2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Review | Family SUV With Modern Features

The Volkswagen Tiguan has long been one of Australia’s favourite family SUVs, bridging the gap between everyday practicality and European sophistication. For 2025, Volkswagen has refined the formula even further. With updates to design, technology, safety, and performance, the new Tiguan is positioned to remain a go-to choice for Australian drivers who want comfort and style without compromising on capability.

This review takes an in-depth look at what the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan brings to the table for Aussie buyers. From interior features and advanced driver-assist systems to powertrains, fuel efficiency, and ownership value, we’ll cover everything families and enthusiasts need to know.

Exterior Design: European Elegance Meets SUV Practicality

The new Tiguan carries forward Volkswagen’s familiar styling language, but with sharper edges and a modernised stance.

• Front Fascia: The 2025 Tiguan features a bolder front grille with slimmer LED headlights, now standard across the range. Matrix LED options add adaptive lighting technology for improved safety at night.

• Proportions: While still compact enough for urban driving, the Tiguan’s slightly stretched wheelbase translates into better interior space for families.

• Wheels & Styling Options: Buyers can choose from a variety of alloy wheel designs, ranging from 18-inch practical sets to sporty 20-inch options on higher trims.

• Colour Palette: Volkswagen Australia offers a palette that blends family-friendly neutrals (white, grey, black) with vibrant hues like Atlantic Blue and Kings Red Metallic.

In short, the Tiguan balances European elegance with rugged SUV practicality, making it equally at home in city car parks and on coastal road trips.

Interior Comfort: A Cabin Built for Families

One of the Tiguan’s strongest selling points has always been its interior, and the 2025 model elevates the experience.

Space and Seating

• Seating Configuration: The Tiguan offers both five-seat and optional seven-seat Allspace variants, catering to small and larger families alike.

• Passenger Comfort: Improved ergonomics, softer materials, and more supportive seating ensure long drives remain comfortable. Heated and ventilated seats are available in higher trims.

• Cargo Space: With the second row folded, the Tiguan offers generous cargo capacity—more than enough for prams, sports gear, or holiday luggage.

Technology Inside the Cabin

• Digital Cockpit Pro: Standard across the range, providing crisp, configurable displays.

• Infotainment System: 12.9-inch touchscreen in premium trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Voice Control & Gesture Functions: An upgraded system allows for more intuitive control, reducing distraction.

• Connectivity: Multiple USB-C ports, wireless charging, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability keep the family connected.

Volkswagen has struck a balance between minimalism and practicality, ensuring that the Tiguan feels premium without overwhelming drivers with unnecessary complexity.

Performance: Engines, Handling, and Efficiency

Australian buyers will have several engine options in the 2025 Tiguan, catering to different driving needs.

Petrol Engines

• 1.5 TSI Evo2: Entry-level option with mild-hybrid technology, balancing fuel efficiency with everyday usability.

• 2.0 TSI: Turbocharged option available in sporty trims, offering more power for highway overtakes and towing.

Diesel Options

• 2.0 TDI: Expected to remain for certain trims, appealing to long-distance drivers seeking fuel efficiency and torque for towing.

Hybrid Variants

• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Rumoured for the Australian market in late 2025, with an electric-only range of around 100 km, ideal for city commutes with zero emissions.

Driving Dynamics

The Tiguan’s handling remains one of its strong points. Volkswagen’s MQB Evo platform ensures stability, responsive steering, and comfort over long distances. Adaptive suspension is available in higher trims, allowing drivers to toggle between comfort and sport modes.

Safety: Protecting What Matters Most

For Australian families, safety is non-negotiable, and the 2025 Tiguan doesn’t disappoint.

Standard Safety Features

• Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection

• Lane Assist with steering intervention

• Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality

• Rear cross-traffic alert

• Driver fatigue detection

Advanced Features

Higher trims bring additional systems such as:

• Travel Assist (semi-autonomous driving support)

• 360-degree surround-view camera

• Park Assist Plus (self-parking functionality)

• Intersection assist

The Tiguan is expected to maintain its 5-star ANCAP safety rating, making it a top pick for families who prioritise peace of mind on the road.

Technology & Features: The Modern SUV Advantage

Beyond safety, the Tiguan is packed with features that make everyday driving easier.

• Augmented Reality Head-Up Display: Projects navigation and key info onto the windscreen.

• Smart Climate Control: Customisable profiles that remember preferred settings.

• Harman Kardon Premium Audio: Available in higher trims, transforming road trips into concert-like experiences.

• Over-the-Air Updates: Ensures infotainment and safety systems stay current.

Volkswagen has clearly focused on ensuring that the Tiguan feels future-ready, even as driver needs evolve.

Fuel Economy and Ownership Costs

Fuel efficiency remains a priority for Australian buyers, particularly as fuel prices fluctuate.

• The 1.5 TSI mild-hybrid claims around 6.5L/100km.

• The 2.0 TDI diesel hovers around 5.5L/100km, making it the best option for long-distance driving.

• The plug-in hybrid (once launched) could reduce running costs drastically for city dwellers.

In terms of ownership, Volkswagen Australia offers:

• 5-year/unlimited km warranty

• Pre-paid servicing packages for predictable maintenance costs

• Roadside assistance coverage during the warranty period

This ensures that the Tiguan remains competitive not only at purchase but also throughout ownership.

Comparing the Tiguan: How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

The midsize SUV market in Australia is competitive, with strong players like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage.

• Toyota RAV4: Known for hybrid efficiency but lacks some of the Tiguan’s premium interior touches.

• Mazda CX-5: Stylish and engaging to drive, though cargo space is smaller compared to Tiguan.

• Hyundai Tucson: Feature-rich, but Volkswagen’s European refinement sets the Tiguan apart.

• Kia Sportage: Strong value proposition with long warranty, but Tiguan offers a more premium feel.

For buyers seeking a balance between practicality, premium touches, and technology, the Tiguan holds its ground impressively.

Trim Levels and Pricing Expectations

Volkswagen Australia is expected to offer several trims for the 2025 Tiguan:

• Life (base model): Well-equipped with essential safety and infotainment features.

• Elegance: Adds comfort features like leather upholstery and adaptive suspension.

• R-Line: Sportier styling with more powerful engine options.

• Allspace: Seven-seat variant for larger families.

While official pricing will vary depending on launch timing and exchange rates, expect the Tiguan to start around $46,000 AUD, with higher trims pushing beyond $65,000 AUD.

Maintenance & Ownership: Living With the Tiguan

Beyond the showroom, the Tiguan’s ownership experience matters.

• Servicing Intervals: Typically every 12 months or 15,000 km.

• Reliability: Volkswagen has improved its reputation for reliability in recent years, and the Tiguan benefits from proven MQB underpinnings.

• Resale Value: Strong demand in the used-car market ensures Tiguan retains good value, especially for well-maintained models.

Families looking for long-term ownership will find the Tiguan a sensible and dependable choice.

Verdict: Is the 2025 Tiguan Right for You?

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan represents one of the most well-rounded family SUVs available in Australia. With its blend of modern design, cutting-edge technology, spacious comfort, and strong safety credentials, it ticks all the boxes for families who want a reliable, stylish, and future-ready vehicle.

Whether you’re navigating city streets, tackling weekend getaways, or planning long-distance road trips, the Tiguan adapts with ease. It isn’t the cheapest option in its class, but for those willing to pay a little more for European refinement and advanced features, it’s a standout choice.