sporadically regained power, only to lose it again. A few days later the Engine Malfunction icon also appeared. The car is now destined for a few days in the shop.

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  fun to drive but will cost you! - 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By nymom2 - November 16 - 3:01 am

  We have leased our Tiguan for almost a year and it is a very fun car to drive - zippy, responsive, excellent in the snow. Our biggest complaint is the gas millage. Our 2003 Honda Pilot needs less refueling. Also, the cloth interior get messy very easily. It sounds like a petty complaint but the car always needs vacuuming. After four months we had an electrical issue that was covered under the warranty. It made me glad we leased, not purchased the car. The trunk is not big enough to hold a set of golf clubs. My husband finds the drivers seat uncomfortable. As far a styling goes, this is not a poor mans Audi A5 but a souped- up VW Golf.

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  Our 2nd Tiguan - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Matt - October 15 - 12:20 am

  This is our 2nd Tiguan, which we picked up just in time to use the 4-Motion against New England snow. Incredible! Very sure-footed in this slop, & a real hoot to drive. The kids love the panoramic moon-roof... it is about as much exposure one can have to the sky without getting a convertible. The Tiguans Xenon headlamps have peripheral sidelights which activate and illuminate the sides of the road whenever you make a turn. Very nice to have on twisting roads, sharp corners, dark parking lots, city streets, etc. The Tiguan is also a very quiet car for the small SUV/CUV segment. No high pitched whine & road-noise like I experienced with the Toyota RAV4 and CRV.

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  9 Months old and outside door handle breaks off. - 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By gjoes - October 3 - 4:52 am

  Well this is irritating and one of the reasons I had reservations about buying a VW, weird little things breaking, knobs falling off, etc. I had a new Jetta in 1998 and my trips to the dealership for little things were endless, including the starter going ont within 6 months. I was assured all of these issues were taken care of, and obviously theyre not. Once the door handle was in my hand (not on the car) I noticed that it is actually plastic. Plastic? Hmmmm. I should have kept my Jeep.

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  Fantastic CUV - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By simshawk - September 12 - 5:00 pm

  After 17k miles, and 1+ years on the road, I am still loving this vehicle. Great performance, excellent braking /handling, and fantastic ride. Gas mileage could better, but I have a bit of a heavy foot. Elderly friend said it was smoother and quieter than her Lincoln. Wife likes it as much as her daily driver, BMW 328i. Passengers are continually amazed at the rear seat roominess. An absolute blast to drive, a GTI with room for hunting and fishing gear...

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  Transmission problems fixed - 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By tom365 - August 26 - 12:31 pm

  Earlier I wrote a review for the 2012 Tuguan and severely criticized the transmission shift pattern. At the time it deserved the criticism but I am happy to report that VW has issued a software update to the Transmission Control Module. The update has fixed the problem. Hats off to VW for listening to its customers, acknowledging a problem and actually fixing it.

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  Fast, Fun and Fuel Economy - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By VWFan - August 24 - 3:50 pm

  I looked at many vehicles from sedans to SUVs before deciding on the Tiguan to replace by Pilot (including the new Pilot). I decided sitting a little higher in traffic and all-wheel drive were important - hence my choice of another SUV. The Tiguan is fantastic -- quick acceleration, fun to drive and fuel economy of 28.5 mpg average on my first 2 tanks of regular gas. I choose the SEL for the added features and am not disappointed that I did. There is lots of room, and as a big guy I appreciate that. The back is tight for 3 adults, but would be fine for shorter distances - a luxury ride for 2 in the back. I am looking forward to better mpg, and am very satisfied with my Tiguan!