The Volkswagen Tiguan has carved a niche for itself in the competitive crossover SUV market. While it may not scream excitement, the 2024 Tiguan continues to impress with its well-rounded nature, consistently earning positive 2024 Tiguan Reviews for its competence across various fronts. It’s the automotive equivalent of a straight-B student – reliably good, if not exceptionally outstanding in any single category. This balanced approach appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers, making it a popular choice despite lacking a definitive “wow” factor. Let’s delve into what makes the 2024 Tiguan a compelling, albeit understated, option.
Exterior Design and Appeal
The Tiguan’s design language is unmistakably Volkswagen – clean, conservative, and perhaps a touch familiar. Having maintained a similar silhouette for about a decade, the 2024 model doesn’t break new ground stylistically. However, its timeless German design still holds a certain appeal. The tested R-Line trim adds subtle sporty enhancements, aiming for a more premium aesthetic reminiscent of its Audi cousins. For those seeking understated elegance, the Tiguan’s exterior remains a handsome and inoffensive choice in the crowded crossover segment.
Interior Space, Comfort, and Technology
Inside, the 2024 Tiguan provides a genuinely spacious cabin, accommodating passengers comfortably in both rows. While rear seat cushions are noted to be somewhat flat, potentially impacting long-journey comfort, the overall passenger space is generous for the class. Material quality has seen improvements over previous years, lending a touch of near-luxury feel, although it still trails behind segment leaders like the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 in outright premiumness.
Volkswagen’s integration of haptic-touch controls is a point of contention. The Tiguan adopts these touch-sensitive sliders on the steering wheel, which some reviewers find less user-friendly than traditional buttons. Another noted quirk is the overly sensitive and loud seatbelt and door opening alerts specifically for the driver, a minor annoyance that seems disproportionate compared to passenger alerts. On a brighter note, the central infotainment display remains intuitive and easy to operate. The cabin also maintains a respectable level of quietness at highway speeds. In essence, the interior prioritizes practicality and space, offering a functional, if not particularly exciting, environment – a significant step up from more austere interiors found in competitors like the Toyota RAV4.
Engine Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Performance from the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is adequate but not exhilarating. Reaching 60 mph in around 8.5 seconds places it squarely within the average range for the segment. Some reviews point out a slight lack of smoothness in throttle response from a standstill, requiring a careful balance to avoid either sluggish starts or unintended jolts. While the Tiguan’s transmission avoids overly aggressive upshifting issues seen in some other VW models, the overall driving experience is geared towards normalcy rather than excitement. Fuel economy figures hover around 25 MPG combined, which is described as “fine” – neither exceptional nor particularly poor, but middling given the vehicle’s modest performance and relatively heavy 4,000-pound weight.
Driving Experience and Handling
On the road, the 2024 Tiguan prioritizes comfort and ease of driving over dynamic engagement. Its light steering makes maneuvering effortless, particularly in urban environments and during longer drives. Despite being light, the steering maintains stability and composure at highway speeds, a praised aspect. However, the Tiguan isn’t designed for spirited driving on winding roads. While it maintains composure and available 4Motion all-wheel drive provides confident traction in various conditions, it lacks the driving fun offered by more dynamically focused competitors, notably the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50.
Despite lacking standout features, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan’s consistent competence across key areas positions it as a solid, above-average choice in the compact SUV segment. Its competitive pricing, often undercutting higher trims of rivals like the Toyota RAV4, further strengthens its value proposition. For buyers prioritizing driving thrills or overtly luxurious interiors, Mazda’s offerings might be more appealing. However, for those seeking a well-rounded, spacious, and German-engineered crossover without unnecessary flash, the Tiguan remains a compelling option. Its enduring popularity speaks to its ability to meet the needs of a broad range of consumers seeking a reliable and practical SUV.
Pros: Spacious interior, consistent performance across categories.
Cons: Engine performance is unremarkable, haptic steering wheel controls are not universally liked.
