Hot hatch alert! Don’t pump the brakes on the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. While it’s technically a crossover SUV, it has compact hatchback vibes that deserve your attention. It was redesigned for 2025 and could win the glow up of the year. 

3 reasons why the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is the perfect hatchback 

1. The 2025 VW Tiguan has a revised style 

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan kicks off the third generation with a complete refresh. It seems like a sleek SUV was carved out of a dated, boxy shape. Seriously, the sleeker body lines and lower profile give it a more attractive style. 

Some folks may feel upset as it no longer has an available third row and a little less cargo space. But they can consider upgrading to the VW Atlas for extra room. Also, the Tiguan rides on the same platform as the GTI hot hatch. It feels more athletic than before. 

The revamped interior included luxurious, upscale materials. Also, racing-themed SEL R-Line adds real wood trim, and quality leather upholstery to rally around town with premium comfort. 

Features like the panoramic sunroof and customizable ambient interior lighting make it feel modern and exciting. Plus, the LED light bar in the grille is pretty sharp. 

2. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is fun 

With the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, you get 201 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. The 2025 Tiguan can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. 

Yes, that’s not super fast, but it is faster than the Toyota RAV4. Plus, the 2024 Tiguan reaches 60 mph in about 8.9 seconds, and that’s considered average for the class. 

What helps the Tiguan shine is responsive handling and smooth transmission shifts. It’s confident for cornering with almost no body roll around hairpin turns on curvy mountain roads. The brakes could be a little faster to respond, though. 

3. The Tiguan R-Line is comfortable 

I tested the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line model for a week. While I was hoping for more racing-style upgrades, it really improves on the luxury appointments instead, with massaging front seats, a surround-view camera, and ventilated seats. 

The front seats are spacious with plenty of adjustment controls. The side bolstering is effective at holding you still while zooming around. Two adults can fit in the rear without any fuss. 

Plus, the interior is peaceful at highway speeds, and the suspension quickly settles impacts for a smooth ride. I even took the Tiguan in the woods and was impressed by its control and smoothness on slippery surfaces. 

Potential Volkswagen Tiguan drawbacks:

1. The cargo space has been reduced from 33 cubic feet behind the second row and 73.4 cubic feet overall to 26.5 cubic feet behind the second row and a total of 58.9 cubic feet. But there are plenty of storage trays, cubbies, and cup holders to take advantage of. 
2. While the tech has improved, some touchscreen controls are confusing. Also, the camera could have a better resolution. However, connecting Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is so fast and simple. 
3. The adaptive cruise control system really likes to keep its distance from other cars on the road. 
4. A hybrid powertrain has been promised, but we’re still waiting for it to arrive. The VW Tiguan currently gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and up to 30 mpg on the highway with AWD. 
5. This VW SUV currently doesn’t have paddle shifters, which would make the R-Line a lot more fun. 

Overall, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is much better than it used to be. It has a sleeker look and confident style to give it more personality. It has a better chance to stand out in an increasingly crowded compact SUV segment, especially against aging rivals like the Mazda CX-5. 

Plus, it has noticeable performance upgrades, especially when it comes to handling and a little extra power. It’s more fun and comfortable than it used to be. 

Sure, it could be a little more athletic, and some of the tech is still lagging behind rivals. But I love the new direction it’s going in.