Is the Volkswagen Tiguan a Good SUV?
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a well-rounded compact SUV excelling in everyday tasks. It offers excellent space for people and cargo, pleasant driving manners and an upscale ambiance in top trims. The new 2026 SEL R-Line Turbo trim aims to further enhance the experience with more power.
How Does the Volkswagen Tiguan Compare With Other Compact SUVs?
The Tiguan is a class leader in occupant comfort and space, with competitive cargo room. It stands out by offering numerous upscale features at reasonable prices. While rivals like the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester offer fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains, the U.S.-spec Tiguan currently does not.
For 2025, the Tiguan received substantial updates, including 12.9- or 15-inch infotainment touchscreens, a console-mounted volume knob, an available head-up display and available massaging front seats. A 10.25-inch digital instrument panel is standard across all trims.
The base turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower. New for 2026, the SEL R-Line Turbo trim offers a more potent 268-hp, turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder in addition to the 2025 R-Line’s standard 20-inch wheels, upgraded seating and other upscale features. The Tiguan is now exclusively a two-row, five-seat vehicle, as the optional third-row seat was discontinued with last year’s redesign.
How Spacious Is the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan’s Interior?
The Tiguan offers excellent occupant space in both front and back even for taller individuals. Front seats and the steering column provide broad adjustability. Backseat space is generous, and wide rear-door openings facilitate easy entry/exit and child-seat installation. Cargo space is competitive, featuring handy bag hooks and release levers for flat-folding rear seatbacks. Small-items storage is par for the course, with a decently sized center console and door pockets.
How Nice Is the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan’s Interior?
The Tiguan’s interior is quite nice for a mainstream compact SUV. The top SEL R-Line trims boast a convincingly luxurious cabin with features like quilted leather upholstery, real wood dashboard trim, and soft-touch surfaces. Seat comfort is a strong point; the SEL R-Lines’ multifunction massaging front seats are a rare feature in mainstream SUVs, along with heated and ventilated front seats with a Seat Balance function that allows the user to adjust the proportion of heat or ventilation directed to the seatback or bottom cushion. Heated outboard rear seats and rear climate controls are also standard on SEL R-Lines.
How Is the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan’s Technology?
The standard digital gauge cluster and generously sized touchscreens are welcome features. While some touch-sensitive controls for climate and volume require acclimation, a console-mounted volume knob provides an alternative, and essential climate controls remain fixed on the touchscreen.
How Does the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan Drive?
The Tiguan offers a pleasant and relaxed driving personality with a comfortable ride, even with 20-inch wheels. Steering feel is nicely weighted, and the cabin is quiet.
The standard 201-hp engine delivers power smoothly, but acceleration is tuned for a casual response. For drivers seeking more zest, the SEL R-Line Turbo with its 268-hp engine aims to offer a spicier experience by providing quicker acceleration.
Should You Buy a 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan is a well-rounded daily driver that excels in occupant space and offers upscale features. The introduction of the 268-hp SEL R-Line Turbo addresses the so-so acceleration of the standard engine, providing a more dynamic option for those seeking it. The Tiguan’s merits should place it high on shopping lists provided its unconventional controls are not a deterrent.
