2021 VW Tiguan: Is This Compact SUV the Right Choice for You?

The Volkswagen Tiguan has carved out a comfortable niche in the crowded compact SUV market. Competing against stalwarts like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5, the 2021 Vw Tiguan offers a unique blend of European driving dynamics and family-friendly practicality. But does it stand out enough to warrant your attention? This in-depth review dives into the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s the right SUV for your needs.

Image showing the front profile of a 2021 VW Tiguan, emphasizing its understated yet handsome design.

Driving Performance: Agile Handling and Comfortable Ride

One of the most compelling aspects of the 2021 VW Tiguan is its driving experience. Especially in the 4Motion all-wheel-drive configuration, the Tiguan exhibits surprising agility and confident handling. The steering, while light to the touch, is remarkably precise, providing a sense of connection to the road that is often missing in this vehicle segment. When the roads get twisty, the Tiguan remains composed and neutral, encouraging spirited driving. You might be surprised by how confidently you can navigate corners, with minimal understeer and good power delivery. While not a sports car, the 2021 VW Tiguan offers a level of driving engagement that sets it apart from some of its more mundane competitors.

Image highlighting the R-Line badging on a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, showcasing the sporty trim level.

Beyond handling, the ride quality of the 2021 Tiguan is commendable. It effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, maintaining composure even over larger dips and uneven surfaces. Unlike some rivals that can feel bouncy or unsettled, the Tiguan provides a controlled and comfortable ride, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer road trips. This balance of handling and ride comfort is a key strength of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.

Interior Space and Practicality: Room for the Whole Family

Despite being classified as a compact SUV, the 2021 VW Tiguan feels remarkably spacious inside. Both front and rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and headroom, accommodating adults of various sizes comfortably. The cargo area is also ample, providing plenty of space for luggage, groceries, and gear. A standout feature in the 2021 Tiguan is the optional third-row seating. While best suited for children or occasional use, this third row is a rarity in the compact SUV class and adds a layer of versatility for families who occasionally need to transport extra passengers. This makes the 2021 VW Tiguan a truly practical choice for families seeking maximum space in a manageable footprint.

Image showcasing the spacious cargo area of the 2021 VW Tiguan, emphasizing its practicality.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy: Adequate but Not Thrilling

While the 2021 VW Tiguan excels in handling and space, its engine performance is less inspiring. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is smooth and refined in everyday driving, providing sufficient power for city and highway cruising. However, acceleration is leisurely, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.8 seconds. Compared to competitors like the Mazda CX-5 Turbo, which is significantly quicker, the Tiguan feels underpowered when you demand more spirited performance. Passing on the highway requires planning, and the engine can feel strained under hard acceleration.

Image highlighting the driver’s seat and dashboard of the 2021 VW Tiguan, showing the interior layout.

Fuel economy is also just average for the class. The 2021 VW Tiguan achieves around 25 mpg combined and 33 mpg on the highway. While respectable, some rivals offer similar or even better fuel efficiency with more potent engines. The Tiguan’s slightly larger size might contribute to its average fuel economy, but it’s not a standout in this area.

Interior Design and Quality: Functional but Dated in Higher Trims

The interior of the 2021 VW Tiguan is functional and user-friendly, but the design can feel somewhat dated, especially in the higher trim levels like the SEL Premium R-Line. While some may appreciate the simple and straightforward layout, others might find it lacking in visual flair compared to more modern and stylish competitors. Material quality is acceptable in lower trims, but in the higher-priced models, the interior materials don’t quite live up to the asking price. Features are generally well-integrated and easy to use, and the infotainment system is functional, but it lacks the cutting-edge feel of some newer systems. The Fender audio system, often touted as a premium feature, delivers only average sound quality.

Image showcasing the two-tone interior design of the 2021 VW Tiguan SEL Premium, highlighting the Storm Gray seats.

Trim Levels and Value: Lower Trims Offer the Best Bang for Your Buck

The 2021 VW Tiguan is available in various trim levels, ranging from the base S to the top-of-the-line SEL Premium R-Line. While the higher trims offer more features and visual appeal, they also come with a significantly higher price tag. The tested SEL Premium R-Line, with an as-tested price of over $40,000, feels expensive for what it offers, particularly in terms of interior quality and engine performance. For the best value, consider the lower to mid-range trims like the SE or SE R-Line. These trims offer a good balance of features, style, and affordability, capturing the essence of the Tiguan’s appeal without breaking the bank. The SE R-Line, in particular, provides the sporty R-Line appearance package at a much more reasonable price point.

Pros and Cons of the 2021 VW Tiguan:

Pros:

Engaging driving dynamics and agile handling
Comfortable and composed ride quality
Spacious interior for passengers and cargo
Optional and rare third-row seating in the compact SUV class
Understated yet handsome exterior styling

Cons:

Underwhelming engine performance and slow acceleration
Average fuel economy
Dated interior design, especially in higher trims
Interior material quality not commensurate with the price in top trims
Higher trim levels can be expensive

Conclusion: A Solid Choice with Smart Trim Selection

The 2021 VW Tiguan is a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of European driving refinement, spaciousness, and available third-row seating. It’s a practical and comfortable SUV that is enjoyable to drive. However, its engine performance is lackluster, and the interior, while functional, doesn’t always impress, especially in the pricier trims. To maximize value, consider sticking to the lower or mid-range trims like the SE or SE R-Line. By choosing wisely, you can enjoy the 2021 VW Tiguan’s strengths without overpaying for features that don’t significantly enhance the overall experience. If you prioritize driving dynamics, interior space, and appreciate a touch of German engineering, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan deserves a spot on your shopping list.

Image of the 2021 VW Tiguan exterior, showcasing its overall design and proportions.

2021 VW Tiguan R Line exterior detail

2021 VW Tiguan SEL Premium R Line exterior | The Road Beat