VW Tiguan driving impressions – Is it the best family car?
We drove the new VW Tiguan to find out if the SUV is still as good as its predecessor.
The new Volkswagen Tiguan takes all the things that were good about the old model and improves them a little. It's spacious, well-equipped, and versatile, and it ticks a lot of boxes if you're looking for a family SUV.
The Tiguan's new design is understated but impactful, with sleek LED headlights and a modernised all-over black panel at the front, paired with a similar light bar at the rear. While it's undeniably stylish, it's not the most elegant option compared to more flashy alternatives like the Kia Sportage. Think of elegant understatement rather than sensational drama.
Inside, the Tiguan is based on VW's electric models such as the ID4 and has a 12.9-inch touchscreen as standard. The interface is smartphone-inspired, with home screens, widgets, and shortcuts, but the climate controls on the touchscreen are a bit fiddly. The materials feel high-quality, with plenty of soft-touch plastics, although a BMW X1 comes out on top when it comes to luxury. Thankfully, VW has abandoned the much-criticized touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel in favor of real controls.
The Tiguan shines with its space. The 652-liter trunk outperforms most competitors and allows you to easily store strollers, suitcases and sports equipment. The rear seats are split in a 40:20:40 ratio, can be moved and folded down and have a clever centre armrest with practical cup holders. Isofix dots, wide-opening rear doors and well thought-out features such as felt-lined storage compartments underline its family-friendliness. Whether for vacation or the way to school, the Tiguan is there for you.
The Tiguan is currently available with petrol and diesel engines, but also as a plug-in hybrid with a longer range than competitors such as the Kia Sportage plug-in hybrid. The plug-in version is particularly suitable for company car drivers, as they benefit from the tax advantages and have lower operating costs with regular charging.
Driving the Tiguan is pleasant, if not exciting. In the city, it is manoeuvrable, with light steering and suspension that cushions bumps well. On the highway it is cultivated, but road noise can creep in, especially with the larger wheels. On winding roads, it is well on track, but the light steering lacks the feedback for an engaged driving experience. Comfort rather than sportiness is its strength.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is an extremely practical and sophisticated family SUV, ideal for those who value space, sophistication and ease of use. However, it is more expensive than competitors such as the Kia Sportage or the Skoda Karoq, and its understated exterior may not appeal to everyone. For families who need a capable all-rounder, it's a solid choice. The best? Maybe not – but very, very well.