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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  3 Tiggs - 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By VW4ever - April 14 - 10:00 am

  We have had an 09,10, and 11, Fantastic car. Very Sharp, Sporty and Comfy. Hard to find one but its early in the model year. I think it has finally caught on that it is an awsome vehicle. Did marvelous in last yrs blizzard. Its really not that bad on gas when you consider the power it has! Buy one you want regret it!

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  Only 200 miles in... - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By prufrock69 - March 18 - 8:00 am

  ...and its already in the shop. Evidently the radiator fan doesnt come on when the car is idling. Its quite a sight to see the engine temperature gauge go from 190 to 260 within 3 minutes. Another example of VWs world renown "quality" or just an isolated incident? Who knows. Just be aware. Up to that point we were waiting to be towed to the nearest dealership, I would have to agree with everyone elses initial impressions. It seems like a quality car, handles like a much smaller car, and is just a pleasure to drive and use. The tight design of the exterior really belies what is a comfortable interior.

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  It IS fun to drive! - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By KPW - February 26 - 5:10 pm

  Never thought Id be writing a review about a car and writing that its fun to drive but it IS! I used to drive a Ford Explorer. Of course it was bigger and had more room but it also took a heck of a lot more gas. I was pleased with the gas mileage for an AWD on this car-I go double the miles that I used to with the Explorer. Its got about 5k miles so far and has been through everything New England could throw at it already since February (snow, ice, flood, heat waves, etc). AWD worked excellent. I was concerned about this after driving such a big SUV for so long. This site helped me a lot.

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  Love the Tiguan! - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Jay - February 23 - 2:26 am

  Just picked up my wifes 2009 Alpine Gray tiguan with nav and panoramic roof. Wow! This vehicle is fast . Stops on a dime. And is surprisingly comfortable. My wife keeps referring to it as "awesome". She loves it . It is a gti in disguise! In my opinion. Build quality is superb! VW and Audi have a winner on their hands in my opinion. Not for the faint of heart! A must drive before you buy anything else!

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  Some things great-some not so great..... - 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By pamicat - February 14 - 9:16 am

  Owned 3 mo./3000 mi in gld-metallic. Researched all SUVs in class; was wowed by Tiguan. Interior styling in class by itself; handling/comfort exceptional. Cabin durability very impressive. Passengers rave about roominess/ styling. Ride not smooth on freeways, rather bumpy at times. Novelty retractable screen panel under sunroof does not fully block overhead sun glare. “Trunk” storage tray on website never materialized - rear underneath storage very ltd. Headrest has no tilt adjustment (only vertical) and tips head in uncomfortable position if you lean back. Miss my Acura’s Bose stereo; the sound of the system is 6 of 10 at best. Main center console storage could have been expanded.

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  BMW light - 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Darin - February 4 - 10:05 am

  As much space, comfort, and technology as the BMW, Audi, and Mercedes in its class, but with a significantly reduced price. We prefer German engineering, but it doesnt feel like we moved out of a luxury car class.

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  My GTIs Big Brother - 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By npsgti - January 19 - 1:33 am

  Just got the 13 Tiguan S w/panoramic sunroof & mat kit for my wife and we love this car. Small CUV that handles like a sport sedan with all tried and true German automotive attributes: sophisticated & understated interior and exterior styling, satisfying performance & handling and rock solid build. After driving both the S and SE, the S is already so well equipped incl. leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, MFD display, bluetooth etc. that we couldnt justify the extra $5k or so for leatherette and lower profile tires. Great ride, great family car, excellent lease deals to be had.

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  Upscale features for a compact SUV - 2015 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By mds - January 18 - 1:11 pm

  I have owned my 2015 Tiguan for about 1 month and find it quiet, smooth and nimble. My biggest complaint is the seriously under powered stereo system on the SE with Appearance model. There is an upgrade to the stereo system but only for the SEL and R line option packages. The instrument panel is also very dated. The gauges and instruments look just like the 2010 Jetta! In a world where electronics technology is constantly evolving and getting better, the stereo system and instrument panel are antiquated and need the immediate attention of the VW engineers.

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  Six letters....DSG & TDI - 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By Rickallen - January 18 - 10:00 am

  I was initially impressed with the amount of room in this car. Im 64" and to have the drivers seat comfortable and be able to tolerate sitting behind myself is rare. Drawbacks: One, this car needs a DSG transmission. The 6-speed auto feels elastic and "gummy". Getting back in my Jetta TDI with DSG felt like night and day. Two, the TDI engine would be the perfect combination of torque and efficiency for this size, yet its not available. With DSG and TDI combined this would be an amazing vehicle, yet VW wont sell it here. A real shame because without those the car is mediocre. Ill gladly pay the cost diff to have them. Listening, VW?

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  What more could you ask for - 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan
  By TheTopShelf - January 9 - 6:33 pm

  Ive only had this vehicle for a week or two but I am amazed by the overall package of this vehicle. I did a lot of research and test drove a lot of vehicles in this class (Equinox, CR-V, RAV-4, Edge, CX-7) and none could compare to the Tiguan. It might be a little on the pricey side but trust me, you are getting your moneys worth.