The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan ushered in a new era for VW’s compact SUV lineup, featuring a complete redesign aimed at capturing a larger share of the market. This second-generation Tiguan grew significantly in size compared to its predecessor, reflecting Volkswagen’s focus on catering to families and adventurers alike. One of the standout changes was the introduction of an optional third-row seat, a rarity in the compact SUV class. This addition, along with a longer wheelbase tailored to the U.S. market, made the Tiguan more versatile and practical for larger households.
On the outside, the Tiguan features a refined aesthetic, with clean lines and a bold front grille that exudes sophistication. Its LED headlights and sharp profile reflect Volkswagen’s precision in design, combining modern styling with timeless appeal. The 2018 model represents VW’s ability to create a vehicle that balances form and function, making it both visually appealing and highly capable.
Smooth Performance and Versatile Handling
Under the hood, the 2018 Tiguan is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and a responsive driving experience. While some competitors may offer faster acceleration, the Tiguan focuses on delivering a composed and confident ride.
For those who prioritize versatility, Volkswagen’s available 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability in various weather and road conditions. Drivers can select from multiple drive modes, including Snow, Off-Road, and Custom Off-Road, ensuring the Tiguan is ready for anything from city streets to rugged trails. With its well-tuned suspension, the Tiguan absorbs bumps and handles curves with ease, making it a pleasure to drive for both short commutes and long road trips.
Spacious Interior for Families and Adventurers
The interior of the 2018 Tiguan is where it truly shines, offering one of the roomiest cabins in the compact SUV segment. The longer wheelbase translates to generous legroom for both front and rear passengers, ensuring comfort during long drives. The optional third-row seat adds a layer of versatility, accommodating up to seven passengers when needed. While the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips, it’s a welcome feature for families who occasionally need extra seating.
Volkswagen’s attention to detail is evident in the high-quality materials and clean, minimalist design of the cabin. The supportive front seats provide excellent comfort, and the rear seats can slide and recline to customize the passenger experience. Cargo space is another highlight, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available when the rear seats are folded flat. This makes the Tiguan an ideal companion for everything from grocery runs to outdoor adventures.
Advanced Technology at Your Fingertips
Volkswagen equipped the 2018 Tiguan with a suite of modern technology to keep drivers connected, entertained, and informed. The base model comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. Higher trims upgrade to an 8-inch screen with navigation, offering a larger and more intuitive interface.
One of the most impressive tech features is the available Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, a fully customizable digital gauge cluster. This innovative system displays driving data, navigation, and multimedia information in a sleek, high-resolution format. Other optional features include a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light, a Fender premium audio system for audiophiles, and keyless entry with push-button start for added convenience. The Tiguan’s tech offerings make every journey more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Prioritizing Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a cornerstone of the 2018 Tiguan, and Volkswagen ensured it was equipped to protect its occupants. The SUV earned strong safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), giving drivers confidence on the road.
Standard safety features include a rearview camera and automatic post-collision braking, which minimizes damage and enhances safety in the event of an accident. Higher trims add advanced driver-assistance technologies, such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. For added peace of mind, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are also available. These features, combined with the Tiguan’s sturdy build and precise handling, make it a reliable choice for families and safety-conscious drivers.
Balancing Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2018 Tiguan strikes a solid balance between performance and efficiency, making it a practical choice for a variety of driving needs. Its turbocharged engine and eight-speed automatic transmission deliver power smoothly while maintaining competitive fuel economy figures. Front-wheel-drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while opting for all-wheel drive slightly reduces the city rating to 21 mpg.
While the Tiguan’s fuel economy may not be class-leading, it’s respectable for a vehicle of its size and capability. This balance ensures that drivers can enjoy the SUV’s spaciousness and versatility without sacrificing efficiency, making it an appealing option for both daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Customization Through Trim Levels
Volkswagen offers the 2018 Tiguan in four trims: S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium, each tailored to different needs and preferences. The base S trim provides essential features like a rearview camera and smartphone integration, ensuring a solid foundation of convenience. Moving up to the SE trim adds creature comforts like heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and an upgraded infotainment system.
The SEL trim introduces premium touches, such as a hands-free power liftgate, a larger touchscreen, and advanced driver-assistance features. At the top of the lineup, the SEL Premium offers the ultimate in luxury, with leather upholstery, a Fender premium audio system, and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. Optional packages and standalone upgrades allow buyers to further customize their Tiguan to suit their unique needs, making it a truly versatile compact SUV.
A Well-Rounded Compact SUV
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan is a standout in the competitive compact SUV segment, offering a winning combination of style, space, and technology. Its redesigned exterior, roomy interior, and advanced features make it a versatile choice for families, commuters, and adventurers alike. While its performance leans more toward comfort than sportiness, the Tiguan excels in practicality and safety, ensuring peace of mind for every journey.
With its sleek design, refined engineering, and thoughtful amenities, the 2018 Tiguan embodies Volkswagen’s dedication to quality and innovation. Whether you need a reliable family vehicle or a stylish, tech-savvy SUV, the Tiguan delivers on multiple fronts, making it a compelling choice for any driver.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan blends timeless design with modern elements, making it a standout in the compact SUV market. Its clean lines and sleek profile give it an upscale appearance that feels right at home in both urban and suburban settings. The bold front grille, flanked by LED headlights and daytime running lights, creates a confident and polished look. Chrome accents on higher trims further elevate its premium feel.
Its longer body compared to the previous generation gives it a more substantial presence on the road, while the roof rails add functionality and adventure-ready style. Optional 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels provide a sporty touch, allowing buyers to tailor the Tiguan’s aesthetic to their preferences. Whether parked in a driveway or cruising down the highway, the Tiguan’s refined design ensures it leaves a lasting impression.
Off-Road Capability and Driving Modes
Though primarily designed for on-road comfort, the 2018 Tiguan offers surprising capability for light off-road adventures. Models equipped with Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system feature selectable driving modes to handle a variety of terrains. The Off-Road and Custom Off-Road modes adjust throttle response, transmission shifts, and all-wheel-drive settings to optimize performance on unpaved paths or loose surfaces.
The system also includes Hill Descent Control, which helps maintain a steady speed on steep declines, adding confidence during outdoor excursions. While it’s not intended for rugged trails like some larger SUVs, the Tiguan is more than capable of handling gravel roads, muddy paths, and snowy conditions, making it a versatile companion for those who enjoy venturing off the beaten path.
Ride Comfort and Quiet Cabin
One of the standout qualities of the 2018 Tiguan is its smooth and quiet ride. Volkswagen engineers prioritized comfort, resulting in a suspension system that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Tiguan provides a serene driving experience that minimizes noise and vibration.
Inside, the cabin is well-insulated, keeping road and wind noise at bay. The result is a tranquil environment that enhances the overall driving experience. This focus on comfort extends to the seating, where supportive cushions and ample legroom ensure passengers remain relaxed, even on long journeys. For families and commuters alike, the Tiguan delivers a level of refinement typically reserved for more expensive vehicles.
Long-Term Reliability and Maintenance
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan is designed with long-term ownership in mind. Backed by Volkswagen’s 6-year/72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty (for 2018 models), it provides peace of mind for buyers concerned about reliability and maintenance costs. The warranty is also fully transferable to subsequent owners, adding value for those considering resale or trade-in options.
Routine maintenance for the Tiguan is straightforward, with Volkswagen offering prepaid maintenance plans to help owners manage costs. Its turbocharged engine and modern design ensure durability, provided regular servicing is performed. For drivers seeking a dependable SUV with manageable long-term expenses, the Tiguan is a smart choice.
Comparison to Competitors
In a crowded compact SUV market, the 2018 Tiguan holds its own against rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. While the Tiguan may not match the CR-V’s class-leading cargo space or the CX-5’s sporty handling, it excels in areas like passenger comfort, technology, and overall refinement.
The optional third-row seating is a unique advantage, offering flexibility not found in most competitors. Additionally, the Tiguan’s European styling and premium interior materials give it an edge in perceived quality. Buyers seeking a well-rounded SUV with a balance of practicality and sophistication will find the Tiguan a compelling alternative to its rivals.
Resale Value and Market Appeal
Volkswagen’s reputation for quality engineering enhances the resale value of the 2018 Tiguan. Its timeless design and advanced features ensure it remains attractive to buyers in the used market, making it a strong investment for long-term ownership. The SUV’s transferable warranty also adds to its appeal, providing reassurance to second-hand buyers.
In the market, the Tiguan stands out for its blend of German engineering, family-friendly features, and high-tech amenities. Its appeal is broad, attracting both young professionals looking for a stylish ride and families needing a practical, versatile vehicle. These factors contribute to its enduring popularity and market demand.
Environmental Considerations
Volkswagen designed the 2018 Tiguan with efficiency in mind, making it a relatively eco-friendly choice in the compact SUV category. Its turbocharged engine is optimized for reduced emissions while maintaining a balance of power and fuel economy. Models equipped with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system use advanced technology to distribute power efficiently, further minimizing unnecessary fuel consumption.
The Tiguan’s adherence to stringent emissions standards reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Drivers who prioritize eco-conscious features in their vehicles will appreciate the Tiguan’s effort to reduce its environmental impact without sacrificing practicality.
Ideal Use Cases for the 2018 Tiguan
The 2018 Tiguan is a versatile vehicle designed to suit a variety of lifestyles. For families, its spacious interior, optional third-row seating, and robust safety features make it an excellent choice for daily school runs, weekend trips, and vacations. Commuters will appreciate its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and advanced tech features, which make long drives more enjoyable.
Adventure seekers will find the Tiguan capable of handling light off-road trails and snowy conditions, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and driving modes. Additionally, its refined design and upscale interior make it a great option for those who want a practical SUV that doesn’t compromise on style. No matter the need, the Tiguan adapts to meet a wide range of requirements, solidifying its place as a versatile and dependable choice.
