The Volkswagen Tiguan has long been a popular choice in the crowded compact SUV segment, and the 2024 model continues this trend. It’s a vehicle that consistently earns solid marks from automotive critics and consumers alike, not by dazzling in any single area, but by delivering a well-rounded performance across the board. This comprehensive approach makes the Tiguan broadly appealing, even if it doesn’t boast segment-leading attributes in terms of excitement or groundbreaking features. Let’s delve into a detailed 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan review to understand why this crossover maintains its dedicated following.
The Tiguan operates with a sense of measured competence, much like a student who consistently achieves B grades. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this approach – a solid performance is commendable. However, some might yearn for a standout quality, a feature that truly excites. While the Tiguan’s design language, reminiscent of Volkswagens from the past decade, might not be cutting-edge, its timeless German aesthetic remains undeniably handsome. The R-Line trim, as featured in this review, adds subtle enhancements, lending a touch of Audi-esque sophistication and an upscale feel to the Tiguan’s overall appearance.
Stepping inside the 2024 Tiguan reveals an interior that has seen noticeable improvements in material quality over the years. Softer touchpoints now contribute to a slightly more premium ambiance. However, it’s important to note that the Tiguan still falls short of class-leading interiors found in rivals like the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50. Cabin space is generous in all dimensions, comfortably accommodating passengers. However, the rear seats, while spacious, could benefit from more contouring, particularly in the seat bottoms, to enhance long-distance comfort. Volkswagen’s integration of haptic-touch controls, including steering wheel sliders, is a less welcome addition. These controls can be finicky and detract from the otherwise user-friendly interface. Another minor annoyance is the rather insistent and loud warning chimes for seatbelts and door openings, especially for the driver’s side, which some may find overly sensitive. On a positive note, the central infotainment display remains intuitive and easy to navigate, and the cabin maintains a respectable level of quietness at highway speeds. Overall, the Tiguan’s interior is practical and spacious, a definite step up from the more austere environments found in competitors like the Toyota RAV4, but it lacks the “wow” factor of some rivals.
Performance-wise, the 2024 Tiguan aligns with the class average, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. However, this engine can feel somewhat underpowered, requiring a leisurely 8.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. Throttle response from a standstill can also be inconsistent, with a tendency to either feel sluggish or overly sensitive, resulting in jerky starts. While Volkswagen pioneered modern turbocharging decades ago, the Tiguan’s engine performance feels less refined than expected. On a brighter note, the Tiguan’s transmission avoids the overly eager upshifting and subsequent downshift hunting that has plagued some recent VW models, indicating an improvement in shift logic. Fuel economy is rated at 25 MPG combined, placing it squarely in the middle of the pack – neither exceptional nor particularly poor, but somewhat disappointing for a vehicle with moderate performance. The Tiguan’s substantial 4,000-pound weight likely contributes to both its average acceleration and fuel consumption.
Out on the road, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan’s driving experience is characterized by its normalcy and ease of use. It blends seamlessly into the crossover landscape, prioritizing comfort and convenience over driving excitement. The light steering makes maneuvering effortless, especially during extended drives, and despite its lightness, it maintains stability and composure on highways, which is a commendable trait. However, the Tiguan is not designed for spirited driving on winding roads. While it maintains general composure and the optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system provides secure traction in various conditions, it lacks the engaging and fun-to-drive character found in models like the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50. For drivers seeking a more dynamic driving experience, Mazda remains the benchmark in this segment.
In conclusion, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan, while not exceptional in any single category, achieves a level of consistent competence that elevates it to an above-average choice within the competitive compact SUV segment. Its pricing, often more competitive than higher-trim Toyota RAV4 models, further strengthens its value proposition. For buyers prioritizing driving passion, luxurious interiors, and dynamic handling, Mazda’s offerings remain compelling alternatives. However, for those who prefer a non-Japanese brand with a touch of German prestige, the Tiguan holds considerable appeal. Despite lacking any truly lust-worthy features, the Tiguan’s overall package is undeniably appealing, as evidenced by its ongoing sales success.
2024 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line 4Motion Specifications (As Tested):
- Price as-tested: $40,250
Pros:
- Spacious interior
- Consistent performance across categories
Cons:
- Engine feels underpowered
- Fussy haptic steering wheel controls
