A compact SUV that mixes European driving dynamics, a roomy cabin and an optional third-row seat is the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. In its class, it is not the most powerful or feature-packed option but offers an all-round driving experience.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine on every 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan produces 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. For those willing to spend extra money, Volkswagen has the optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system although front-wheel drive is standard.
Despite being relatively slow compared to other cars in its class in terms of acceleration, it is sufficiently fast for normal driving activities. The engine generates power that is both smooth and responsive while the gearbox shifts gears effortlessly. Interestingly enough, this car has one of the best handling capabilities among others in its cohort in addition to feeling more sporty than most compact SUVs due to its sharp steering coupled with well-controlled ride.
Fuel Economy
According to EPA estimates the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan achieves up to 26 mpg city/35 mpg highway when equipped with front-wheel drive. On the other hand; all-wheel-drive models will manage slightly lower fuel efficiency figures at 22/30 city/highway MPG+
Inside, Comfort, and Load
Tiguan is diminutive but adequately roomy in terms of comfort. The front seats are comfortable while the back has plenty of legroom for both rows. It can be used rarely by grown-ups because there’s a tight space if you use the optional third-row seat.
The Tiguan has cargo capacity that aligns with other small SUVs in its segment. There is 12.7 cubic feet of storage behind the second row. When the second-row seat is folded flat, this number expands to 37.3 cubic feet. Collapse all seats for maximum cargo capacity of 73.4 cubic feet.
Infotainment System and Features
There’s a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the Tiguan S with most models getting an optional touchscreen measuring 8 inches diagonally. Both systems are intuitive and offer smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto app adaptations. In addition, higher trims get a digital instrument cluster and premium sound system.
Four main trims are available on the new Tiguan for 2020: S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line versions respectively. The base level S trim comes standard with LED headlights, automatic climate control system and rear view camera features among others while added features such as a sunroof, heated seats and a power liftgate come with SE trim levels across all models including SEL R-line vehicles too.
Safety and Reliability
The 2022 Tiguan received a four-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also earned a “Good” rating in all of the IIHS’s crashworthiness tests. The Tiguan comes standard with a good amount of safety features, including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and parking sensors.
The Tiguan’s reliability is predicted to be about average. J.D. Power gives it a rating of 83 out of 100, which is in the middle of the pack for compact SUVs.
Overall
The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan is a good choice for compact SUV shoppers who prioritize a well-rounded driving experience. It offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, a smooth and powerful engine, and sharp handling. However, it’s not the most powerful or feature-rich option in its class, and its reliability is predicted to be about average.
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan:
Pros:
- Spacious cabin with an available third-row seat
- Smooth and powerful engine
- Sharp handling
- Comfortable ride
- User-friendly infotainment system
Cons:
- Not the most powerful option in its class
- Below-average cargo space with the third row in use
- Predicted reliability is about average
- Some interior materials feel cheap
Specifications
2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line 4Motion
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $37,790/$37,790
Options: none
ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve Miller-cycle inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 121 in3, 1984 cm3
Power: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 221 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 13.4-in vented disc/11.8-in vented disc
Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season
255/40R-20 101H M+S
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 109.9 in
Length: 186.1 in
Width: 72.4 in
Height: 66.5 in
Passenger Volume: 100 ft3
Cargo Volume: 38 ft3
Curb Weight: 4005 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 9.1 sec
1/4-Mile: 16.9 sec @ 83 mph
100 mph: 25.9 sec
110 mph: 34.9 sec
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 9.7 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 5.0 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 6.4 sec
Top Speed (C/D est): 125 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 183 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.83 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 26 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 24/21/28 mpg
Photos