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Starting in the 2009 American model year, the Volkswagen Tiguan quickly became a favorite for Volkswagen and SUV fans alike. The Tiguan, whose name is a portmanteau of tiger and iguana, currently fits comfortably in the compact SUV market as a best seller. If you are a used car buyer, however, which used Tiguan is the best value in terms of reliability and affordability over time? Read on to find out which used Volkswagen Tiguan is the best.

Which used Tiguan is the best? 

According to Consumer Reports, the best used Volkswagen Tiguan model year is the 2017 Tiguan. It was impressive as a new SUV, offering some of the most interior space in the small SUV market. This model year impressed many critics with its integration of USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smoother ride compared to the 2016 model. The Tiguan also kept it basic in the drivetrain department with only one engine available, a 2.0L turbocharged engine with optional all-wheel drive.

In terms of reliability, Consumer Reports gives the 2017 Tiguan near-perfect ratings in overall reliability including extremely high ratings in engine, cooling, body, paint, transmission, suspension, and air conditioning system reliability. It also ranks in the top 10 in Consumer Reports’ SUV reliability ratings for the 2017 model year.

How much does a used Tiguan cost?

The front view of a white Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line
Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line | Alexander Koerner/Getty Images

The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan is a very reasonable option for anyone looking for an affordable compact SUV. According to Consumer Reports, a 2017 Tiguan has a current market value of $15,825 to $19,800, making this one of the more affordable SUVs you can buy today. Compare this to a brand new 2022 Tiguan with a market value of $26,490 to $37,320, and you are getting a better, more reliable SUV than a late model Tiguan, for less price.

Which used Tiguan should you avoid?

If you are searching for a used Tiguan, newer is not better. In 2019, the Tiguan received very low reliability scores with major issues found in body integrity, with some customers reporting leaking weather seals. Brakes have also been an issue for consumers as well, with customers reporting brake pads being spent in as little as 30 days. The driveline also received low ratings with some customers reporting drive belt failure, which damages the SUV’s oil system.

The 2019, 2020, and 2021 model years of the Tiguan all received very low overall reliability scores, making the 2017 Tiguan a solid choice if you are looking for a quality used compact SUV with plenty of space inside.

Per Consumer Reports, the best used Volkswagen Tiguan model year is 2017; it is also ahead of newer Tiguans both in reviews of when the SUV was new, and today in terms of reliability over the years.

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