2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Review and Road Test In 4K UHD! 

Thank you so much for reviewing a base model. Everyone reviews the top of the line and I doubt we all can afford that.

I just got my 2018 SEL 2 weeks ago and I love it. Sure, it's a little underpowered, but I keep it in sport-mode and I manually shift. OK, it drops my mpg, but...guess what? #problem solved! I have all the passing power I need. IMO- during normal driving conditions, passing ability has more to do with driver awareness, timing and skill, than it does horsepower. Anyway... I chose the VW Tiguan SEL over the CR-V because of VW's classic styling, its quietness, the roominess, the interior and exterior tech and the fact that I can shift gears manually. In 3 words: FUN. TO. DRIVE. The CR-V has an enormous gear shifter (cumbersome). The CR-V has no paddles or shiftable stick (BORING). Plus, CR-Vs are EVERYWHERE (a-dime-a-dozen). And, I don't like the vertical tail lights. The Rav-4 looks like a Storm Trooper: especially the white one. It looks "tacky" and way too trendy. I felt like I was in a flimsy vehicle. The interior styling was wacky and odious. Even the gear shifter looked and felt cheap. Plus, the Rav 4 had only ONE USB port in the entire vehicle #DEALBREAKER. And... No Apple Car play? I feel like I'm in a class above the others in my SEL. It get looks, I get compliments.

That paint color is just gorgeous. I've been noticing a lot of paint colors similar to this all over the place and I love it.

Just bought the Tiguan SE and really like it. Good value for the money.

Doesn’t look like some kind of alien bug mobile, I like its classic lines and rugged look. It looks very similar in the rear to a BMW.

Great review. One of the most informative I've seen, thanks.

Alez-you're an awesome commentator because you are very succinct with your comparisons and explanations. Thanks for your efforts!!! I look forward to your future reviews.

As a Volkswagen fan: This is my one Alex.

I love your channel! You did the research for us! I don't need to be watching other videos and making a list to compare diff models of same segment!

Thank you for the review I’m looking to buy one myself this is just I’m looking for

This is the most comprehensive review on the 2018 Tiguan. Good job!

Alex you are right when you are saying that the look will age well. It's already looking old!

The emergency 3rd row makes this the best 3row bargain right now.

What kills the CRV for me is the CVT. I just dont like CVT's though you get better gas mileage, I just dont like the artificial acceleration and drone you get from them.

The shorter wheelbase version looks a lot nicer and the front end with halogens look very old school in my opinion. The short wheelbase R-Line is beautiful though, especially in white. I'm much more interested to see the upcoming smaller VW SUV you mentioned at the beginning.

The thing that has kept me from considering the Tiguan is MPG. I love my 15 Golf SEL, but when I needed a sub or subcompact SUV recently, I didn't even test drive a Tiguan for fear that I would like it and be tempted to sacrifice the extra 8-10MPG that you get from competitors.

As i was watching i was like is it raining on Alex? Then the pop up came up andnsaid yes you are seeing rain. Not only can he do amazing reviews, he reads minds!

WV always ages well. It looks boring now and it would still look boring 10 years from now. This time designers however outdid themselves. They created a retro look that brings back memories of how cars looked in the 80s. Congrats.

I love VW's and have owned jettas, passats, CC's and tiguans for the past 10 years and to me they are great vehicles. With that said, I do fix them myself and constantly. Its something i enjoy but when ppl ask me about them i tell them to stay clear. Thay are easy to fix but not everyone is mechanically incline nor should they.

I agree that VW generally has timeless designs that age well. But this one has a bit of a "Mitsubishi Outlander" look to it, which is not a good thing. The flattened wheel arch detail, downward curving hood, (overly) chromed grill and high-belt character line make it look a bit dated. It is far from offensive, but it does not look as good as, for instance, any Golf.

Another amazing review Alex!!!! We appreciate your business-like approach and systematic step by step method. As a new father I am in the market for a larger vehicle as my sedan doesn't haul baby stuff really well, especially when it comes to making road trips.

hi Alex You my friend , are one of my favorite top 2 auto reviewers on you tube! But when you say a little bit longer or a little shorter then ,,,. Can you use fractions, like 1/2" or 2"? would especially be help full with German cars? or any auto. I love you're REVIEWS.

Clear , calm and comprehensive review

Love the reviews, But for the Graphs could you possibly Add Lengths To the scale ?

Thanks Alex for the most thorough review on the new Tiguan,

Very well-done, very thorough review. I definitely like the styling of the Tiggy.

Lots of crazy vibrations and creeks

Alex good job!

Thanks for doing a review on a base model

I'd love to see a car seat test with this model!

Excellent Wolkswagen Tiguan.!!!!

Took a serious look at the new Tiguan when we were considering replacing our 2012 Sorento about six months ago. I'm a fan of VW's. Owned a 2013 GTI when we looked at the Tiguan and a few months later purchased a 2018 GTI. So I was primed to like the Tiguan. Positives included the digital cockpit display and the overall highly functional interior. I consider VW interiors elegant and simple, not (as some others claim) boring. The optional third row was obviously a torture chamber but very useful occasionally, especially when short trips meant the difference between taking one vehicle versus two. Likewise overall interior space was a plus compared to some other compact crossovers. Obviously, VW took a lesson from American reactions to the previous Tiguan incarnation; too small and too expensive. However, perhaps I was just too familiar with the driving experience in my GTI. The Tiguan felt like home in some ways but the performance was disappointing. Not only did it not compare to my GTI, it felt considerably less "peppy" and engaging than the VW AllTrac. Putting the drive mode into "Sport" helped, but not that much. Overall, I found the AllTrac much more enjoyable to drive. (My wife, on the other hand, had become accustomed to the "command" driving position of the Sorento and wouldn't give it up in the Alltrac.) One other minor but (for me) important complaint. Unlike my GTI, the center armrest doesn't ratchet or slide forward. I understand this is an omission on the US version and one that I found very annoying. On the other hand, a frequent complaint that's lodged by reviewers and others, that the Tiguan (and other VW's) include a start/stop system, is, imo, ridiculous. The The VW system doesn't intrude in most situations; it's instantaneous on when it starts, and includes modifications to the starting system to avoid undue wear, and saves a bit of fuel and pollution. It's simply a non-issue. And when it is problematic (as in extended stop and go traffic) it can be shut off with a touch of a button. Ultimately, we opted to replace our Kia Sorento with the 2018 version. My wife loves it and not to be outdone, I replaced my 2013 GTI with the 2018 version shortly after.

It looks like an Audi all road, BMW x5, Audi q7, and vw golf all got stuck in a blender together

I really like the clean timeless euro styling, but glad I picked the more well rounded and reliable CRV.

the fake dual exhaust is so wrong...

I am in the beginning of the video now and I can definitely agree with some comments regarding the looks. It feels like we're back in 2010 or something.

This model isn’t a replacement for the Tiguan. It’s is available in Europe along side the regular Tiguan, it’s called the Tiguan Allspace and is the same build as the Skoda Kodiaq which isn’t available in the US.

Weird how you didn't put cx5 in that comparing list of dimensions

I have no doubt you have the 2018 GMC Terrain on the schedule. I personally can't wait for that review since i'm considering buying one.

I do like the body et al styling of the vw. Put a diesel in it and the fuel economy might become a selling point.

Please please please start to discuss rearview and side views to your reviews. I am seeing in the Honda test drives a rather difficult sight issue and you never address. This might be a major reason the boxier Volkswagen gets lower mpgs...it's more drivable in real world driving.

The Tiguan with the Third Row competes directly with the Nissan Rogue and Mitsubishi Outlander because those vehicles offer a third row seat too, the only difference is the Outlander has the Third row seats standard but the Tiguan and the Rogue are optional.

You are so professional! 👍

Awsome review

Watching this in December 2020. Wondering how well this SUV has held up.

I'm a little surprised at the poor mileage and acceleration. I currently have a Passat which has a similar 1.8 turbo engine that delivers terrific acceleration and outstanding mileage. I realize this is a different type of vehicle but I didn't aspect such a disparity.

Good vids. Can't wait for your review on the Subaru ascent

So VW made the Tiguan much bigger but will come out with a smaller suv soon????

Alex, thank you for the awesome reviews. I don't like the fake exhaust outlet implemented by VW with the Tiguan and Atlas. I would keep the design look but make it an actual exhaust. It makes it look cheap. Also they should make a 2.0 liter turbo available with better performance.

Hi Alex, is it possible to have a baby capsule behind the driver, a toddler seat in the middle rear seat, and then still access the third row by flipping the remaining vacant middle row seat forward? i.e. (capsule) + (child seat) + (vacant seat), then flip vacant seat forward to access third row?

Very good information, thanks for posting. I was hoping you could help me understand the light truck comment as the reason for the 3rd row delete from the AWD trims. Looks like with or without the 3rd row, the vehicle easily falls below the class 1 weight limit. Is there a different part of the rule that requires this? Thanks in advance.

finally a review of vw tiguan

You are right about the styling. VW is conservative and long term. The aggressive styling on many other cars I find to be ugly.

Just a measly 184hp from a 2 liter turbo?

What do you suggest for someone who likes everything about the Tiguan except the lack of torque?

Great review. My only concern is the reliability. Prior models had water pump issues at 45-55k miles.

Could I make a suggestion and BTW thanks for the great channel and great reviews. Would it be possible to have some tests of acceleration like 0 to 20 to 0-30 etc. it’s these numbers that are the most important for a lot of people - who cares about 0 to 60 or a quarter mile. Remember the old British Auto car magazine had this in and if you get in an electric car your realize why the instant troque gives it great 0 to 10 0 to 20 numbers and why it feels so nice to drive.

Hi,Alex. Can you do the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander review? I just saw the sales in front of Costco, 7 seats SE trim with AA and Apple Carplay for just 19K after discounts. It comes with the 10 yrs /100 K warranty as well. Do you think it is worthy to purchase? Thanks!

Youre telling me, that design passed through all the departments needed to give it the thumbs up? ayyyyy lmao

so there is no sunroof for comfortline，right？

Sheesh. After a decade of marriage, like my wife (who was petite and nimble), the Tiguan got bigger, heavier, less efficient and more expensive. As for emissions...

In real world the fuel economy is waaaay better..bettwen 25.2 to 27.3 mpg on City is what im getting

Can you review the 2017 dodge journey or the gorgeous 2018 chevy traverse? Love the videos thank you!!

Calling a VW boring is like advising everyone around that the sky is blue. We know. All VWs are under designed since I can remember. Even GTI owners dump another 10k in suspensions, wheels and spoilers to dress it up. There is a large customer base that don't want flash and curves on their machines.

Alex, you very seldom mention any aspects of these vehicles' 4wd systems, and I'm sure they vary in terms of wet or snow driving performance. Any comments on the new Tiguan's?

The RAV4 recently failed the IIHS small offset crash on the passenger side.

Slow, but I love VW products and this one is a good. I'd go for it.

Good review. The jump cuts look spastic and amateurish. Use dissolves or wipes instead for a professional look.

Prices here in los angles for the premium is almost $48k Only thing I hate is the price difference for the options:-( Big jump

Yes...

if you want to know about tiguan , you have to get out to the dealer take a drive test you will see tiguan beat all honda, toyota, nisian,kia,, ,it's body may not look good to you , but it drive so smooth almost like a lexus,,,, i drove over the bad road , i still felt very light and comfortable ..but the body of tigual look a little old school , very plain but drive very good and pick up very fast when you hit the gas.... you would be regret , trust me... go take a drive test..

Alex, great review. At ~23:05, you illustrate a Rogue Sport, not a Rogue. It's a different vehicle entirely.

please review VW Atlas...Thanks

Great review Alex. Can you review the R-line Tiguan?

I don't understand why both versions need to be classified as light trucks. Why can't they offer the FWD without third seat and classify it as something else. I wish there were more mid size two row CUVs.

Still waiting for your MINI Countryman S All4 review

The production of the 2017 Tiguan stopped in 2016 and are no longer manufactured so they will be available until the stock runs out. They are being discounted but not by enough considering the age of the model's 10 years.

His EPA and power might be attributed to higher elevations. Wonder where Alex is in relation to sea level

A V.W. Tiguan? Reminds me of the Atlas. I guess if someone likes lots of the black plastic cladding, this may appeal to them.

So much for safety, to be able to see better at night, you have to go to the SEL, I am prepared to pay more for LED headlight but not thousand more. Where I live, collision with large animals is often fatal.

It's not really an American model - VW sells LWB version on many markets as Tiguan Allspace.

Any one else think that looks like a really old X5?

VW HAS a much longer warranty now than before

third row is a joke , who need it ,, it is too small only for a 5 year old kid ok.. won't fit 125 lbs teen.. but the tiguan drive smooth than any other mini suv... i still love it...

I see that the SEL premium has a special feature called land keeping assist. Can someone please enlighten me as to what land this assists in keeping? :P

So VW made it cheaper feeling, more heavy, slower, and more numb. Great. Americans will love this. Another cheapen3d North American VW product. Between this, the Atlas, and Passat, I feel maybe a dime was spent on the interior. Definelty not German

I love your reviews and have been waiting patiently for this one to come in. Thank you! Too bad you didn't get to spend more time in the SEL or SEL Premium model - much classier interiors. And also too bad that the only engine option seems a bit weak and without great fuel economy to make up for it. I know you didn't get to test it, but what's your estimate on the 0-60 for an SEL model? Also, I think you forgot to mention that it comes with a 6 year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

The US Modell? They sale this one in the eu to.

Federal laws should be implemented to prevent 3rd row seating that don't provide adequate safety for all passengers (adults in this case). If you have an adult in the 3rd row and you get in a accident how do prevent head injuries.

What’s missing from a loaded Tiguan that an Audi Q5 has?

so just to be clear the much smaller Tiguan is smaller than the larger Atlas or Honda pilot or a Chevy Tahoe...rather annoying how you didn't stop comparing it those again again , while hardly mentioning its peers ...odd.( i get it given the number of them, but picking the leaders..wouldn't hurt)..

Looks handsome. The style will age well, as VW styling generally does. Unfortunately, being a VW means it won't be too reliable and repairs will cost and arm and a leg.

They've had very annoying "virtual cockpit" crashing issues.

When will you review 2019 VW Jetta?

Unfortunately, No top safety pick for the Tiguan from IIHS

Interior looks cheaper Compare CX-5 /CRV / RAV4 / rouge

please if review new traverse thanks

I like the older Tiguan & the newer Atlas looks ok, but this looks rather boring. Also the drop of power & increase in weight is not good. The last Tiguan was actually sportier than class norm, but not it is slower than a CR-V. Also not good is the premium pricing, especially some of that European taste has been lost on this new Tiguan. The Atlas I could forgive as it is price competitive with Pilot & Explorer (and significantly cheaper than the outgoing Touareg) but not for the Tiguan.

Just traded one of these back in. It was a 2018 SE model. Had it about 20 months/27000 miles. Worst car I ever had. Was at the dealer 8 times the last 2 months. Constant problems (oil leaks/check engine and EPC lights). Dealer could never figure it out when they think they figured it out they never had the parts because they are to expensive to carry. So they would order and I’d have to go back. Do not buy! Junk

I like your videos and watch most of them as they are very well thought through and generally articulate. But, please.... please stop using the word "Actually". It "actually" adds nothing that would "actually" help your message. It adds nothing that would help your message. 19 times you "actually" used the word "actually". Ugh.