LOOKS
Americans like to have extra space in their vehicles; it’s the reason many European automakers have to rethink their designs if they want to succeed in the States. We’re not driving little Fiats down narrow European alleyways; it’s big cars on big freeways here.
The Tiguan grows in length by 10.6 inches for the rebooted 2018 model, and adds 58 percent more cargo space. It has become one of the largest available smaller SUVs due to this transformation.
Exterior design is actually quite attractive for the segment, with some distinct side lines and window shapes.
The third-row option is new for 2018 on the Tiguan, but it’s such as tight squeeze that it’s not really much of an advantage to have it. Only little kids can fit there, and they’ll be pretty cramped too. The first two rows are very roomy, though, and you get plenty of room in storage bins.
Both the second and third rows fold down for increased storage space, and the leatherette seating in the vehicle was quite comfy even on longer rides.
The Tiguan also offers: 17-inch alloy wheels with all season tires; LED daytime running lights; heated power folding mirrors; and heated front seats
HOW’S THE RIDE?
The 2018 Tiguan’s only powerplant is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4 cylinder engine; paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Official numbers are 184 horsepower and 221 lb.-ft. of torque.
You can opt for the 4Motion all-wheel drive system, and the remainder of Tiguans are FWD vehicles. It features a four-wheel independent suspension, and provided a smooth but not overly powerful ride (Acceleration isn’t its strong suit, to be kind).
On the plus side, it does handle quite well and is responsive to driver input. The Tiguan was quiet inside in terms of containing road noise, but the engine is a bit loud/whiny when getting up to speed.
TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY
The Tiguan features impressive overall tech and safety offerings for the class.
You get an array of airbags all around, 3-point safety belts, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control and a tire pressure monitor system.
It’s equipped with a rear-view camera, and available safety features include Forward Collision Warning, Auto Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Traffic Alert. You also get keyless access and push-button start.
In the center console is an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring access to AM radio, FM radio, HD radio, CD player, USB inputs, AUX input, and a trial subscription to satellite radio. Bluetooth connectivity is available. The look of the system is attractive, and voice controls work well, with occasional hiccups.
The experience with entertainment and other controls in the Tiguan is about mid-pack for the segment. There are some other automakers’ systems that exceed VW in terms of user-friendliness, but there are others that are much worse. Seems to be improving though, so VW is headed in the right direction here.
MPG
Official fuel mileage numbers on the 2018 Tiguan are 22 city/27 highway/24 combined. I averaged 21.5 mpg. Overall these numbers are not segment leaders, but still strong.
PRICE, BOTTOM LINE.
My test vehicle was just over $30,000; base price starts about $25K. These prices are in line with the competition in this segment, even a bit lower than some of the competitors.
By adding a more roomy interior and making the Tiguan hold up to 7 people, VW now has a second strong SUV in its lineup, in addition to the Atlas. The roomier second row will help it compete as people cross-shop for SUVs, and it will no doubt help the TIguan as VW works to boost its share of SUV sales.
And in the end, if you buy the 2018 Tiguan it will be more for the design of it and space it offers, not for power.
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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.
