Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016) Review

Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016) At A Glance

3/5

+Decent SUV with diesel automatic option. Comfortable seats. Escape version capable off-road. Optional Park Assist works well. Much better from September 2011 facelift.

-Originally had hard ride. 2.0 TDI PD no longer the best. Fuel economy not brilliant.

Insurance Groups are between 14–25
On average it achieves 85% of the official MPG figure

If you're looking for the newer model, you'll need our Volkswagen Tiguan review.

Oh, no, not another 4x4. Are the roads really that bad? What next: an Audi Hiawatha? By my count, the VW Tiguan numbers the 63rd SUV on the UK market. Should you be even remotely interested?

Well, first there's the badge. VW reliability might not be as legendary as it was. But that Beastie Boy medallion still cuts some sway in snobby Surrey suburbs.

Then there's the back seats. Slightly higher than the fronts, Freelander style, giving kids in the back a view forwards, and making them less likely to chuck up down your neck. These seats are also supremely comfortable, centre rear is fine for adults as well as kids and legroom is generous.

Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016) handling and engines

Engines aren't too shabby. VW's standard 140PS 2.0 TDI, and its interesting 150PS 1.4 turbo-supercharged petrol.

There's a diesel automatic, which there isn't with the CR-V, RAV-4, C-Crosser, Outlander or 4007. This is a real torque converter 6-speed auto rather than a pseudo auto or a DSG.

It's not too bad in the mud, either. At least the ‘Escape' version with shovel front and sump shield isn't. Especially with the autobox, because pressing the ‘Off Road' button slows its throttle response, activates the hill descent control and increases the sensitivity of the cross axle braking system. It works very well, making the car a genuine off roader, closer in ability to an X-Trail than a RAV-4 or a CR-V.

Out on the road the Tiguan is much ‘firmer' than a CR-V. More of the ilk of an X-trail, C-Crosser, Outlander or 4007. The hard seats at first don't feel very comfortable, but once on the move feel fine. Handling is assured, though the steering doesn't offer much feedback. The engine suffers the usual VAG 2.0 TDI catapult effect at around 1,700rpm, but will trickle down to around 1,200rpm.

Out off the road it did very well in axle articulation demonstrations, dealt with some deep and glutinous mud, ascended and descended steep, muddy inclines and generally coped with everything the average owner is likely to throw at it.

Anyone with a pony, caravan or boat will be very pleased with the special anti-snake towing kit, which comprises a foldaway towball and electronics that detect a trailer is being towed, sense any problem and automatically brake alternate wheels of the car to straighten things out.

In conclusion, the Tiguan may be a late arrival to the niche, but it comes with plenty to commend it.

Most importantly apart from the badge, it will go off road, and there's a diesel automatic option.

From September 2011, much improved. We drove the 2.0TDI 140 Escape 4WD on 235/55 R17 tyres and found it rode and handled much better than previously. Not a lot of torque from the 2.0TDI 140, can't use 5th and 6th in a 30 limit, but will pull from 1,500rpm. We averaged 41.9mpg.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.4 TSI 38 mpg 9.3 s 171 g/km
1.4 TSI 4MOTION 35–37 mpg 9.2–9.6 s 178–185 g/km
1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology 42 mpg 8.9–9.3 s 156–178 g/km
2.0 TDI 48 mpg 10.2 s 155 g/km
2.0 TDI 110 BlueMotion Technology 53–57 mpg 11.9 s 138–139 g/km
2.0 TDI 170 4MOTION 43–47 mpg 8.9 s 158–172 g/km
2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION 49 mpg 8.5 s 151 g/km
2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION DSG 47–50 mpg 8.5 s 150–159 g/km
2.0 TDI 177 BlueMotion Technology 49 mpg 8.5 s 151 g/km
2.0 TDI 177 BlueMotion Technology DSG 47 mpg 8.5 s 159 g/km
2.0 TDI 184 4MOTION DSG 50 mpg - 150 g/km
2.0 TDI 4MOTION 44–53 mpg 9.8–10.5 s 140–167 g/km
2.0 TDI 4MOTION BlueMotion Technology 49 mpg 10.2 s 150 g/km
2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG 44–50 mpg 9.8–10.5 s 150–169 g/km
2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG BlueMotion Technology 47 mpg 10.2 s 158 g/km
2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 49–57 mpg 9.8–10.2 s 130–150 g/km
2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION 49–53 mpg 10.2 s 140–150 g/km
2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION DSG 48–50 mpg 10.2 s 150–153 g/km
2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology DSG 47–50 mpg 10.2 s 150–158 g/km
2.0 TSI 4MOTION 32–33 mpg 7.8–8.5 s 198–199 g/km
2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG 33–34 mpg 7.3–8.1 s 195–199 g/km

Real MPG average for the Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

85%

Real MPG

24–58 mpg

MPGs submitted

629

Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016) interior

Dimensions
Length 4426–4433 mm
Width 1809–2041 mm
Height 1686–1703 mm
Wheelbase 2604 mm

Full specifications

When you step out after your mud-bath, your trousers don't get claggy, because the doors very cleverly seal the sills against it, leaving them completely clean.

There's a clever new optional hard disc satnav that can be programmed to take a circular route, or even to remember a route you have taken. The £2,080 price of that includes a 6 disc autochanger MP3 compatibility, AUX socket and rear view camera with a shape superimposition system making it easy to use.

As well as that, for £450, you can have ‘Park Assist' which not only provides front and rear parking sensors, but also actually parks the car for you. All you have to do is press the Park Assist button and drive slowly past a parking space. The system then tells you when to stop, put it into reverse, take your hands off the steering wheel and it automatically steers the car into the parking space. You still have to press the accelerator and brake, but it eliminates all error of judgement which most of us have frequently been guilty of.

The parking brake is electric, clicks on at a pull of the switch, and off again automatically as soon as you start pulling away. While the hill holder automatically holds the car on a hill without having to brake at all.

All the other bits and pieces are fairly well covered in the specs section. But I'd better warn you if buying an ‘S' to specify the £210 leather covered multifunction steering wheel because the standard wheel is a nasty, hard plastic affair, horrible to hold.

Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016) models and specs

Dimensions
Length 4426–4433 mm
Width 1809–2041 mm
Height 1686–1703 mm
Wheelbase 2604 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1451–1727 kg
Boot Space 470–1510 L
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 18000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Space-saving spare wheel
Costs
List Price £20,125–£32,050
Insurance Groups 14–25
Road Tax Bands D–J
Official MPG 31.7–56.5 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult 5
Child 4
Pedestrian 2
Overall 5

On sale until March 2016

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.4 TSI 150ps 6speed S BlueMotion Technology 2WD 5dr £22,330 42.2 mpg 8.9 s
2.0 TDI 110ps 6speed S BlueMotion Technology 2WD 5dr £22,975 56.5 mpg 11.9 s
2.0 TDI 150 6speed Match Edition BlueMotion Technology 2WD 5dr £25,820 56.5 mpg -
2.0 TDI 150 6speed Match Edition BlueMotion Technology 4Motion 5dr £27,590 53.3 mpg -
2.0 TDI 150 Escape 6speed BlueMotion Technology 4Motion 5dr £27,980 53.3 mpg 9.8 s
2.0 TDI 150 Escape BlueMotion Technology DSG 4Motion 5dr £29,475 49.6 mpg 9.8 s
2.0 TDI 150 Match Edition BlueMotion Technology DSG7 4Motion 5dr £29,115 49.6 mpg -
2.0 TDI 150 R-Line Edition BlueMotion Technology 4Motion 5dr £29,520 53.3 mpg -
2.0 TDI 150 R-Line Edition BlueMotion Technology DSG 4Motion 5dr £31,045 49.6 mpg -
2.0 TDI 150ps 6speed S BlueMotion Technology 2WD 5dr £23,525 56.5 mpg 9.8 s
2.0 TDI 150ps 6speed S BlueMotion Technology 4Motion 5dr £25,295 53.3 mpg 9.8 s
2.0 TDI 150ps S BlueMotion Technology DSG7 4Motion 5dr £26,790 49.6 mpg 9.8 s
2.0 TDI 184 Match Edition BlueMotion Technology DSG7 4Motion 5dr £30,120 49.6 mpg -
2.0 TDI 184 R-Line Edition BlueMotion Technology DSG 4Motion 5dr £32,050 49.6 mpg -

On sale until October 2015

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Escape 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION 5dr £27,610 48.7 mpg 10.2 s
Escape 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £29,105 47.9 mpg 10.2 s
Match 1.4 TSI 160 4MOTION 5dr £25,650 37.2 mpg 9.2 s
Match 1.4 TSI 160 BlueMotion Technology 5dr £23,955 42.2 mpg 8.9 s
Match 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION 5dr £26,920 48.7 mpg 10.2 s
Match 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £28,445 47.9 mpg 10.2 s
Match 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 5dr £25,150 53.3 mpg 10.2 s
Match 2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION 5dr £27,925 48.7 mpg 8.5 s
Match 2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £29,450 50.4 mpg 8.5 s
Match 2.0 TSI 180 4MOTION 5dr £26,490 33.2 mpg 8.3 s
Match 2.0 TSI 180 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £27,980 33.6 mpg 7.9 s
R-Line 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 5dr 4MOTION £28,750 48.7 mpg 10.2 s
R-Line 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology DSG 5dr 4MOTION Auto £30,275 47.1 mpg 10.2 s
R-Line 2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION 5dr £29,755 48.7 mpg 8.5 s
R-Line 2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £31,280 47.1 mpg 8.5 s
R-Line 2.0 TSI 210 4MOTION 5dr £29,185 33.2 mpg 7.8 s
R-Line 2.0 TSI 210 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £30,675 32.8 mpg 7.3 s
S 1.4 TSI 160 4MOTION 5dr £23,655 37.2 mpg 9.2 s
S 1.4 TSI 160 BlueMotion Technology 5dr £21,960 42.2 mpg 8.9 s
S 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION 5dr £24,925 48.7 mpg 10.2 s
S 2.0 TDI 140 BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £26,420 47.9 mpg 10.2 s
S 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 110 5dr £22,605 53.3 mpg 11.9 s
S 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 140 5dr £23,155 53.3 mpg 10.2 s

On sale until May 2014

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SE 1.4 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £25,650 37.2 mpg 9.2 s
SE 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £23,965 42.2 mpg 8.9 s
SE 2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION 5dr £27,935 48.7 mpg 8.5 s
SE 2.0 TDI 177 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £29,460 47.1 mpg 8.5 s
SE 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION 5dr £26,930 48.7 mpg 10.2 s
SE 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £28,455 47.1 mpg 10.2 s
SE 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £25,160 53.3 mpg 10.2 s
SE 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £26,490 33.2 mpg 8.3 s
SE 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £27,980 32.8 mpg 7.9 s

On sale until April 2013

4 X 4
Version List Price MPG 0-62
R-Line 2.0 TDI (170ps) 4MOTION 5dr £29,180 47.1 mpg 8.9 s
SE 2.0 TDI (170ps) 4MOTION 5dr £27,075 47.1 mpg 8.9 s

On sale until September 2012

4 X 4
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Sport 1.4 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £25,605 37.2 mpg 9.2 s
Sport 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £23,925 42.2 mpg 8.9 s
Sport 2.0 TDI (170ps) 4MOTION 5dr £27,570 47.1 mpg 8.9 s
Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION 5dr £26,890 48.7 mpg 10.2 s
Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £28,415 47.1 mpg 10.2 s
Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £25,120 53.3 mpg 10.2 s
Sport 2.0 TSI (180ps) 4MOTION 5dr £26,440 33.2 mpg 8.3 s
Sport 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £27,315 33.2 mpg 7.8 s
Sport 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £28,805 32.8 mpg 7.3 s

On sale until June 2011

4 X 4
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Match 1.4 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £23,625 35.3 mpg 9.6 s
Match 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £22,885 42.2 mpg 9.3 s
Match 2.0 TDI (170ps) 4MOTION 5dr £25,465 44.8 mpg 8.9 s
Match 2.0 TDI 4MOTION 5dr £24,580 44.8 mpg 10.5 s
Match 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £26,080 44.1 mpg 10.5 s
Match 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £23,965 53.3 mpg 10.2 s
Match 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £24,345 33.2 mpg 8.5 s
Match 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £25,595 32.8 mpg 8.1 s
R Line 2.0 TDI (170ps) 4MOTION 5dr £27,975 44.8 mpg 8.9 s
R Line 2.0 TDI 4MOTION 5dr £27,090 44.8 mpg 10.5 s
R Line 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £28,590 44.1 mpg 10.5 s
R Line 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £27,730 33.2 mpg 8.5 s
R Line 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £28,980 32.8 mpg 8.1 s
S 1.4 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £21,965 35.3 mpg 9.6 s
S 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £21,225 42.2 mpg 9.3 s
Sport 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £25,740 33.2 mpg 8.5 s
Sport 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG 5dr Auto £26,990 32.8 mpg 8.1 s

On sale until April 2010

4 X 4
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SE 1.4 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £22,595 35.3 mpg 9.6 s
SE 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £21,860 42.2 mpg 9.3 s
SE 2.0 TDI (170ps) 4MOTION 5dr £24,535 42.8 mpg 8.9 s
SE 2.0 TDI 4MOTION 5dr £23,650 44.1 mpg 10.5 s
SE 2.0 TDI 4MOTION 5dr Auto £23,650 - -
SE 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology 5dr £22,945 53.3 mpg 10.2 s
SE 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £23,310 31.7 mpg 8.5 s
SE 2.0 TSI 4MOTION 5dr Auto £23,310 - -

On sale until January 2010

4 X 4
Version List Price MPG 0-62
S 1.4 TSI 5dr £20,125 38.2 mpg 9.3 s
S 2.0 TDI 5dr £21,230 47.9 mpg 10.2 s
SE 1.4 TSI 5dr £21,470 38.2 mpg 9.3 s
SE 2.0 TDI 5dr £22,575 47.9 mpg 10.2 s

On sale until May 2009

4 X 4
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SE 1.4 TSI 4MOTION 5dr £20,940 35.3 mpg 9.6 s

Model History

October 2007

Available for ordering

S 1.4-litre CHAIN CAM TSI 150 PS 4MOTION 6spd manual 199g/km, £19,370

S 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd manual 189g/km £20,500

S 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd auto tiptronic 199g/km, £21,750

SE 1.4-litre TSI CHAIN CAM 150 PS 4MOTION 6spd manual 199g/km £20,670

SE 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd manual 189g/km £21,800

SE 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd auto tiptronic 199g/km £23,050

Sport 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd manual 189g/km £22,500

Sport 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd auto tiptronic 199g/km, £23,750

Escape 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd manual 189 g/k, £22,050

Escape 2.0-litre TDI BELT CAM 140 PS 4MOTION 6spd auto tiptronic 199g/km £23,300

For cars with satnav, Trafficmaster subscription included as from Week 31 2007 build.

12 year body warranty. Low ABI Group 9 insurance.

Top version called Tiguan R-Line with 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, a unique set of front and rear bumpers, subtle wheel arch extensions and colour-coded sills and pair of split chrome bars in the grille. Has sports seats and a flat bottomed multifunction steering wheel.

Tyres are: 215/65/R16 (preferred for cold weather tyres) and 235/55/R17. Best not to go for bigger wheels and lower profile tyres.

January 2008

Compact SUV built at Wolfsburg and launched in UK in January 2008. Has new generation radio and 30GB hard disc navigation system. Rear parking camera. Switchable 'Offroad Mode'. 18 and 28 degree entry angles.

Two body variants of the Tiguan differ primarily in their front ends. The “Trend & Fun” and “Sport & Style” versions are designed for a maximum entry angle of 18 degrees in front. The “Track & Field” Tiguan that is tuned even more for offroad duty can assume entry angles of up to 28 degrees with its front end.

4,400mm long, 1,850mm wide and 1,690mm high.

McPherson strut fron suspen sion with aluminum support fram; four-link rear axle matched to the four-wheel drive system 4MOTION. Chassis development goals were:
* Agile driving behavior (not 100% successful)
* Very good vibration behavior and ride comfort (did not feed through to poroduction)
* Low roll angle with harmonic roll dynamics
* High driving dynamic stability (not 100% successful)
* Good Offroad handling

New generation of electromechanical power steering giving very precise steering feel, even offroad yet no jolts transmitted to the steering wheel. 16-inch wheels with 215/65 R16 tires. The “Sport & Style” Tiguan also has as standard 17-inch alloy wheels and 235/55 R17 tires. 18-inch wheels with tires in 235/50 R18 format are available as special equipment.

Offroad Mode is offered exclusively on the Tiguan “Track & Field”. One switch activates the “hill descent assistant” (for optimal control on slopes), “adaptation of driver’s pedal characteristic” (for finer gradations of torque), “EDS adaptation” (electronic differential locks are activated at the slightest slip), “ABS adaptation” (improved braking action on loose road materials), “hill climb assist” (support when climbing and protection of the clutch) and – in conjunction with automatic transmission – “gear preselect” (including optimal engine braking action). These numerous functions involve up to five ECUs that manage the systems. The pushbutton itself is connected to the engine controller. From there, the information “Offroad Mode active” is communicated to other ECUs via the vehicle’s CAN bus. For safety reasons, the function has to be reactivated after each ignition cycle.

In the UK, the Tiguan was initially available with two engines: a 2.0-litre 140 PS TDI diesel which is likely to be the most popular model, and a 1.4-litre 150 PS TSI petrol unit. Later in 2008 a 170 PS TDI and two further petrol engines became available to order. Both diesel engines meet the stringent Euro 5 emissions standard that comes into effect in 2009.

All Tiguan models will be offered with standard 4MOTION ‘intelligent’ four-wheel drive. The front axle adopts a strut type system linked to a lightweight aluminium support frame with electromechanical power steering. A four-link rear axle lends the Tiguan sharp dynamics suited to off-road applications.

The range is split into four trim levels: S, SE and Sport which have a front end treatment biased towards on-road applications and an 18 degree angle of approach – a figure that defines the angle of slope the Tiguan can traverse. Additionally an Escape trim level will be offered for those customers looking for additional off-road capability. This has a unique front end design featuring a shorter overhang, protective element over the front radiator grille, a sump guard, hill descent control and a compass as well as a 28 degree angle of approach.

Two engines at launch: a 2.0-litre TDI 140bhp diesel and a CHAIN CAM 1.4-litre TSI 150bhp petrol unit. Later in 2008 a 170bhp TDI engine and a further pair of TSI petrol engines were added to the line-up. All diesel engines comply with the strict Euro 5 emissions standard that comes into effect in 2009. Both six-speed manual and tiptronic automatic transmissions will be offered with the 2.0-litre TDI 140bhp engine.

Towing capacity 2,000 - 2,200 kg. The rear bench slides fore and aft to liberate extra leg or luggage room, provides seating for three passengers; and when the rear seats are folded away, the Tiguan has a load volume of up to 1,510 litres. Standard equipment features alloy wheels, air conditioning, MP3 compatible CD player, ABS with Hydraulic Brake Assist, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP), head and curtain airbags plus twin front and side airbags among a host of other items.

Options include Volkswagen’s new RNS 510 touchscreen satellite navigation and audio system incorporating special navigation software to allow route guidance while off-road. The Park Assist system which was pioneered on the Touran and takes over steering inputs from the driver whilst undertaking reverse parking manoeuvres is also offered on the Tiguan.

June 2008

In summer 2008 Tiguan engine range to be joined by a new 170bhp TDI engine and range-topping 200bhp TSI.

S 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS6-speed manual £19,370
S 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6-speed manual £20,500
S 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6-speed auto Tiptronic £21,750

SE 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS 6-speed manual £20,670
SE 2.0-litre TSI 170 PS 6-speed manual £22,270*
SE 2.0-litre TSI 170 PS 6-speed auto Tiptronic £22,615*
SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6-speed manual £21,800
SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 5-speed auto Tiptronic £23,050
SE 2.0-litre TDI 170 PS 6-speed manual £23,700*

Sport 2.0-litre TSI 170 PS 6-speed manual £22,870*
Sport 2.0-litre TSI 170 PS 6-speed auto Tiptronic £24,215*
Sport 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6-speed manual £22,500
Sport 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 5-speed auto Tiptronic £23,750
Sport 2.0-litre TDI 170 PS 6-speed manual £23,400*

Escape 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 6-speed manual £22,050
Escape 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 5-speed auto Tiptronic £23,300

Available from 1st February 2008

* 2.0 TSI 170 and TDI 170 From Summer 2008

April 2009

New Tiguan R Line

Based on Sport model with body-coloured front splitter sitting below the front bumper along with a matt chrome grille section. Blistered wheel arches surround new R Line 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels fitted with 255/40 tyres. A set of subtle body-colour sill extensions complete with matt chrome highlights are fitted leading into the new rear bumper complete with a small diffuser element. Finally, a small spoiler sits at the top of the rear window to complete the new look. Inside the Tiguan R Line a new flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel is joined by a set of contoured sports seats complete with logos.

New R Line aluminium pedals and trim. Advanced 2Zone climate control is also fitted as standard in addition to the already comprehensive range of standard equipment fitted to the Sport model. Â This includes four airbags, automatic lights, front fog lights, rain sensors and sports suspension.The new R Line model is available fitted with a range of efficient 2.0-litre TDI common rail diesel engines in 140 PS and 170 PS outputs as well as a 2.0-litre TSI engine developing 200 PS.

The Tiguan R Line can be specified with a choice of five colours; Candy White (pictured), Reflex Silver, Deep Black, Biscay Blue and Mountain Grey. Sales of the new Tiguan R Line are due to start in June. Prices start at £24,635 for the 2.0-litre 140 PS model rising to £26,305 for the 2.0-litre TSI range-topping engine.

May 2010

Tiguan Match announced

Replacing the SE trim level, the new Tiguan Match promises to deliver greater value and equipment to the comprehensive list of comfort and convenience features already fitted to the Tiguan.

The new VW Tiguan Match will add Park Assist, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, climate control, a touchscreen DAB digital radio and a leather multifunction steering wheel. This comes in addition to the existing standard specification which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a six-disc CD autochanger, heat insulating glass from the B-pillar back, six airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and ABS. Costs £250 more than outgoing SE.

The Match is available with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines. The petrol engines are a 1.4-litre TSI unit developing 150 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 170 PS. The diesel variants are based on a 2.0-litre TDI engine with either 140 or 170 PS outputs. Both the 170 PS petrol and the 140 PS diesel engines can now be specified with the newly introduced option of a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

The Tiguan Match is on sale now with a starting price of £22,110 ‘on the road’ RRP for the 1.4-litre TSI BlueMotion Technology model with two-wheel drive. The full Match model line-up is shown below.

Tiguan Match model CO 2 emissions, g/km ‘On the road’ RRP
1.4-litre TSI 150 PS 6 spd manual
BlueMotion Technology 2WD
156 £22,110
1.4-litre TSI 150 PS 6 spd manual 185 £22,845
2.0-litre TSI 170 PS 6 spd manual 199 £23,560
2.0-litre TSI 170 PS 7 spd DSG 199 £24,810
2.0-litreTDI 140 PS 6 spd manual
BlueMotion Technology 2WD
139 £23,195
2.0-litreTDI140 PS 6 spd manual 167 £23,900
2.0-litreTDI140 PS 7 spd DSG 170 £25,300
2.0-litreTDI170 PS 6 spd manual 172 £24,785

July 2011

Revised Tiguan goes on sale

Volkswagen’s revised Tiguan compact SUV went on sale with prices starting from £21,085 and rising to £28,020 (RRP OTR). The first customer deliveries will arrive in the UK in September.

Like the previous model, the latest Tiguan is unique in being available not only with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive, but also with the option of two front ends. One has a front end biased towards on-road driving with an 18 degree angle of approach while an ‘Escape’ model has a 28 degree angle of approach and additional technologies for off-road driving.

Whichever version is chosen, all new Tiguans feature a new look dominated by horizontal lines on the front grille, bringing the model into line with other new Volkswagen models. The Tiguan now also once again bears a strong resemblance to its ‘big brother’ the Touareg. At the rear, new two-part light clusters give the Tiguan a distinctive appearance. Again, similar to those of the Touareg, they form an ‘L’ shape, while the lower border of the lights also follows a horizontal geometry.

Four trim levels available: S, SE, Sport and Escape. All models will be well equipped, with 16-inch alloy wheels, Climatic air conditioning, DAB radio and alarm standard on even the entry-level S. SE adds 17-inch alloys, 2Zone electronic air conditioning, Park Assist, iPod and Bluetooth preparation plus Fatigue Detection system (as fitted to the new Passat) as standard. Sport versions gain multi-function steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity, plus chrome plated roof rails, heat insulated and tinted glass from the B-pillar back, sport seats, front fog lights and sports suspension among other items. The new Escape model features comfort and convenience features (including Bluetooth and multi-function steering wheel) which were not previously available, reflecting a change in customer demands for off-road capability and a high level of equipment.

Six engines are available, three petrol and three diesel, four of which are new to the Tiguan. New engines include a twin-charged 1.4-litre TSI with 160 PS (up from 150 in previous generation), a 2.0-litre TSI with 180 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI with 210 PS (previously 200 PS). Despite the increase in power CO2 emissions have remained as before or improved.

A 2.0-litre TDI 110 PS engine is offered in two-wheel drive and with a CO2 output of 139 g/km. A further two diesel power units are carried over from the previous generation (the 2.0-litre common rail TDI with 140 and 170 PS). All have improved carbon dioxide emissions values: the 170 PS engine now emits 158 rather than 165 g/km; while the 140 PS unit has been improved substantially meaning it is now in a lower VED band (reduction from 164 to 150 g/km manual and 169 to 158 g/km for seven-speed DSG). Diesel engines will account for around 90 per cent of Tiguan sales; the best-selling derivative is expected to be the 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS.

Both the 2.0-litre TDI 110 and 140 PS models, as well as the 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS with two-wheel drive are designated BlueMotion Technology models. As such they feature Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions.

A number of options are available for the first time on the latest Tiguan, including Kessy (Keyless Entry and Start System), the RNS 315 satellite navigation system, Lane Assist (which helps prevent accidents caused by the driver drifting out of the lane) and Light Assist which switches between dipped and main beam depending on oncoming traffic.

Also available as an option is XDS electronic differential lock – as fitted to the Golf GTI. A functional extension of the electronic locks already integrated via ESP, XDS improves handling when driving quickly through bends.

Naturally the latest Tiguan retains all the versatility and practicality for which the previous model was renowned, being a four-door, five-seater. The rear seat (from SE upwards) is a 60:40 split bench that can be adjusted forwards and backwards by up to 16 cm and also reclined, while cargo capacity ranges from 470 to 1,510 litres.

Trim level Engine derivative CO 2 , g/km Price, £ RRP OTR
S 1.4 TSI 160 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 156 21,085
S 1.4 TSI 160 PS 4WD 6spd man 178 21,990
S 2.0 TDI 110 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 139 21,730
S 2.0 TDI 140 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 139 22,280
S 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT 6spd man 150 23,280
S 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT DSG 7spd 158 24,775
SE 1.4 TSI 160 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 156 23,450
SE 1.4 TSI 160 PS 4WD 6spd man 178 24,355
SE 2.0 TSI 180 PS 4WD 6spd man 199 25,185
SE 2.0 TSI 180 PS 4WD DSG 7spd 199 26,675
SE 2.0 TDI 140 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 139 24,645
SE 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT 6spd man 150 25,645
SE 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT DSG 7spd 158 27,170
SE 2.0 TDI 170 PS 4WD 6spd man 158 26,325
Sport 1.4 TSI 160 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 156 23,920
Sport 1.4 TSI 160 PS 4WD 6spd man 178 24,825
Sport 2.0 TSI 180 PS 4WD 6spd man 199 25,655
Sport 2.0 TSI 210 PS 4WD 6spd man 199 26,530
Sport 2.0 TSI 210 PS 4WD DSG 7 Spd 199 28,020
Sport 2.0 TDI 140 PS 2WD BMT 6spd man 139 25,115
Sport 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT 6spd man 150 26,115
Sport 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT DSG 7spd 158 27,640
Sport 2.0 TDI 170 PS 4WD 6spd man 158 26,795
Escape 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT 6spd man 150 25,840
Escape 2.0 TDI 140 PS 4WD BMT DSG 7spd 158 27,335

October 2012

New trim level added to Tiguan line-up, the R-Line, which adds a number of unique and sporty styling touches inside and out.

Since it was added to the range, the Tiguan compact SUV has been a popular choice, with customers purchasing it in large numbers to make it the fourth best-selling Volkswagen after the Golf, Polo and Passat. In the first generation, the R-Line was one of the most popular Tiguan models, accounting for nearly 20 per cent of the total sales. Renewed for the latest model, the R-Line is now expected to be the choice of a quarter of Tiguan customers.

The new Tiguan R-Line is based on the already generous SE trim level, and adds bi-xenon headlights, 18-inch ‘Mallory’ alloy wheels, painted in Sterling Silver with black wheelarch extensions, body-coloured unique front and rear ‘R’ design bumpers and rear spoiler, an R-Line logo on the front grille and aluminium front door sills with R-Line logo. Inside, the theme continues with front sport seats and two-tone upholstery, R-Line logo on the front head restraints, leather multifunction steering wheel with aluminium inlay and R-Line logo and stainless steel pedals.

As befits its sporty styling and position in the range, the R-Line is available with the Tiguan’s three most powerful engines. These are the 2.0-litre TSI with 210 PS and 4MOTION four-wheel drive, plus Volkswagen’s popular 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine with either 140 or 170 PS and 4MOTION. All R-Line models come with a standard six-speed manual gearbox. Carbon dioxide emissions for all models are under 200 g/km: the petrol model emits 199 g/km, while the diesels are at 150 and 158 g/km for the 140 and 170 PS respectively.

On the road prices start at £28,020 for the R-Line 140 PS. There is a £680 premium for the 170 PS diesel, with the petrol model costing £28,435.

August 2013

Special Tiguan Match introduced

Ahead of new 2014 Tiguan, run out special Tiguan Match introduced with £700 worth of extra equipment over SE model but at £450 less.

On top of specification of the outgoing SE, Tiguan Match adds RNS 315 colour touchscreen satellite navigation system and new 17-inch ‘New Orleans’ alloys. Standard Bluetooth, as well as an MDI media interface with leads for iPhone (4 and earlier) and USB. Also a CD/DVD player, SD card provision and DAB digital radio. Multifunction steering wheel (trimmed in leather, just like the gear lever and handbrake) enables operation without taking your hands from the wheel.

Standard 2Zone climate control, folding picnic tables on the backs of the front seats. Standard rear outer seat ISOFIX tethers. The rear seats split 60:40, slide to increase luggage space or legroom as required by up to 16 cm, while backrest angles can be reclined by 23 degrees. Rear seats can also be folded to increase luggage capacity from 470 to 1,510 litres. Front passenger seat backrest can also be folded forwards, to create a load space up to 2.5 metres long for ladders, surf boards, etc. Room for smaller items both in the under-seat drawers and also under the boot floor, alongside the space-saver spare wheel.

The VW Tiguan Match calso comes with the latest Park Assist self-parking system which takes control of the steering wheel to either reverse- or parallel-park the Tiguan into spaces just 1.1 m longer than the vehicle.

The Tiguan Match is available with a wide choice of diesel and petrol engines and gearboxes, from a two-wheel drive 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS petrol to a four-wheel drive 2.0-litre TDI 177 PS turbodiesel, with emissions from just 139 g/km. On the road prices start at £23,245 for the Match 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS.

Engine CO2
g/km
Combined
mpg
ABI
insurance
group
Price, £ RRP OTR
1.4-litre TSI 160 PS 2WD BlueMotion Technology
6 spd manual
156 42.2 18E 23,245
1.4-litre TSI 160 PS 4MOTION 6 spd manual 178 37.2 18E 24,930
2.0-litre TSI 180 PS 4MOTION 6 spd manual 199 33.2 18E 25,770
2.0-litre TSI 180 PS 4MOTION 7 spd DSG 199 32.8 18E 27,260
2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 2WD BlueMotion Technology
6 spd manual
139 53.3 18E £24,440
2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 4MOTION 6 spd manual 150 48.7 18E £26,210
2.0-litre TDI 140 PS 4MOTION 7 spd DSG 158 47.1 18E £27,735
2.0-litre TDI 177 PS 4MOTION 6 spd manual 151 48.7 23E £27,215
2.0-litre TDI 177 PS 4MOTION 7 spd DSG 159 47.1 23E £28,740

October 2014

Volkswagen is boosting the specification of the range-topping Tiguan R-Line model, adding satellite navigation as standard - and giving it an 'on the road' price reduction of £750. This means a value enhancement of nearly £1,500, with prices for the R-Line range now starting at £28,490 (RRP OTR).

April 2015

Factory fitted Convenience Pack available for Tiguan. Combines Keyless Entry, Lane Assist with cruise control and electrically foldable door mirrors for £950 (£1,205 if ordered separately).

What to watch out for

05-06-2011:

Dual Mass Flywheel failures are occurring on later Tiguan automatics fitted with DSGs. No problem with the earlier torque converter automatics.

07-08-2011:

One report of inlet manifold swirl flap failure on a 3 year old 2.0 TDI. Cost £300. The flaps did not come off and wreck the engine.

29-12-2011:

Standard problem of piston failures of 1.4 TSI with both supercharger and turbocharger seems to be occurring. Not universal. Not sufficiently widespread for every owner to worry.

25-09-2013:

Problems with used 60k mile 2010 Tiguan TDI purchased in August 2013: DPF warning lights came on. Filter cleaned. A week later on a hour and a half drive the DPF warning light came on again, some power loss but on restarting this seemed to clear. Catalytic converter warning came on, then engine block warning light came on. Dealer sent to VW franchiser that charged £1,500 to replace the EGR system. Subsequently, ignition warning light on.

07-11-2013:

Soon after a service the auxilary 'V' belt came off the 2.0TDI engine of a 55k mile 2010 Tiguan, taking out the timing belt and causing damage to the engine and turbo that cost £7,200 to rectify. VW dealer paid 50%.

21-02-2014:

Haldex clutch failed at 47k miles on Volkswagen Tiguan. Quoted £1,900 to replace. When this happens, the car still runs in FWD; it just won't get you out of a muddy field. Eventually billed just £319 for the repair.

23-02-2014:

Timing chain of 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI jumped a few cogs at 105k miles, probably due to failure of the tensioner and the fact that the oil and filter had only been changed very 25,000 miles.

30-03-2014:

7-speed DSG of 2013/63 Tiguan 2.0 TDI 177 thumped from delivery and was replaced under warranty.

16-10-2014:

Inertia reel mechanism of driver's seatbelt of 2008 Tiguan sticking and failing to release belt at more then 19 degrees centrigrade. Volkswagen dealers quoting fortunes to replace.

29-08-2015:

Clutch failed on 2012 Tiguan petrol manual (1.4TSI?) at 21,000 miles and just under 3 years old. Replacement cost was £1,733 for clutch, DMF and replacement slave cylinder.

02-11-2015:

2009 Tiguan with EA189 2.0TDI needed new DPF and EGR at 58k miles in 2014. Subsequently at 85k miles the high pressure pump and injectors failed, but this is most likely to be due to bad diesel or filling with petrol.

17-11-2015:

Failed clutch and DMF reported on 18 month old Tiguan 2.0TDI at 25,000 miles.

27-11-2015:

Report of 4 year old 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI automatic with full Volkswagen service history suffering failed piston rings at 19,000 miles. Dealer offered to pay 70% of rectification; Volkswagen refused to pay the other 30%.

12-01-2016:

Aux belt came off engine of 2010 Tiguan 2.0 TDI at 45k miles, wrapped itself around lower crankshaft pulley, took out the timing belt and wrecked the engine. Timing belt and waterpump had been replaced by VW dealer in May 2015, so reassembly could be suspect. Dealer quoting £6k for new engine.

19-01-2016:

Numerous problems reported with new Tiguan R-Line bought July 2015, including a knocking noise coming from the rear of the car. Dealer has had car for 2 weeks now and after numerous calls over that time has not returned owners calls. Owner now wants to reject the car.

01-05-2016:

Clutch and Dual Mass Flywheel of solicitor's 2012/62 Volkswagen Tiguan failed at 35,000 miles resulting in a bill of £1,439.17.

22-05-2016:

Report of failure of centre propshaft bearing on 4WD 2012 Tiguan at 31k miles.

12-07-2016:

Report that NOx software fix to 2014 Tiguan 2.0TDI 140 DSG has resulted in a significant clatter under load at speeds up to 40mph and engine speeds up to 1600rpm. Suggests that the software fix reduces fuelling and therefore torque at low rpm.

20-07-2016:

Report of failure of high pressure diesel injection pump of Tiguan 2.0TDI 4WD at 50,000 miles sending shards of metal into the injectors. No evidence of a manufacturing fault. Could have been caused by a lack of lubricity in the fuel.

11-08-2016:

Another report of a Tiguan TDI, this time a 2012, developing "a horrible rattle in engine when changing up between 2 and 4."

14-08-2016:

Third report of knocking from the engine of a Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI after the EA189 emissions software fix, this time on a 2013 Tiguan.

17-08-2016:

Fourth report of emissions modification to a a 31k mile 2012 Tiguan 2.0 TDI failing and leaving the owner with "a noisy, unresponsive machine completely at odds with the driving experienced prior to modification.

27-08-2016:

Fifth report of rattle from engine of Tiguan 2.0 TDI after the EA189 emissions fix. This was a 2014 Tiguan, performing perfectly before the one and a half hour fix, but started to rattle on the owner's drive home from the dealer.

03-09-2016:

Sixth report of problems after 'emissions fix'.

03-09-2016:

7th failed emissions defeat software remap reported on a Tiguan.

03-09-2016:

8th report of post emissions defeat remap on a Tiguan. The 2012 Tiguan has just has the emissions fix done and it seems down on power.

04-09-2016:

9th report of post emissions defeat remap on a Tiguan: "My Tiguan Sport 2.0 dci 4 Motion Automatic registered Mar 2012 was taken into my dealer who sold me the car for the software update on 06 July 2016. It has under 30,000 miles on the clock. The noise of the engine following the update has become unacceptable. Previously it ran as sweetly as one could have ever expected or hoped but now it 'pinks' every time it is between about 1400 to 1800 revs while under acceleration, particularly if is going up any gradient, particularly between 3rd and 4th gear. In addition the cooling fan seems to be on at all times, or at least it is on when the engine is switched off. How VW can send out a letter jointly headed with VOSA saying that there will be no affect on the car or the fuel consumption is proving unbelievable? I took the car back to the dealer on 13th July 2016 and took an engineer out to listen to the noise but he thought it sounded normal and asked me to log the occasions when it happened. I did and took it back on 16 August 2016. Again I took a different engineer out for a test ride and replicated the noise but he said it would need him to compare my engine sound with another Tiguan. I complained again and was invited to bring the car in for what was said to be an update to the update on 24 Aug. I was then told that the update that was installed on 06 July (stb 9977) was the current version and that they, the dealer, being Lookers of Guildford, would keep it for a week and run tests and liaise with VW. I registered a formal complaint with VW by phone on 24 Aug and they said they would deal with Lookers and monitor the situation when the car was being tested. That test week commences 12 Sept. Neither the dealer or VW will admit there is a system problem or that other owners are having problems. Diesels do not pink unless there is a fault with the ignition system and that is governed by a factory setting. If the fan is running continuously it has to affect the fuel consumption. I have every fuel bill for the last 2 years and know what to expect either on a run or around town.'

06-09-2016:

10th report of problems after emissions defeat software remap, this on a 2013 Tiguan 2.0TDI. Owner received a letter in June 2016 regarding the software update for his Tiguan (RV13 ZDN). He took the vehicle to my local VW dealer White Rose (Petersfield), for what he thought would be a routine procedure, "which, in fact, turned into a nightmare." The vehicle originally went in for what he was told would be an afternoon’s work; that ‘afternoon’ eventually ended up being three weeks. Worse still is that when his vehicle was eventually returned, it wasn’t ‘right’ … and continues not to be ‘right’. But he has told the dealer I will now live with the situation.

20-09-2016:

11th report of problems after emissions defeat software remap, this on a 2013 Tiguan 2.0TDI 4Motion BMT DSG at 21,500 miles. "Car worked perfectly prior to engine software update, which was performed at the end of July during the 3 year service. Symptoms are: Engine exhibits a significant "clatter" under load at speeds up to 40mph /1600 - 2000 rpm; Loss of engine power low down in rev range (up to 2250 rpm); DSG box holds lower gears longer; especially noticeable in 2nd and 3rd, but occurs in 4th and 5th on occasions (very different from original gearbox characteristics); Fuel consumption: seems OK-ish for local, slow journeys, but for motorway driving the fuel consumption is frightening. At 70mph the Avg Fuel consumption display shows between 32 and 33mph over a 20 mile journey. Prior to the software update I would have received 38 to 40mph at least." Reader tried using Shell V-Power for its higher cetane but it did not work.

20-09-2016:

12th report of problems after emissions defeat software remap on a Tiguan 2.0TDI 4Motion DSG. "I've had 2 software updates on my VW Tiguan and had all the symptoms mentioned in previous posts, ie engine knock at low revs , loss of power and engine vibrations etc. The dealership that I bought the car from basically gone into denial mode and insisting the car is running within the parameters but it drives crap nothing like the smooth drive before the update. So I contacted VW customer care and took it to another dealership. They took it on a 5min test drive and confirmed my issues straight away, VW technical requested the test to be carried out and again they said it's operating within the parameters set. How can they backtrack after telling me that they have recognised a fault? What can I do? I'm at my wits end what are my options now?" The two updates are 23R7 9977 and 23R7 9978. All recorded at. In the USA when the cars cannot be fixed, VW is being compelled to buy them back at market price. It may be that this can be used un UK courts to force WW to do the same here. The strange thing is that. so far, the only problems with the fix have been with Tiguan 2.0TDIs and with the 1.2TDI engine.

01-10-2016:

13th report of Tiguan TDI malfunctioning after emissions recall. 2012 Tiguan 2.0 TDI 140 Bluemotion 4m had its emission update (23R7) completed in June. Next day owners wife compared engine noise to a rattling canteen of cutlery. VW dealer immediately acknowledged a rattle was noticeable when the DSG changed up through the low gears. Asked for a loan car and VW in Germany agreed owner should be kept mobile, so for ten days we had use of a Passat while they kept the Tiguan. On our return owner told car had had a further update. Terrible clatter had gone but the engine was not as quiet as it was pre 23R7, and in recent weeks appears to be getting generally noisier. The car has been filled almost exclusively with Shell V Power and BP Ultimate from new so poor grade fuel can not be the cause. Also, the DSG has never operated smoothly. Momentary pause when moving of, and reluctance to accelerate smoothly through low gears continue to frustrate yet dealer refuses to acknowledge these as faults.

10-10-2016:

14th report received of engine rattle similar to 'pinking' on a Tiguan 2.0TDI after the emissions software update. This car was a 2013 model.

17-10-2016:

Misfiring/juddering reported from engine of 2009/59 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI that had been building up for a couple of years. Car always fully maintained on schedule by a VW dealer. No OBDII fault codes, so dealer stripped engine down and found it needed work at a discounted £3,755.46. (Guessing cokes up inlet valves, but must have needced more than that.)

26-10-2016:

Report from reader that 4th letter from VW regarding emissions defeat software fix received stating that fix for his Tiguan 2.0TDI still isn't ready.

09-11-2016:

15th report of failed software update on a 2012/62 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 4-Motion. Reader took car to loacal VW dealer after received a letter from VW stating ACTION REQUIRED. Afteer the work, she noticed that the car felt sluggish/noisier/less sharp in performance and fuel consumption had increased probably 15%. When she returned the car for diagnostics they found the "clutch pump" was malfunctioning. She agreed to its replacement at a cost of £435. When she collected the car she did not find any improvement in its performance so rang the dealer telling him. He basically lied, stating that they "had no problems with other Tiguans and that anyway the emissions update had not been compulsory." She asked if the previous tune could be re-instated so she could get her performance back, but was told this was not possible. She then contacted VW Customer Care for advice via the telephone line on the VW letter Action required. She was told that although certain 2L vehicles had been called in that VW had now received the final writtten clearance from KBA (Germany) for the software and that they had not had any Tiguans reported as adversely affected that did not have another fault. She was also told that the procedure was ‘not compulsory’ so she challenged the letter stating Action required.

22-11-2016:

'Klunk' reported from front driveshaft of 2014 VW Tiguan when reversing with full left hand lock down ever since new and never rectified by the supplying dealer.

27-11-2016:

16th report of problems following Emissions defeat remap on a VW Tiguan 2.0TDI: "Left the car with a noisier engine. It used to be nice and smooth and now it is like a growling noise especially when pulling under load. It sounds like a sports exhaust or a blowing exhaust but it is coming from the front. It is a 2011 2.0tdi bluemotion / 4motion and has only done 26k miles with full five years VW service at same VW garage. Dealer denies any problems.

03-12-2016:

17th report of problems following Emissions defeat remap on a VW Tiguan 2.0TDI: "We bought a 62 plate Tiguan 2.0tdi 4motion in February with 32k miles. It had the emissions fix in August and has been a bit lumpy and not as refined since. This week it stopped and the engine has seized (currently under investigation). It started making a tapping noise for a short time then gave two fan belt type squeals and just died, only about a mile or so of driving from tapping to death. 39,500 miles on the clock."

05-12-2016:

Complaint of infrequent entry into "limp mode" with EPC and exhaust warning lights lit on occasions of 2009 VW Tiguan 2.0TSI. Stopping and re-starting re-set it until it went into limp and would not re-set. VW dealer diagnosed that replacement of entire inlet manifold together with oil and filter change at a cost of £840. Less than a month later the car again entered limp mode and the dealer advised that the throttle body must now be replaced. We think another possibility is coking up of the inlet valves that is common with this engine until the major revise of the EA888 2.0TSI in 2013 that brought with it indirect as well as direct injection so some fuel still enteres via the inlet valves and has the effect of cleaning them.

09-12-2016:

Report of clutch slipping and oil leak from transmission of 2011 Tiguan at 49,000 miles shortly after NOx emissions remap. Dealer charged £83 for a tow in, £73 for diagnostics (to pinpoint a clutch failure?) then told owner it is is a known problem which has affected Tiguans, Golfs and Passats. He stated VW will pay 70% of the price of parts and 50% labour however this could owner having to pay £1,100. That would cover the replacement of clutch , flywheel and gearbox if all 3 are effected. There had been been no warning of this and the car has light use.

24-01-2017:

Report of rear nearside coil spring of 56k mile 2011 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI auto 4WD shattering while car was parked. Front suspension bushes also needed to be replaced.

08-02-2017:

Report of 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI being recalled for emissions fix and subsequently suffering an increase in fuel consumption. Point made that after the fix these engines actively regenerate their DPFs much more frequently and this may account for the increase in fuel consumed. A further concern is that if engines are switched off mid-regeneration then some of the extra fuel injected into the engine to promote regeneration may dribble down the bores, contaminating the engine oil and raising its level.

08-02-2017:

Report of 2014 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI being recalled for emissions fix in October 2016. Owner immediately noticed loss of mpg when driving down a slight incline with foot off accelerator in 3 or 4 gear, and revs drops to 1,250 -1,500revs, and you start to accelerate, sometimes gets a juddering feeling through the accelerator and seat. EGR failure a couple of months after the update. DPF is regenerating once per week, more ofter than ever before. Change down gear symbol on the instrument panel rarely comes on any more. Acceleration from low revs is not as good as before. EGR was replaced free as car is still under warranty. Both VW UK and dealer refuse to tell owner exactly what parameters they have changed in the car's ECU.

27-03-2017:

Report of loss of compression of 1.4TSI engine of 2010 VW Tiguan at 65,000 miles. Problems started in November 2016 when catalytic converter light came on and car was taken to a local garage. Garage checked and told owner it had low fompression and owner should take it to a dealer as a car of that mileage shouldn’t require a new engine. No charge by local garage. Car taken to VW dealer in November. They tested it and said it was a problem with the Control Manifold and fixed it at a cost of £150. They did not check the compression. Then in Merch 2017 the light came back on, owner took it to the VW dealer and after agreeing another £200 for investigation, they finally told owner it had low compression and needed a new engine. VW offered no goodwill. VW dealer reduced the price of a new engine from £8k to £6.5k. We referred owner to http://www.fer.co.uk for a possible rebuilt of the engine that might be possible if the fault was merely carbon build up on the valves.

18-05-2017:

Report of repeated faults with 2015 Volkswagen Tiguan. Problems began in March 2017 with a coolant leak. Different VW dealer from supplying dealer told owner to keep filling it up until they had time to take it in. Owner took it back to supplying deaer who fitted a new expansion tank. A few days later more lights were flashing on the dashboard and once again the car wasn't safe to drive. Supplier picked the car up and fitted a whole new engine. I week later engine lost power on the motorway. Owner tried to reject the car to the dealer and to the finance company. They refused, saying it was more than 6 months old, but agreed to contact Volkswagen.

25-07-2017:

Heavy oil conrumption of 1 litre every 2 - 4 weeks reported from 2012 VW Tiguan with original EA888 2.0TFSI engine engine.

14-08-2017:

Report of VW Tiguan EA189 TDI back to dealer three times post-fix because cat converter light keeps coming on.

15-08-2017:

Report of VW Tiguan EA189 TDI losting power fafter NOx emissions fix, seeming to stall and finally going into limp home mode. Dealer can't take it back to fix it (replace the EGR) for more than 2 weeks.

24-08-2017:

Report of 2013 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI getting NOx emissions fix in early July. Has now gone into limp mode "dashboard lit up like a xmas tree". Owner took it back to VW. After they had it for a day they told him it was the wiring loom so they kept it for another day. He picked up the car and it was ok for 6 days then back into limp mode with the dashboard lights back on again.

18-09-2017:

Clutch slave cylinder of 2011 VW Tiguan failed at 23,000 miles. VW dealer quoted £900 for replacement, presumably clutch as well as slave cylinder.

06-10-2017:

Report of repeat problems with EGR of 2013 VW Tiguan TDI 2WD purchased in May 2016. NOx emissions fix carried out in November 2016. MoT passed May 2017. Dash light came on 5th June 2017, but misunderstanding with VW dealer so took it to local garage who fitted new EGR for £600. Then in August 2017 after 2k miles dash light came on again and EGR turned out not to be warranted so they had tyo take the car to the previously unhelpful VW dealer who fitted a replacement EGR FoC. Then late September 2017 dash light came on again, VW dealer checked, found the EGR had failed again and still has the car trying to make it work.

02-01-2018:

Report of continual problems with 2012 Tiguan since NOx emissions fix on 28th November 2016. First problem 3 December 2016 and thereafter repeated at regular 3 month intervals until the last incidence on 12 December 2017. Each incidence characterised by lumpy running, to the point of almost cutting out, then the engine management warning light coming on and when the fault was investigated it was discovered that various components were severely sooted up. Each time the dealer repaired it on a goodwill basis albeit sometimes only after owner indicated my dissatisfaction. Now at 50,000 miles owner wants a permanent solution.

01-09-2018:

Report of leak from factory fitted panoramic sunroof of Tiguan SE R-Line TDI purchased new in October 2012. The leak is on the drivers’ side with water seeping down the head lining into the floor well.

30-11-2018:

Report of Dual Mass Flywheel of 2012 Tiguan 2.0TDi 140 DSG 4Motion BlueMotion failing at 55,000 miles.

22-12-2018:

Report of leak thought to be from factory fitted sunroof of 2009 Tiguan. Initially flooded footwell behind the driver’s seat, then all bar the one behind the front passenger seat, now all 4.

17-04-2019:

Report of 2012 Tiguan 2.0 TDI failing MoT at 91,000 miles. Needed all brake discs and pads replaced, plus front suspension bushes. Soon after one of the rear coil springs failed.

10-06-2019:

Report of a/c compressor of 2015 Tiguan shearing off at its fixings at 30,000 miles and costing £836 to replace.

23-06-2019:

Report of failure of mechatronics of 7-speed wet clutch DQ500 DSG transmission of 2014 Tiguan 2.0 TDI 140 4Motion at 34,000 miles.

07-10-2019:

Report of 2013 Tiguan 4Motion having NOx emissions 'fix' in January 2017.

25-10-2019:

Report of 46,000 mile 2013 Tiguan 2.0 TDI 4WD needing a "replacement propshaft" at a cost of £1500.

06-12-2019:

Report of EGR Valve coking up on 2002 Tiguan 2.0 TDI and costing £1200 to replace. The reader did not specify if this occurred witin the 2 year 'Restoring Trust' warranty against consequential issued following the NOx fix.

22-01-2020:

Another report of wet roof lining in 2008 Tiguan with a sunroof. Mould has formed inside the car and it smells. A garage suggested the drainage pipes (running from roof to floor) could be blocked.

01-07-2022:

DSG gearbox failure reported on 2016 Tiguan DSG 4Motion.

What does the Volkswagen Tiguan (2008 – 2016) cost?