2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Review: A Dramatic Leap Forward
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan has arrived in Canadian dealerships, boasting bolder styling, enhanced technology, and increased power. Designed to compete with top-selling vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the new Tiguan is a significant improvement over its predecessors.
Design and Features
The Tiguan’s exterior features attractive lines with a bolder grille and new lighting treatment, including a slim horizontal LED light bar with an illuminated VW logo. The top Highline R-Line trim, tested by the author, comes with a unique Monterey blue pearl coat, available for $500. The interior has seen a dramatic leap forward, with a sophisticated and spacious cabin featuring high-tech elements such as a 10.25-inch digital cockpit and a new central infotainment system with a standard 12.9-inch display. The top trim boasts a massive 15-inch touchscreen display with vivid graphics and sharp colors.
Performance
The 2025 Tiguan is available in four all-wheel-drive trims: Trendline, Comfortline, Comfortline R-Line Black Edition, and Highline R-Line. It starts at $36,495, before $2,200 for freight and pre-delivery inspection. The tested Highline R-Line trim rings in at $47,495, plus freight. The Tiguan is powered by a revised turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive come standard.
Driving Experience
During a nearly 160-kilometer drive on a mix of mountain roads and highways, the Tiguan felt stable, secure, and composed. The all-wheel-drive system performed well on rain-slicked roads, keeping the SUV firmly planted. The sport mode gave the Tiguan a GTI-like feel, although the eco and comfort modes were less spirited. The SUV has shed 77 kilograms and is more powerful than the previous generation, while also being slightly more fuel-efficient, with a rated fuel economy of 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers.
Technology and Safety
The Tiguan is loaded with safety and convenience technology, including 10 airbags, automatic high beam control, side assist blind spot monitor, and travel assist with adaptive cruise control. The top trim features a Harman Kardon premium 12-speaker audio system with subwoofer, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, and a head-up display.
Cargo and Practicality
The Tiguan offers 750 liters of cargo space, expanding to 1,668 liters with the second-row seats folded. The gear selector has been moved to the steering column, making room for an eight-liter center console.
Verdict
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan represents a significant improvement in design, technology, and performance. With its enhanced features and capabilities, it is well-positioned to compete in the crowded compact SUV segment.
