The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, and for years, Volkswagen’s Tiguan has been a compelling, if not always dominant, player. The original model was the “GTI of SUVs”—sporty, turbocharged, and fun. Its successor grew in size and sales but lost its spark for driving enthusiasts. Now, with the all-new third-generation model, Volkswagen aims to strike a perfect balance. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is positioned as the “Goldilocks” of the family—not too big, not too small, and now, with a significant power boost that demands attention.
This review dives deep into the 2025 Tiguan to answer one burning question: Has Volkswagen successfully created a premium, engaging compact SUV that feels like a budget Audi for the masses?
An Evolutionary Yet Striking Exterior
The third-generation Tiguan, introduced for the 2025 model year, features a complete design overhaul that leans into a sophisticated, almost premium aesthetic. It’s a handsome vehicle that manages to stand out in a crowded parking lot without resorting to overly aggressive styling.
Front Profile
The front end is dominated by a sleek LED light bar that connects the sharp, adaptive IQ.LED headlights, framing the illuminated Volkswagen logo. The lower fascia features functional air intakes and gloss black accents, giving it a wide, planted stance. Many observers note a familial resemblance to the larger, premium Volkswagen Touareg, which is no bad thing.
The Goldilocks Proportions
Volkswagen has nailed the dimensions this time. The first-generation Tiguan was often criticized for being too small, while the second generation grew perhaps a bit too large. The 2025 model finds the sweet spot, with an overall length of 184.6 inches riding on a 109.9-inch wheelbase. This makes it slightly longer than a Toyota RAV4 but comparable to a Honda CR-V, offering an ideal blend of maneuverability and interior space.
Side and Rear Design
Clean lines characterize the side profile. The signature feature on higher trims is the large 20-inch alloy wheels with an attractive two-tone, five-spoke design. At the rear, a full-width LED taillight bar mirrors the front, complete with an illuminated logo. The design is clean and modern, though some may find the faux vent detailing on the rear bumper and the hidden exhaust tips a bit conservative.
An Interior That Rivals Luxury Brands
Step inside the 2025 Tiguan, and you’ll immediately understand the “budget Audi” comparisons. Volkswagen has invested heavily in creating a cabin that feels a generation ahead of many mainstream rivals.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Materials & Craftsmanship | High-quality soft-touch plastics, real American walnut wood trim, and Verona premium leather with quilted stitching and contrast piping create a truly upscale environment. The doors feature soft-touch surfaces and illuminated sections. |
| Infotainment System | The centerpiece is a massive, standard 12.9-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 15 inches). It runs Volkswagen’s latest MIB4 software, which is responsive and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The graphics are sharp, and the menu logic is intuitive. |
| Digital Displays | A standard 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster sits behind the steering wheel, offering clear and customizable information. It integrates seamlessly with the available head-up display. |
| Ergonomics & Controls | A welcome return to physical (or haptic) controls for volume and drive modes via a central dial is a much-appreciated feature. The climate control is managed through responsive touch sliders, a step up from purely capacitive buttons. |
| Comfort & Space | The 2025 model sheds the available third row, focusing on a spacious and comfortable five-passenger layout. Rear legroom is generous, and the rear windows roll down completely—a small but appreciated detail. |
Standout Premium Features:
- Massaging Seats: In a segment first, the top-tier SEL R-Line trim offers 10-point massaging, heated, and ventilated seats for both the driver and front passenger. The quality of the massage function is genuinely impressive and rivals systems found in vehicles costing thousands more.
- Panoramic Sunroof: A large panoramic sunroof is standard on high trims and floods the cabin with light.
- Ambient Lighting: A multi-color ambient lighting system with a unique “star” pattern on the dashboard adds to the premium atmosphere at night.
Powertrain and Performance: The Heart of the Matter
The 2025 Tiguan marks a significant shift under the hood. While it launched with a base 2.0L turbocharged engine making 201 horsepower, the focus is now on the new, more powerful variant.
| Specification | Base 2.0L Turbo | Upgraded 2.0L Turbo (SEL R-Line) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 (EA888 Evo 4) | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 (EA888 Evo 5) |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 268 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Standard FWD, Optional AWD | Standard 4MOTION AWD |
| 0-60 mph (Est.) | ~8.4 seconds | ~6.5 seconds (Manufacturer est.) |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 22 city / 29 hwy / 25 combined | 22 city / 29 hwy / 25 combined |
What the New Powertrain Means:
The star of the show for the 2025 model year is the new EA888 Evo5 engine, available exclusively on the SEL R-Line trim. This isn’t just a tune; it’s a mechanical overhaul featuring a larger turbocharger, stronger internal components, and revised engine software, producing a class-leading 268 horsepower. Remarkably, it achieves this while running on regular unleaded gasoline and maintaining the same fuel economy as the less powerful base engine.
This power output is significant—it matches the horsepower of the Audi Q5’s 2.0L turbo, firmly placing the Tiguan in a performance tier above rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The power is sent to all four wheels via a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, which now also includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the performance model.
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
The 2025 Tiguan is built on Volkswagen’s updated MQB Evo platform, which brings improvements in rigidity and refinement. The driving experience is best described as confident and polished.
On the Road
The ride quality is superb, striking an excellent balance between comfort and composure. It soaks up road imperfections with ease, feeling every bit the premium product. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering decent feedback without being overly heavy.
Performance Handling
While not as razor-sharp as a GTI, the more powerful Tiguan provides strong, linear acceleration that transforms the driving experience. The added power makes highway merging and passing maneuvers effortless. The independent suspension and standard 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system inspire confidence in corners.
Refinement
Cabin noise is well-suppressed, with minimal wind and road noise intruding at highway speeds. The engine note is subdued, though it retains a characteristic four-cylinder drone when pushed hard.
Practicality: Space and Cargo
The 2025 Tiguan prioritizes a spacious and flexible cabin for five occupants over the compromised third row of its predecessor.
Cargo Capacity
With the rear seats up, the Tiguan offers a generous 34 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the 60/40 split rear seats flat using the convenient release levers in the trunk, and that space expands to a massive 69 cubic feet—more than enough for a big family haul or luggage for a long trip.
Interior Storage
The cabin is practical, with a deep center console, a large glovebox, and plenty of cubbies for phones, bottles, and other small items. The wireless charging pad easily accommodates large smartphones.
The Verdict: Is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan the One?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is not just an incremental update; it’s a statement of intent. Volkswagen has successfully addressed the key criticisms of past models. It’s more powerful than the original, more engaging to drive than the second generation, and boasts an interior that shames some luxury brands.
Who is this SUV for?
- The Driving Enthusiast with a Family: If you loved your GTI but need more space, the powerful Tiguan SEL R-Line is your logical next step.
- The Value-Seeking Luxury Buyer: For those who desire the fit, finish, and features of an Audi Q5 without the premium price tag, the Tiguan presents an incredibly compelling argument.
- Anyone Seeking a Premium Experience: The combination of massaging seats, a stunning interior, and a serene ride makes it one of the most upscale choices in the mainstream compact SUV segment.
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan has indeed found its mojo. It has evolved into a sophisticated, powerful, and immensely desirable vehicle that truly earns its “Goldilocks” nickname. It isn’t just competing; it’s now leading the pack.
Md Imran Rahimi is the founder and main author of TechScopeHub.in. He is passionate about technology, gadgets, and automobiles, and loves to share simple yet valuable insights with readers. With a focus on honest reviews and clear comparisons, Imran’s goal is to make technology easy and useful for everyone.”