2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Test Drive Review: A Cut Above Average
Since the Volkswagen Tiguan got a new lease of life with a third row added for front-wheel-drive models, sales of the stylish compact crossover rose dramatically. In a bid to keep up the momentum, Volkswagen has given the Tiguan a hefty facelift for 2022 and added some essential standard features to keep it up to date with tech-savvy competition from brands like Hyundai and Kia as well as segment stalwarts like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Power comes from just one source; Volkswagen's tried-and-tested 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Tiguan's unique selling point over the competition in the segment is having a third row of seating; however, if you opt for all-wheel-drive, you'll have to be content with the traditional five-seater layout. Either way, the Tiguan is a useful family and commuter car that's dipping a toe in the premium segment, particularly in the higher trim levels.
2022 Tiguan Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 186.1 in | 109.9 in | 66.4 in | 72.4 in | 62.2 in | 61.9 in | 3,765.0 lbs |
2022 Tiguan Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
Even in its sportier R-Line trim levels, the Tiguan doesn't convince as a performance vehicle, but the only complaint is that Volkswagen insists on calling it sporty. It's unnecessary as Tiguan holds up as a strong and stylish family, commuter crossover without trying to apply an extra level over the top. The ride is smooth around town and takes the edges off of even California's most unkempt and roughest freeways. The steering is quick and direct for the segment and more generous with its feedback than most. That doesn't make the Tiguan sporty, it makes it a great little hustler around town and a little more interesting on a tight back road than your typical family hauler. The brakes aren't at the same level, though. They're a little soft and spongey but still don't lack stopping power. Instead, we're going to call that a positive if you care about passenger comfort and like to drive smoothly.
Volkswagen has extracted an extra mile per gallon out of the four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which goes a little way to make up for the engine's lack of vigor. Overall, though, the balance of power and driving finesse is a cut above what most people need or want in a family hauler or commuter car, and that's a good thing.
2022 Tiguan Interior
2022 Tiguan Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 7 Years / 100,000 Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 2 Years / 20,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|
| 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan A Good SUV?
The Volkswagen Tiguan was already one of our top picks for a compact crossover, but with its new styling and updated standard feature set, it's a solid contender at the top with Toyota's refreshed RAV4. The center display is small if you look at the numbers, but the Digital Cockpit takes some of the pressure off of a center-mounted display, so we didn't find that frustrating. In terms of day-to-day driving, we can't find a deal-breaker when putting it up against higher-trim competition like the Honda CR-V. The Mazda CX-5 is a nicer place to sit, but the Tiguan has a technological edge. The most comparable compact crossover in terms of technology and ride comfort is Hyundai's Santa Fe, which is the one we suspect most people interested in the Tiguan will be cross-shopping against. It's technically a little larger, but as far as three-row compact SUVs go, there really isn't a long list to pick from. Our biggest note with regards to the Tiguan is that if you're buying in this segment for performance, look elsewhere, as Mazda, Kia, and other brands all offer more in that department.
2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Comparisons
2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs Volkswagen Atlas
Finding itself in the midsize category, the Atlas is a larger vehicle than the Tiguan. It's unsurprisingly pricier, beginning at $33,475 and going up to over $50k for the most expensive model. By comparison, the most expensive Tiguan is $36,595. Essentially, the Atlas is the one to go for if you want more of everything, be it power, space, or luxury. Its base 2.0-liter turbo-four makes 235 hp, more than the Tiguan's 184 hp. There's also an Atlas V6 with 276 hp. Behind every seating row, the Atlas trounces the Tiguan in terms of cargo capacity. Its third row is also a lot less cramped than that of the Tiguan's. But if you'll only be using the third row sparingly and are on a tighter budget, a well-equipped Tiguan doesn't feel cheap or nasty alongside the Atlas. There's no winner or loser here - simply pick the VW SUV that best suits your needs.
2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs Mazda CX-5
Starting at $25,900, the CX-5 begins at almost exactly the same price as the Tiguan. However, these are two rather different crossovers. Whereas the Tiguan prioritizes practicality with its third seating row and excellent cargo space, the CX-5 is a better performer and the nicer vehicle to sit in and drive. The base CX-5 isn't turbocharged but is faster than the Tiguan, while the CX-5 Turbo will leave the Tiguan eating its dust with its 256-hp engine. The Mazda handles as well as anything else in this segment, and it looks lovely inside and out too. The Tiguan fights back with better cargo space and the ability to carry seven. This is a close call and depends on how much you need seven seats. If you don't, go with the Mazda.