The compact SUV class is hotter than ever and Volkswagen wants to remain competitive as more options are updated and having a third row of seats simply isn’t enough to draw consumers in. For the 2022 model year, Volkswagen is giving the Tiguan a refresh. The main changes occur on the outside, but the interior gets a few updates and the infotainment system has been upgraded. But will the changes be enough to take on competitors? Here's our take.
The largest change occurs on the outside where the Tiguan wears a new design. Both ends of the SUV get new bumpers, while standard LED headlights and a new grille have also been added. New wheels that measure in from 17 to 20 inches join the lineup. Two new paint colors – Oryx White and Kings Red – are now available. Lastly, the Tiguan badge now sits in the center of the liftgate, following a similar design to the larger Atlas. The subtle changes help the Tiguan fit in with the automaker’s design language that we’ve seen with the Taos, Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and ID.4.
Volkswagen has jazzed up the Tiguan’s cabin, but changes are even more modest than the ones made to the exterior of the vehicle. The design of the steering wheel is new, while an 8-inch digital gauge cluster is now standard. The Tiguan’s infotainment system has been updated to offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Going with one of the upper trim levels brings touch-sensitive climate control buttons with R-Line models coming with capacitive buttons on the steering wheel as standard. The base S trim gets standard heated front seats, which are a nice touch. A larger 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard on the SEL R-Line, which also comes with ventilated front seats.
Things for the 2022 Tiguan haven’t changed when it comes to the sole powertrain. The SUV will still come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 184 horsepower. All-wheel drive will continue to be available throughout the lineup and the engine is paired with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission.
While the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan now looks better and has more technology, we don’t think the changes do enough to get the SUV out from sitting in the middle of the class. The main issue with the Tiguan is its lackluster performance. We’re surprised that Volkswagen didn’t update the engine in any way to increase performance. The changes to the 2022 Tiguan are nice, but not enough to compete with the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Rogue. Don’t forget about the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander, either, which offers an available third row of seats.
Volkswagen hasn’t announced pricing for the 2022 Tiguan yet, but we’re sure it will cost more than the current SUV that’s priced at $26,440 with destination. The refreshed Tiguan will arrive at dealers in the third quarter of this year.
2022 VW Tiguan Gets Minor Fuel Economy Boost
VW Atlas vs. Tiguan
Volkswagen Teases New Compact SUV
Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Volkswagen Tiguan Limited
Volkswagen Taos vs. Volkswagen Tiguan
