Volkswagen Tiguan (08 on) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 06 November 2009
Volkswagen's first small off-roader is neatly styled, well equipped and powered by some impressive engines - it needs to be, as it's pitted against some of the best 4x4s around including the BMW X1, Honda CR-V and Ford Kuga. It looks similar to the Golf hatchback, although most of the main components are unique to the Tiguan, while inside it's well built, comfortable and there's plenty of room. There's a choice of models with either two or four-wheel drive along with low emissions BlueMotion versions but whatever you choose, the Tiguan is really designed for on road use. However there is the option of an 'Escape' model which is fitted with underbody protection and shorter overhangs for added off-road ability.In June 2011 the Tiguan was given a minor refresh. There were small aesthetic changes to the exterior and interior, while some improvements were also made to the engine range.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£20,345 - £28,060

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Used price range:

£10,134 - £27,060

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Neatly styled, robust interior, comfortable and safe on the move, off-road version available, BlueMotion versions available

Alternatives are better value for money, 1.4 TSI engine feels sluggish

Volkswagen's first small off-roader is neatly styled, well equipped and powered by some impressive engines - it needs to be, as it's pitted against some of the best 4x4s around including the BMW X1, Honda CR-V and Ford Kuga. It looks similar to the Golf hatchback, although most of the main components are unique to the Tiguan, while inside it's well built, comfortable and there's plenty of room. There's a choice of models with either two or four-wheel drive along with low emissions BlueMotion versions but whatever you choose, the Tiguan is really designed for on road use. However there is the option of an 'Escape' model which is fitted with underbody protection and shorter overhangs for added off-road ability.In June 2011 the Tiguan was given a minor refresh. There were small aesthetic changes to the exterior and interior, while some improvements were also made to the engine range.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    4 out of 5

    "A 1.4-litre kicks off the line-up but usually an engine this small would be unsuitable for a car..."

  • Handling

    4 out of 5

    "The Tiguan is designed primarily for driving around town and on the motorway – and this is reflected..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    4 out of 5

    "Thanks to an excellent ride and minimal wind and road noise, all on board should find it..."

  • Practicality

    4.5 out of 5

    "There's an innovative drop-down towbar available on the Tiguan. At the pull of a cord, a tow bar is..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "There are four trim levels in the Tiguan line-up - S, SE, Sport and Escape, and even the entry-level..."

  • Behind the wheel

    4.5 out of 5

    "Anyone who’s previously owned a Volkswagen will instantly be at home behind the wheel of the Tiguan."

Costs

  • Running costs

    3.5 out of 5

    "The Tiguan holds its value as well as other upmarket small off-roaders like the Honda CR-V, but..."

  • Green credentials

    3.5 out of 5

    "The Tiguan performs reasonably well when compared with other small 4x4s and there are Bluemotion..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    4.5 out of 5

    "The off roader was awarded a top five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating, which is very good for a..."

  • Reliability

    4 out of 5

    "The Tiguan uses components from the Golf, with other parts coming the Passat, Phaeton and Touareg –..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3 out of 5

    "The Tiguan is not a cheap buy, especially when compared with the Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V, but..."

  • Buying used

    3.5 out of 5

    "Looking to do some serious off-roading? Then you need to choose an Escape model. Most Tiguans are..."

  • Selling

    4 out of 5

    "Upmarket small 4x4s are highly sought after. The Volkswagen badge is a big pull and to many buyers..."

Gallery

  • Interior Volkswagen Tiguan (08 on)
  • Exterior Volkswagen Tiguan (08 on)
  • Exterior Volkswagen Tiguan (08 on)
  • Exterior Volkswagen Tiguan (08 on)

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Owners' reviews