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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  Love it, but ... - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By bix - August 18 - 9:56 am

  I love driving this car, steering is very easy, automatic transmission comfy and economic, yet with nice acceleration. Baggage space is not so big, but in the interior, there is plenty of space for passengers, compared to vehicle size. What is bothering me is that not only human, but also martens enjoy this car as there is a plenty of space between the engine and car hood and martens keep biting pressure tubes from turbo. Yesterday I found that when accelerating slightly, a deep sound, like a short deep silent bang comes from under the engine.

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  Love it! - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By VW Guy - July 6 - 5:46 pm

  I love everything about this car except the gas mileage and the premium fuel. It handles like a dream, smooth ride, beautiful to look at, has a cabin that feels like its from a much larger vehicle and feels like its a BMW or Mercedes (for 1/2 the price). Im always been a fan of VWs and this car is no exception. Loved the 94 Golf, 00 Jetta, and 03 Golf. I kept my Golf I love it so much. I expect the Tiguan to be part of the family for many years to come - unless they sell a diesel Tiguan at a reasonable price :-) Id reccomend it and buy it again in a NY minute!

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  2010 - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Brian M - June 26 - 12:23 pm

  At first skeptical, but after a few weeks I realized this is a great car that really fits my needs. The legroom all around is great. Truly a 4 passenger car, not 5. Unbelievably, fun to drive. Cabin is very quiet and when that passing power is needed , it really delivers. After the initial break in period, of 1000 miles, the car seemed to get even better. When compared to other small SUVs, I step on the gas and the Tiguan Wolfsburg really moves, not just engine noise.

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  Just what I needed - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Crasher - June 22 - 8:43 am

  I needed an SUV to haul dogs, get mileage, have clearance to get in my driveway and fit me (6-1, 280 lbs). Leased this on the "sign and drive" program and have no worries, low cost for the length of my lease except gas. Once you figure out how to manipulate the seats, you can pack a ton of crap in this thing. Very easy to drive, nice styling, stops on a dime and has good passing power. Only complaint is a bit too much road noise. I figured since I had the S that the loaded out models may have better sound deadening. Good little SUV.

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  pricy/ fun/ some improvements - 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By besmooth - June 12 - 12:37 am

  upscale fit and finish fun to drive great acceleration transmission droning sounds test drive it for a while

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  Great until it gets cold outside! DO NOT BUY - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By tiguanowner4 - June 8 - 2:41 am

  My power sterring does not work. Thankfully this has not happened as I drive down the highway. However I am left to cross my fingers and pray my car will work when I get in it. I have had my 2010 Tiguan in the shop 5 times in the past 4 months. It always happens when it is cold outside. Perhaps they should not be selling these in Alberta then!!! My mom is also experiencing the same problem on the same day with her 2010 Tiguan! She has also had her Tiguan in the shop for the same amount of times...big surprise. It happens when the weather is colder than -25 which happens a lot here. Canadian buyers BEWARE:(

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  Our Best Choice! - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Ken - June 2 - 5:06 am

  We test drove all the small SUVs out there and when we drove the Tiguan there was no comparison. First off I noticed the power was better than even the competitions V-6 models. The fit and finish is exceptional...I love German engineering! The handling is great, the cabin is very quiet, the sunroof is nothing short of spectacular. We bought this vehicle for my wife and I usually drive a BMW but love any opportunity to drive the Tiguan. I dont have to use the manual shift feature as this transmission shifts beautifully in the automatic shift mode. Had this vehicle 3 months now and am looking forward to driving it this winter. Just plain love the fun drive!

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  Fun to drive - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By RedSox - April 30 - 8:06 pm

  I have only had my Tiguan for one month, but it has been a lot of fun to drive. Gas mileage has been good at 23 mpg. Fit and finish is the best of any car I have owned.

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  Pacific VW Perfection - 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Brian - April 26 - 10:01 pm

  Had the most seamless experience using Edmunds then shopping my preferences to multiple dealers. Pacific VW met my needs perfectly and had me in and out of the showroom in 2 hours. It was awesome

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  My VW Tijuan is a nightmare - 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By myvwnightmare - April 23 - 7:30 pm

  I purchased my VW Tijuan in 2012. Brand new. Right off the lot. It has been nothing but a nightmare. Some but not all of the problems: The driver door screw fell off. Yes, you heard that right. The door was hanging with one screw. The breaks fell on at least two occasions. The rest of the times the breaks are very noisy. The ABS breaks go on - by them self. The sun visor fell on my face twice. The first time while I was driving on the FWY, The second time while I was driving in my neighborhood, Scratching my face, poking me right under my eye, then my nose, then lending on my wrist. The heater is very noisy. VW blames me for all of the problems.I will write more later.