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Settling for the standard Volkswagen Tiguan is fine because it’s loaded with premium value. But you don’t have to limit yourself if you want a sportier performance, more confident style, and enhanced comfort with extra convenience features. See why the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line is irresistible. 

Does the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SEL R-Line have a better performance? 

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line on a gravel road
2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

Yes, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line provides a better performance than the regular Tiguan models. However, it doesn’t have extra per. The sole engine option is the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 184 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. 

But it has driving modes for Eco, Normal, and Sport that have been tuned to provide optimal settings in various conditions. The R-Line feels much faster and smoother than the standard Tiguan models we’ve tested. 

The auto start-and-stop system is seamless in the background, and the Tiguan has an instant acceleration to fly off the line. It offers smooth transmission shifts with a smooth performance and confident grip for cornering. 

Plus, this model has standard all-wheel drive with hill descent control, making it more capable. The hill descent control system automatically controls your torque and braking based on the terrain. It’s resistant to sliding on gravel roads and sandy trails, but it should stick to beginner trails. 

The Tiguan R-Line rides on 20-inch alloy wheels that don’t seem to impact the ride quality much, but it enhances the exterior look. The full-length LED bar in the grille, chrome accents, side skirts, and R-Line badging add confidence. 

Does the Tiguan R-Line have a better interior? 

Yes, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line features a premium interior with upscale upgrades. It eliminates the second row, which isn’t good if you need extra seats. However, it maximizes cargo space. 

There are plenty of storage strays and cubbies for personal items, plus you can access up to 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row with up to 73.4 cubes total. There are additional storage bins on the side of the cargo hold with built-in storage under the floor. 

The R-Line comes with leather sports seats that are heated and ventilated. The seats have the perfect amount of side bolstering to keep you in space around hairpin curves and over bumps. 

They’re supportive and work ergonomically to keep you energized during long drives, but the bottom cushion is a bit stiff. The stiffness is only noticeable after spending an hour or two behind the wheel. (We took two 126-mile road trips with this beast). 

Plus, the black leather seats are accented with white accent stitching. You also get vibrant interior lighting, a panoramic moonroof, a hands-free liftgate, power-folding mirrors, a heated steering wheel, and a power-adjustable passenger seat. 

Does the VW Tiguan SEL R-Line have better tech? 

The 2023 Volkswagen Tigaun SEL R-Line interior and dash
2023 Volkswagen Tigaun SEL R-Line interior | Volkswagen

Yes, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line is loaded with extra tech, including a 360-degree camera display, integrated navigation, and an automated parking system. It can automatically steer into a parking spot for you. 

Of course, it has standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto with a wireless charging pad. But it also has a premium Fender audio system that rocks. It covers wind and road noise perfectly. 

The 8.0-inch touchscreen could be more intuitive. It has a slight learning curve with touchscreen controls. Some folks may prefer more physical buttons and dials. But you can connect two phones at once, and it’s so easy to change devices!

The 10.25-inch digital guage cluster is the true star. It displays your speed, and has traffic sign recognition. It tracks your driving hours, mileage, fuel economy, cruise control settings, and media. 

It’s easy to customize if you want to see your traffic directions instead of the map. Also, the map is pretty intelligent and shows the names of parks, camping spots, restaurants, etc. 

While the Volkswagen Tiguan is already pretty loaded, the R-Line makes all the difference. It spices things up with a more engaging performance, better look, more upscale interior, and tons of convenience.