Volkswagen’s second-generation Tiguan made a significant impact in North America, becoming a top-selling model for the brand. Known for its sleek design, premium interior, and agile handling, it quickly gained popularity among crossover enthusiasts. The success of the 2018 Tiguan, which I personally owned and enjoyed, set high expectations for the new 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan.
The third-generation Tiguan retains its distinctive identity but introduces a more upscale exterior with larger wheels and a bold front fascia. Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with a revamped design, customizable ambient lighting, and a massive infotainment screen. Volkswagen aimed to elevate the Tiguan’s status by offering features like exclusive massaging seats, catering to a more refined clientele.
While the new Tiguan boasts enhanced aesthetics and technology, some critics, including myself, find its design overly flashy and lacking the understated charm of its predecessor. The abundance of exterior embellishments, such as illuminated badges and a prominent grille, may overshadow the model’s original appeal. The previous Tiguan’s timeless design is favored by many for its classic elegance and enduring allure.
Internally, the new Tiguan presents a mixed bag of improvements. Visually striking elements like diamond-stitched seats and premium materials elevate the interior’s aesthetics. However, certain components, such as door handles and console details, seem less refined compared to the previous model. Despite these discrepancies, the inclusion of thoughtful features like a sliding armrest borrowed from the GTI adds a touch of sportiness to the cabin.
Volkswagen addressed user feedback by revising certain usability aspects, such as replacing haptic touch controls with physical buttons. The touchscreen interface now offers fixed shortcuts for climate and vehicle settings, enhancing user convenience. However, the introduction of an unconventional column-mounted electronic shifter has sparked criticism for its awkward operation and cheap appearance, deviating from the brand’s renowned ergonomic standards.
Despite these ergonomic setbacks, the driving experience of the new Tiguan remains commendable. While steering responsiveness may have slightly diminished from the previous model, the vehicle’s handling and performance are still impressive. Equipped with larger wheels and improved suspension, the 2025 Tiguan delivers a comfortable ride even on challenging terrains, striking a balance between agility and comfort that appeals to a wide range of drivers.
In a fiercely competitive compact crossover segment, the Tiguan distinguishes itself with a compelling blend of performance and features. With a starting price comparable to its rivals, the new Tiguan offers robust standard equipment, advanced technology, and a powerful turbocharged engine. These enhancements, coupled with its refined interior and enhanced driving dynamics, position the Tiguan as a strong contender in its class.
While personal preferences may vary, the 2025 Tiguan’s refined design, enhanced features, and improved performance are likely to resonate with consumers seeking a versatile and upscale crossover. Despite facing challenges in the current market landscape, Volkswagen’s strategic upgrades to the Tiguan demonstrate a commitment to meeting evolving consumer demands and maintaining a competitive edge in the automotive industry.
📰 Related Articles
- Volkswagen Unveils 2025 Tiguan: Enhanced Features and Competitive Pricing
- Kia Unveils 2025 EV6 GT: Enhanced Power and Luxury Features
- Honda ZR-V 2025 Lineup: Prices Drop, Features Enhanced
- 2025 Kia Sportage Facelift: Enhanced Design and Technology Revealed
- Toyota Unveils Ninth-Gen Camry: Petrol-Hybrid Sedan with Enhanced Features