The Car Connection Expert Review
Likes
- ID.4 EV design influence
- A real (huge) volume knob
- Great safety credentials
- Upscale interior in top trims
Dislikes
- Tall front end for America
- Touch-based climate controls
- Less cargo space
- Expect middling MPG
Buying tip
The 2025 VW Tiguan seems to be more squarely aimed at American tastes while attempting to outflank more efficient competitors.
What kind of vehicle is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan? What does it compare to?
The Tiguan remains VW’s main people mover with a focus on value and style in a compact crossover package. It competes with everything from the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 to the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan a good SUV?
Well-equipped, spacious, and now packed with premium features, the Tiguan goes for an upscale feel while still aiming for value. The outgoing Tiguan had a TCC Rating of 6.0 out of 10, and we expect the new to improve. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
What's new for the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Everything the light touches, and then some. The 2025 Tiguan marks the third-generation of the model in the U.S., and it’s a complete redesign right down to the chassis. The overall focus is one of a more upscale, EV-like design directly aimed at American tastes.
When the 2025 Tiguan arrives in the U.S. it'll be available in four trims, including S, SE, SE R Line Black, and SEL R Line. VW wouldn’t comment on whether the Peak Edition will return.
The exterior remains conservative and clean, but now features more flowing fender lines and ID.4-like influences in the LED lighting elements including an available full-width LED light bar up front. The latest Tiguan is bolder and more upright with a taller front end, a higher hoodline, and a half-inch wider body. The wheelbase is unchanged but shorter overhangs translate to a 2.1-inch shorter length, but VW hasn’t released final dimensions. Base models look a bit more rugged, while the R Line and R Line Black deliver a sportier look, and the latter features a black roof for a two-tone look. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 20 inches.
Inside, the upright theme continues with a dashboard that looks taller than the outgoing model, which could adversely affect visibility. A 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while a 15.0-inch touchscreen takes over in upper trims. The center console features what might be the world’s largest volume knob that doubles as a drive mode selector and interior atmosphere selector—VW’s fancy way of saying interior ambient lighting color paired with audio settings. The gear selector has been relocated to the steering column. Top-spec trims get American Walnut wood trim and can be optioned with a rich-looking brown and black two-tone interior featuring quilted leather. Base models retain cloth seats.
Every Tiguan has a 2.0-liter turbo-4 under the hood producing 201 hp, an increase of 17 hp. While the torque figure hasn’t been released, VW expects it to carry over at 221 lb-ft. An 8-speed automatic and front-wheel drive come standard and all-wheel drive is available. All-wheel-drive models increase today’s max towing rating of 1,500 pounds to 1,800 pounds. VW said the new Tiguan weighs 170 pounds less than the outgoing model thanks to the use of aluminum in the suspension and more high-strength steel in the body structure.
EPA fuel economy ratings will be released closer to the Tiguan’s launch, but VW expects the updated model to be more efficient than the current model. Today’s Tiguan carries EPA ratings of 25-26 mpg combined, which isn’t segment leading. VW spokespeople said the automaker’s looking at hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, but such versions wouldn’t arrive until the new Tiguan receives a facelift, which would be years from now.
The Tiguan’s cabin shrinks. The third row is gone and every Tiguan features seating for five with two rows of seats. The front row feels as spacious as the current model, and the second row has a a generous 38.7 inches of legroom. Cargo space is also slightly smaller than today’s model, but VW hasn’t released official specs yet. Today’s Tiguan has almost 38 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row.
VW said the 2025 Tiguan is aiming for a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Every Tiguan comes standard with 10 airbags, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, rear cross-traffic alerts, and parking sensors. A surround-view camera system and a head-up display will be available.
How much does the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan cost?
Volkswagen hasn’t said yet. When the 2025 Tiguan arrives it’s unlikely to cost less than the current model, which starts at $30,305 including a $1,425 destination fee. Today VW charges about $1,500 for all-wheel drive. Top-spec models cost just over $40,000 and come standard with all-wheel drive. Those loaded models punch above the competition thanks to features such as 12-way power front seats with a massage function, 12-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system, and three-zone automatic climate control. Heated and cooled front seats along with a heated steering wheel keep things toasty up front, while heated outboard rear seats help keep everyone happy.
Where is the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan made?
Mexico.