Volkswagen Tiguan Review | SUV Features | Specs | Price in Australia

The Volkswagen Tiguan has long been a nameplate synonymous with balance — not too large, not too small, and not too flashy — but incredibly well-rounded. For 2025, Volkswagen has refined its mid-size SUV even further, introducing more technology, comfort, and refinement to suit modern Australian families.

In Australia, the Tiguan competes in one of the most hotly contested SUV categories, going head-to-head with popular models like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. Yet despite strong competition, the Tiguan continues to hold its ground as one of the best all-round SUVs, thanks to its European build quality, premium features, and engaging drive feel.

This detailed review unpacks everything you need to know about the Volkswagen Tiguan — from its model range, performance, and technology, to comfort, practicality, and value.

Model Range and Variants in Australia

Volkswagen’s approach to the Tiguan range has always been about flexibility. The 2025 line-up caters to a wide range of budgets and needs, from the affordable and efficient 110TSI Life to the high-performance Tiguan R that delivers hot-hatch-like performance in SUV form.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what buyers can expect in Australia:

• Tiguan 110TSI Life – Entry-level variant powered by a 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine, front-wheel drive, and a smooth dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
• Tiguan 132TSI Life 4Motion – Adds more power and all-wheel drive for added confidence on varied terrain.
• Tiguan 162TSI Elegance / R-Line – Steps up to a 2.0-litre turbo engine, advanced AWD, and a strong mix of luxury and sport styling.
• Tiguan 235TSI R – The range-topper, boasting blistering power, sports suspension, and track-ready dynamics.

For Australian drivers, these choices mean there’s a Tiguan suited for every lifestyle — whether it’s a suburban family vehicle or a performance SUV for long road trips.

Exterior Design: Modern, Confident and Functional

The 2025 Tiguan takes a significant design leap while maintaining Volkswagen’s signature clean lines. Up front, a wider grille with slim LED headlights gives it a sleek yet assertive presence. The sharp crease lines, aerodynamic proportions, and sculpted side panels help the Tiguan look refined and athletic without being over-styled.

Volkswagen’s attention to detail is evident in every variant. Base models include LED lighting and alloy wheels, while higher trims get adaptive Matrix LED headlights, sportier bumpers, and larger wheels up to 20 inches. The R-Line and R versions add aggressive styling cues, gloss-black trims, and lower-stance bumpers that transform the SUV’s overall appearance.

From a practical standpoint, the Tiguan’s dimensions hit the sweet spot. It offers a strong road presence yet remains compact enough for easy city manoeuvring and parking. The elevated stance provides a confident driving view, and roof rails come standard — perfect for weekend adventures across Australia.

Interior Design and Cabin Comfort

Step inside the Tiguan, and it’s clear that Volkswagen has invested heavily in interior refinement. The cabin feels premium without crossing into luxury-car territory — soft-touch surfaces, elegant stitching, and a minimalist dashboard give it a sophisticated European feel.

Front passengers enjoy supportive, ergonomically-shaped seats with multiple adjustment options. Even long drives across the outback or coastal highways are comfortable, with good lumbar support and well-positioned armrests. Rear passengers get generous legroom and headroom, with adjustable recline on the back seats — a thoughtful touch for families.

Storage spaces are abundant: large door bins, deep centre console cubbies, and well-placed cupholders make everyday practicality seamless. The boot offers around 652 litres of cargo space, expanding to more than 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded. It’s a proper family hauler that easily fits luggage, prams, and sports gear.

Technology and Infotainment

Volkswagen’s latest infotainment system is front-and-centre in the Tiguan cabin. A large touchscreen (up to 12.9 inches on higher variants) dominates the dash, offering crisp graphics, fast response times, and intuitive controls. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in navigation, voice control, and digital vehicle settings.

Behind the steering wheel, a fully digital instrument cluster — the Digital Cockpit Pro — replaces traditional dials with configurable layouts. Drivers can customise the display to show navigation maps, trip info, or performance data.

Other standout tech features include:

• Ambient lighting with multiple colour choices.
• Wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports.
• Three-zone climate control for individual comfort.
• Keyless entry and push-button start.
• Advanced driver-assistance systems with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and parking sensors.

The result is a cabin that feels connected, modern, and easy to live with — perfect for tech-minded Australian drivers.

Engine, Performance and Driving Dynamics

Under the bonnet, the Tiguan range provides an excellent mix of power and efficiency. Volkswagen continues its tradition of turbocharged engines that balance strong performance with everyday usability.

• 1.4-litre Turbo (110TSI) – Delivers 110 kW and 250 Nm of torque. Smooth, efficient, and ideal for city and highway driving.
• 2.0-litre Turbo (132TSI & 162TSI) – Offers 132–162 kW of power and up to 350 Nm of torque. All-wheel drive versions deliver excellent grip and performance in wet or rough conditions.
• 2.0-litre Turbo (235TSI R) – The powerhouse with around 235 kW and 420 Nm, paired with 4Motion AWD and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox.

Performance is one of the Tiguan’s strong suits. Steering is precise, the chassis feels well-balanced, and body control through corners is superb for an SUV of this size. The suspension strikes a good compromise between comfort and sportiness, soaking up uneven Australian roads with confidence.

All-wheel-drive versions offer better traction on gravel, sand or wet tarmac — ideal for country trips or light off-roading. For those who crave power, the Tiguan R delivers a thrilling 0-100 km/h sprint in under 5 seconds — impressive by any SUV standard.

Ride Comfort and Refinement

On the road, the Tiguan is quiet and composed. Cabin insulation is excellent, keeping out wind and tyre noise even at highway speeds. The suspension feels well-tuned for Australian conditions — soft enough to absorb potholes, firm enough to maintain stability through fast bends.

Even base models offer a level of refinement that stands above many mainstream rivals. The R-Line and R variants further enhance comfort with adaptive suspension that lets drivers choose between Normal, Comfort, and Sport modes.

The result? A relaxed, confidence-inspiring drive that feels equally at home in city traffic or on long open roads.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Volkswagen’s safety record remains strong, and the Tiguan continues that tradition. The SUV is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents.

Key safety features include:

• Front Assist with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring.
• Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go function.
• Lane Keeping Assist (Lane Assist) and Blind-Spot Monitoring.
• Rear Traffic Alert and 360-degree camera system.
• Emergency Assist that detects driver fatigue and can intervene if necessary.
• Multiple airbags, ISOFIX anchors, and a reinforced passenger safety cell.

While official ANCAP ratings for the newest model are pending, previous generations scored the full 5 stars, and given the level of technology, similar safety performance is expected.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Fuel efficiency is increasingly important for Australian buyers, and the Tiguan performs well across its range.

• The 110TSI averages around 7.0 L/100 km, ideal for city use.
• The 132TSI and 162TSI versions return roughly 8.0–8.5 L/100 km combined.
• The Tiguan R, with its performance-focused setup, averages around 9.0–9.5 L/100 km — reasonable given its output.

All engines use premium unleaded fuel. The balance between performance and economy means owners can enjoy spirited driving without severe fuel bills.

Volkswagen provides a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and 12-month / 15,000 km service intervals. Pre-paid service packs are available, making ownership costs predictable.

Practicality and Everyday Use

Practicality has always been a core strength of the Tiguan. The wide-opening rear doors make child-seat installation easy, while the sliding second-row seats provide flexibility for passengers or extra boot space.

Storage throughout the cabin is excellent:

• Deep door bins that hold large bottles.
• Twin gloveboxes in some variants.
• Clever under-seat drawers on select trims.
• A flat load floor when seats are folded, making bulky items easy to carry.

For families, the Tiguan makes daily life easy — grocery runs, school drop-offs, or weekend road trips. It’s also capable of towing small trailers or boats, with a braked towing capacity of up to 2,200 kg (depending on engine).

Comparison with Rivals

The Volkswagen Tiguan sits in a segment crowded with top performers, but its premium engineering helps it stand apart.

Essentially, the Tiguan appeals to buyers wanting a slightly more premium, European-flavoured SUV without the cost of an Audi Q5 or BMW X3.

Ownership Experience in Australia

Volkswagen has steadily strengthened its support network across Australia. Servicing can be done through authorised dealers nationwide, with transparent pricing and service plans. The brand also offers a solid roadside-assistance program for peace of mind during long drives.

Resale values for the Tiguan remain strong due to its reputation for reliability, quality, and European appeal. Many owners appreciate that the Tiguan feels as solid at 80,000 km as it did when new.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Premium cabin materials and build quality.
• Balanced performance and refined handling.
• Excellent interior practicality and comfort.
• Comprehensive safety features.
• Tech-rich infotainment system with digital cockpit.

Cons

• No hybrid or plug-in option yet for Australia.
• Higher servicing costs than some Japanese rivals.
• Base engine feels modest for enthusiasts.
• Fuel efficiency lags behind hybrids like the RAV4.

Final Verdict

The Volkswagen Tiguan remains one of the most complete mid-size SUVs on the Australian market. It perfectly blends style, practicality, and driving enjoyment in a way few rivals can match. Whether you’re a family needing space or a driver who values refinement and technology, the Tiguan delivers across the board.

Its strengths lie in its solid engineering, premium feel, and balanced dynamics. While it may not be the cheapest SUV in its class, the extra investment translates into quality, safety, and long-term satisfaction.

For 2025, Volkswagen has modernised the Tiguan without losing its character. The new model looks sharper, drives smoother, and remains a benchmark for what a mid-size SUV should be — capable, comfortable, and confident on Australian roads.

If you’re exploring options in the A$45,000–A$75,000 range, the Volkswagen Tiguan deserves a place high on your shortlist.