The 2019  Volkswagen Tiguan wasn’t exactly critics’ favorite choice. This VW wasn’t the most popular with buyers either. But if you’re a certain type of driver, the 2019 Tiguan could be the ideal SUV for you.

Driving the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 

VW sold over 100,00 Tiguans in 2019, according to GoodCarBadCar. That makes this compact SUV one of the better selling models of the year. But to put things more into perspective, 2019 Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V sales more than tripled the Tiguan’s.

The Tiguan has a few things going for it even though it hasn’t reached the same level of popularity as some of its classmates. For starters, the Tiguan’s contemporary European style makes it more of a standout in a crowded parking lot. This VW also earns praise for its smooth ride quality and secure handling.

All Tiguans feature the same turbocharged 184-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder linked to an eight-speed automatic. Additionally, you have the choice between front- or all-wheel drive. Standard models have an EPA rating of up to 25 mpg overall. The Tiguan is especially enjoyable for city-driving. Though, critics noted that its larger size makes for a lackluster performance on the highway. 

“While the Tiguan’s turbocharged engine generates impressive horsepower and torque, a base Tiguan is a whopping 450 pounds heavier than a base Honda CR-V. City scooting and highway cruising are barely impacted, but the added mass is evident in highway merging and passing situations.” 

Kelley Blue Book 

Cabin comforts 

The Tiguan’s larger size has garnered mixed reviews regarding its performance. The good news here is that it translates to ample interior space. This VW is one of the few compact SUVs that’s available with a third-row seat. Models with the third-row are available with FWD or AWD, as U.S. News notes. Five-seater Tiguans are only available with AWD. 

“The main benefit of the new Tiguan’s stretched body is improved cargo space. … The new one boasts 65.7 cubic feet when equipped with the third-row seat, or 73.5 in two-row form-numbers that compare favorably with the best in the compact-SUV class.”

Consumer Guide 

The Tiguan comes with cloth upholstery, but you can shop for models with faux leather or genuine leather if you’d like. When it comes to in-car tech, the Tiguan is an appealing choice too. It comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirror Link. A backup camera is standard also. You may want to explore the higher trims for more advanced safety equipment. Available active safety features include forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. 

Should I buy a 2019 VW Tiguan?

You could do worse than the 2019 Tiguan for a good used SUV. It’s a pleasant city-driver with a distinct sense of style and versatile interior space. So, if these elements are appealing to you, the Tiguan is a worthy choice. The average price for a 2019 Tiguan ranges from $18,125 to $29,050, depending on its amenities.