(8th of 28 vehicles)
If you're seeking a truly small SUV that's a cinch to maneuver and stands out from the crowd, the 2013 VW Tiguan is a pleaser. Its snappy engine, meanwhile, makes it fun to drive on twisty roa
The Tiguan's compact size might be a little too small for some families. Then there's the cost: A top-trim 2013 Tiguan approaches the price of its luxury cousin, the Audi Q5.
The Tiguan is often cited as the GTI of compact sport-utility vehicles since it shares the same engine as Volkswagen's invigorating hatchback. There's truth to that. While not as fast as the smaller and lighter GTI, the Tiguan feels spry and is fun to drive. With a 0-60-mph time of just under eight seconds, the Tiguan is relatively quick for this class, and turbo lag is not a major issue when you need to quickly hit freeway speeds or pass slower traffic. 2013 VW Tiguan models with a 6-speed automatic transmission also feature a Sport mo
Read the Full 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan Review
advertisement
why ads?Based on 84 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.
Review this carBy desert rat (UT) on Wednesday, June 19, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000
overall rating 4 of 10rating detailsPros: "fun to drive, stability, comfort"
Cons: "expensive, small cargo space, bad engine"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 3
"The car is comfortable with a nice boost uphill, the AWD performs well in snow, on sand. Small cargo space. Last week, the EPC and catalytic converter lights came on and the engine died on the road. Defective turbo. Still under repair (at the dealer for 1.5 weeks; needed new parts etc), covered under warranty we'll see how the company compensates me for expenses (the car died 6 hrs drive away from home)."
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
By Pete (AL) on Friday, June 07, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 34,000
overall rating 8 of 10rating detailsPros: "Handling, acceleration, options and features, VW i"
Cons: "Kind of cut-rate on details, premium fuel required"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 6
"Bought in 2011 for good acceleration and handling -- turbo 2.0 liter engine is same as in GTI and has 6-speed torque convertor transmission (less common among small crossovers then than now). Picked SEL with upgraded Nav to get adaptive headlights, power drivers seat and back-up camera. Most expensive version (delivered: $35K). Love the performance but less excited about utility as an SUV -- small on the outside is good but this one is cramped on the inside. Minimal storage in passenger compartment and the most awkward fold down rear seats that I can recall (my old Santa Fe's were equally crude with same straps, but far easier to use and requiring less muscle.) Dealership has exceptionally good service department and with VW's no-cost maintenance I have spent $0 on anything (ran out a few months ago so I'm now on my own with pretty steep labor rates and very expensive parts). I like VW's and love the dealer -- have a second one ('08 Rabbit) and will keep it when the Tiguan goes. Interesting that the $20K Rabbit is a more refined design and has a more upscale feel even though it lacks the Tiguan's gadgets -- and it doesn't require a manual strut to keep the hood open (a real down-scale item on Tiguan)"
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
in 3 simple steps