In one of the most competitive vehicle segments on the market, standing out as a compact SUV is no easy task. Yet, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan continues to carve a niche with its European design flair, comfortable ride, and one rare feature in this class — an optional third row of seating.
The Tiguan blends versatility, a premium-feeling interior, and smooth driving dynamics, giving it a unique place in a crowded field. It’s not the most fuel-efficient or tech-forward SUV, but it offers a driving experience and flexibility that families and commuters alike will appreciate.
Positives
- Comfortable ride quality
- Upscale interior with roomy second-row seating
- Available third-row seats — rare in the segment
Considerations
- Fuel economy trails rivals
- Third-row seat and cargo space are tight
- Throttle response can be touchy
Verdict
The 2025 Tiguan brings subtle luxury and European dynamics to the small SUV market. It’s one of the few options with seven-passenger capability, though the third row is best reserved for kids. A smooth ride and refined interior give it wide appeal, but competing models offer stronger efficiency and powertrain options.
As this generation of the Tiguan winds down ahead of an expected redesign, Volkswagen upgrades its safety and tech features, making its ID Drive driver assistance suite standard across all trims. The base S trim gets updated infotainment, wireless charging, and more modern touches like rain-sensing wipers and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Trims and Pricing (2025)
| Trim | Starting Price | Key Highlights |
| S | $29,855 | 17-inch wheels, 6.5” infotainment, 3rd row (FWD) |
| SE | $32,555 | 8” touchscreen, power liftgate, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| SE R-Line Black | $35,555 | Blacked-out styling, 19” wheels, sunroof, ambient lighting |
| SEL R-Line | $39,855 | AWD, leather, navigation, surround-view camera, Fender audio |
Best Pick: The SE offers the best value with upgraded tech, comfort features, and under-$35K pricing.
Engine and Driving Experience
All 2025 Tiguans are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivering 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive is available (or standard on the SEL R-Line).
- 0–60 mph: Around 8.8 seconds
- Tuned suspension offers above-average handling for the class
- Not as powerful as rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-50, but more refined
Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates)
| Drivetrain | City | Highway | Combined |
| FWD | 23 mpg | 30 mpg | 26 mpg |
| AWD | 21 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg |
The Tiguan’s efficiency is adequate but lags behind hybrids like the Honda CR-V Hybrid (43/36 mpg) and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (41/38 mpg).
Interior and Cargo
The Tiguan’s interior design leans toward understated luxury with soft-touch surfaces and a clean, logical layout. It feels more premium than some competitors — especially in upper trims.
- 3rd-row available only on FWD models
- 2nd-row space is excellent for adults
- 3rd-row is cramped, best for occasional child use
| Seating Configuration | Cargo Behind Seats | Max Cargo |
| 3-Row (FWD) | 12 cu ft | 65.7 cu ft |
| 2-Row (AWD) | 37.6 cu ft | 73.5 cu ft |
Compared to:
- CR-V: 39.3 cu ft / 76.5 cu ft
- Kia Sportage: 39.6 cu ft / 74.1 cu ft
- Mazda CX-50: 31.4 cu ft / 56.3 cu ft
Infotainment & Connectivity
- S Trim: 6.5” touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- SE & Up: 8” display with wireless smartphone integration
- SEL R-Line: 10.25” display, navigation, premium audio
The system is responsive and intuitive, with Bluetooth, USB-C charging, and a user-friendly wireless charging pad. Remote features via smartphone app arrive mid-year.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2025 Tiguan includes Volkswagen’s full ID Drive safety suite, standard across all trims.
Standard Features:
- Forward collision warning + automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring + rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keeping assist + adaptive cruise control
- Emergency Assist (automated stop if driver is unresponsive)
SEL R-Line adds:
- Semi-automated parking
- Surround-view camera
- Parking sensors
Crash Ratings:
- NHTSA: 4 out of 5 stars (2024 model)
- IIHS: Top Safety Pick+ (2023 carryover)
Volkswagen Tiguan vs. the Competition
| Model | Base Price | MPG (FWD) | Max Cargo | Hybrid Option? |
| VW Tiguan | $29,855 | 23/30 | 73.5 cu ft |  |
| Honda CR-V | $29,500 | 28/34 | 76.5 cu ft |  |
| Kia Sportage | $28,415 | 25/33 | 74.1 cu ft | |
| Mazda CX-50 | $30,300 | 24/30 | 56.3 cu ft | |
| Hyundai Tucson | $28,585 | 26/33 | 74.8 cu ft | |
The 2025 Tiguan remains a unique pick for those needing three rows in a compact SUV, offering European sophistication, great interior space, and a smooth ride. But if fuel efficiency or advanced tech is your top priority, the CR-V or Sportage hybrids may better suit your needs.
Want to see real-time prices from local Volkswagen dealers? Head to Quotes.EverymanDriver.com to compare deals in your zip code on new and used Tiguans and other top-rated SUVs. It’s fast, free, and could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Don’t pay MSRP — check local offers before you buy!
