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Volkswagen Tiguan FAQs


PUBLISHED FRIDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2021

Find out more about this compact crossover.

Volkswagen Tiguan FAQ: Hero | CarMax

When you need space for up to seven passengers, full-size SUVs and minivans aren't your only options. Enter the three-row compact crossover, a vehicle class that delivers on extra seating space while retaining the easy handling and maneuverability of a smaller SUV. The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is one of just a few vehicles in this class of three-row crossovers—and it just may be the right fit for your needs.

With its standard turbocharged engine and available all-wheel drive on some used models, this three-row crossover is built with families in mind. With features like Bluetooth® connectivity, smartphone integration, and a six-speaker sound system, even the base S trim on the Tiguan is well-equipped. Meanwhile, every 2021 Tiguan comes with a suite of driver assistance features that includes forward-collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring.

Could a used Volkswagen Tiguan be the right choice for your family? Explore some common FAQs about this vehicle below to inform your search.

Volkswagen Tiguan FAQs

Q: What cars are similar to a Volkswagen Tiguan?

A: The Volkswagen Tiguan is classified as a compact crossover, but it is unique in the fact that it also offers the option for three rows of seating. Some examples of similar three-row crossovers include:

Q: How much does a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan cost?

A: While the price of a 2020 Tiguan can vary based on factors such as trim, mileage, and other factors, the average cost of a 2020 used Volkswagen Tiguan at CarMax is $25,590.1

Q: Which is better: Volkswagen Tiguan or Kia Sportage?

A: Ultimately, this will depend on what you're looking for in your next SUV purchase. Both the VW Tiguan and Kia Sportage have a lot to offer when it comes to standard equipment, styling, and engine power. Both are also classified as compact crossover SUVs. However, the Tiguan offers an optional three rows of seating for up to seven people, while the Sportage maxes out at seating for five across its two rows.

What about under the hood? The 2021 Tiguan comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine at 184 hp, compared to a 2.4L four-cylinder engine at 181 hp on the 2021 Sportage. If you're looking for more power, the Sportage is available with a turbocharged 240-hp 2.0L engine on its SX Turbo trim. Both crossover SUVs are available in front- and all-wheel-drive versions.

In terms of standard equipment, the 2021 Tiguan and 2021 Sportage are fairly similar. Both offer smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto, as well as a six-speaker sound system and 17-inch wheels. However, the Sportage offers a slightly larger touchscreen display (eight inches versus the Tiguan's 6.5-inch display).

When comparing fuel economy, the 2021 Tiguan base trim with its turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined (23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway).2 This is only slightly lower than the 2021 Sportage's EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway) on its based model with 2.4L four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive.2

As you can see, the Tiguan and Sportage are well-matched; the vehicle that is right for you may simply boil down to whether you need seating for five or seven passengers.

Q: Is Volkswagen discontinuing the Tiguan?

A: As of September 2021, Volkswagen has not officially announced anything related to the Tiguan begin discontinued. The Tiguan did, however, see a major refresh for the 2022 model year—with revised styling and new powertrain options expected.

Likewise, one version of the Volkswagen Tiguan was discontinued back in 2018 when the vehicle saw its last major redesign but continued selling its previous version. The previous version was rebranded as the "Tiguan Limited." However, due to low sales, production of the Tiguan Limited was discontinued following the 2018 model year—while production of the current generation of Tiguan persisted.

Q: Is the Volkswagen Tiguan expensive to repair?

A: Based on RepairPal reliability ratings for the 2010-2019 versions of the Volkswagen Tiguan, it has an estimated annual repair and maintenance cost of $730. This is slightly higher than the average of $537 in annual repairs/maintenance for other compact SUVs.3

Likewise, the Tiguan has an overall RepairPal reliability rating of three out of five stars, which is considered "average." Owners of the Tiguan tend to bring their vehicles in for unscheduled repairs an average of 0.9 times per year, which is higher than the average of 0.3 times for other vehicles in its class.3

Shop for a Used Tiguan Today

With plenty of trims and configurations to choose from, a used Volkswagen Tiguan can be an excellent choice for growing families. Ready to continue your search for a used VW Tiguan? You can explore our current inventory of this and other models at CarMax.

1Based on prices on CarMax.com from December 1, 2019, through May 1, 2021. Actual prices may vary based on your selected model year, features, and trim packages. Prices do not include tax, title, tags, and any applicable fees.
2Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
3RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2010-2019 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.


* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.