Being part of a group like Volkswagen has monumental advantages for a vehicle like the Tiguan, which benefits from gadgets and technologies also designed for more prestigious vehicles. In fact, this is what gives the Tiguan a premium look and an even more refined drive compared to its competitors. It's a very pleasant model to drive, especially if you spend long hours on the highway each week.
There are no major new features this year except for the Comfortline R-Line Black version. It's worth noting that a new Tiguan is expected to arrive in the coming months, as it has already been presented in other markets.
Range and Price
The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan is available in four versions, starting with the Trendline model, which has a starting price of $37,610. This is slightly higher than the competition, but the German automaker's SUV offers more in return. Next up is the Comfortline version at $41,210. There's also a Comfortline R-Line Black version, offering a more stylish look for $44,510. Finally, the Highland version tops the range with a starting price of $48,210.
Category and Competition
The Volkswagen Tiguan is part of the category with the fiercest competition, and some of its rivals are significantly more popular. Nevertheless, this doesn't mean the Tiguan is a poor choice—quite the opposite. It has many strong qualities, and its popularity is growing in Canada.
Rivals: Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Bronco Sport, Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-50, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Toyota Rav4
Design and Technology
I've always liked the design of the Volkswagen Tiguan because it manages to be elegant without being flashy. It almost has the stature of a luxury model, and that's part of its charm. It also offers a nice range of colors and beautiful wheels. The brand's designers have made excellent choices in styling this model.
The same applies to the interior, with a touch of finesse and plenty of tech. The Tiguan offers impressive insulation, which contributes to its unmatched comfort in its segment. It also has one of the most spacious interiors in its class, a key advantage over its competitors.
As for technology, the multimedia system isn't perfect, but you get used to it. However, its digital dashboard is absolutely stunning. The driver assistance technologies are also highly effective.
Performance
The German automaker's SUV offers just one mechanical option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, which is slightly below what competitors offer. However, I assure you it's more than enough for the Tiguan. It also comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Ultimately, this allows the German SUV to have an average fuel consumption of 10.6L/100km in the city and 8.0L/100km on the highway. While we'd like to see more mechanical variety, the 4-cylinder engine should meet the needs of most buyers.
Weak Points
It definitely lacks mechanical variety. A sportier version or one with enhanced off-road capabilities would be welcome. It also doesn't retain its resale value well.
Strong Points
The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan is an elegant, comfortable model that lacks nothing in terms of equipment. It also offers one of the most spacious trunks in its category. Its driving is both dynamic and comfortable. It's also one of the few models in its category that can offer up to 7 seats.
Signature Element
The Tiguan greatly benefits from being part of the Volkswagen family. Some of its technologies and several of its components have also been developed for Audi or Porsche models, which ensures that the German automaker's SUV offers a higher overall experience and more dynamic driving.
Final Word
The Volkswagen Tiguan is the ideal vehicle for those who want a luxury car without all the usual drawbacks. Granted, the German automaker's SUV isn't a prestigious model, and it doesn't offer breathtaking performance, but its driving experience is very refined, along with its overall finish and quality. Simply put, its value for money is significantly better than most of its competitors.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
