2025 Volkswagen Tiguan 4Motion First Drive: Sharper, Smarter, and Ready for Anything
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan 4Motion represents the evolution of the German brand’s bestselling SUV, offering a fresh blend of performance, technology, and refinement. Volkswagen’s Tiguan is entering the 2019 model year with strategic enhancements that are intended to compete with class leaders such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Tucson. This is in response to the fact that crossover SUVs continue to dominate the automotive industry today.
In this detailed review, we evaluate the 2025 Tiguan 4Motion based on performance, interior design, tech features, fuel economy, and overall value. Let’s see whether this compact SUV is truly moving forward — or just standing still.
Slide: 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan
Exterior Redesign: Sharper, Bolder Presence
Volkswagen has made significant design changes to the 2025 Tiguan. A more sculpted front appearance, LED headlights that are more compact, and a cleaner back profile are all features that it now possesses. The overall silhouette maintains the previous generation’s proportions but looks more modern and dynamic.
The bold grille design, functional roof rails, and available 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels contribute to a premium feel, while the increased body length provides better aerodynamics and interior space. Buyers can also choose between a variety of metallic and pearl-effect paint options, further personalizing their Tiguan.
Engine & Performance: 4Motion’s All-Wheel Confidence
Under the hood, the 2025 Tiguan 4Motion is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing around 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. What sets the 4Motion variant apart is its intelligent all-wheel-drive system, designed to tackle slippery roads and moderate off-road paths confidently.
There is a smooth acceleration, although not exciting acceleration, with a time of around 8.2 seconds from 0 to 60 miles per hour. The ride feels composed thanks to revised suspension tuning and improved steering response. In everyday driving, the Tiguan delivers a quiet and comfortable experience, making it ideal for families and commuters alike.
Interior Features: Practicality Meets Modern Comfort
Step inside, and the Tiguan impresses with its upgraded interior. The dashboard layout now features physical buttons for key functions — a welcome change from the overly touch-sensitive setup seen in some recent VW models.
The new digital cockpit offers a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, complemented by an optional 15-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium trims offer leatherette seating, ambient lighting, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
With improved legroom and headroom, especially in the second row, the Tiguan offers excellent comfort for both short and long drives. The rear cargo area has also grown, now offering up to 73.4 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded.
Tech and Connectivity: Simple and Effective
One of the standout improvements is VW’s user-friendly infotainment system. Unlike previous generations, which were often criticized for laggy software and unintuitive controls, the 2025 model feels responsive and easier to navigate.
The IQ.Drive suite is standard across most trims, offering adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection. Optional features include a 360-degree camera system and hands-free park assist.
Wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and an available Harman Kardon premium sound system round out the connectivity and entertainment options.
Fuel Economy & Real-World Efficiency
According to preliminary data, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan 4Motion delivers an EPA-estimated 24 MPG city / 30 MPG highway, putting it on par with competitors. The real-world fuel economy, however, may vary depending on driving conditions and load.
Fuel Economy Comparison Chart
| SUV Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| 2025 VW Tiguan 4Motion | 24 | 30 | 26–27 |
| 2025 Honda CR-V AWD | 27 | 32 | 29 |
| 2025 Toyota RAV4 AWD | 25 | 33 | 28–29 |
| 2025 Hyundai Tucson AWD | 26 | 33 | 28–30 |
While the Tiguan isn’t the most fuel-efficient in the segment, its real advantage lies in balanced driving dynamics and a refined driving experience.
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Tiguan is offered in multiple trims:
- S
- SE
- SE R-Line Black
- SEL R-Line
Pricing starts at approximately $30,000 for the base S 4Motion model and climbs to around $39,000 for the fully loaded SEL R-Line variant. Optional packages and accessories can push the price higher, especially with added tech or luxury features.
Driving Impressions: Smooth Ride with Confident Handling
On the road, the Tiguan 4Motion feels stable and sure-footed. Thanks to its AWD system, cornering feels secure, and traction is readily available in wet or slippery conditions. The ride quality is one of the best in its class — smooth over bumps, with minimal body roll and noise insulation.
The improved transmission shifts seamlessly, and the turbocharged engine provides enough torque for highway overtakes and city traffic maneuvers.
Final Verdict: Evolution Over Revolution
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan 4Motion doesn’t rewrite the compact SUV playbook — but it doesn’t need to. Instead, it builds on its predecessor’s strengths: comfort, utility, and understated style. VW has listened to its customers, bringing back real buttons and improving interior tech.
For drivers looking for a well-rounded compact SUV with all-wheel-drive capability and European refinement, the Tiguan 4Motion remains a solid contender in a competitive field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the 2025 Tiguan 4Motion a good off-roader?
While not a true off-roader, the Tiguan 4Motion handles light trails, snow, and gravel confidently thanks to its AWD system and ground clearance.
Q2: Does the Tiguan 4Motion come with Apple CarPlay?
Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on most trims.
Q3: How many passengers can it seat?
The 2025 Tiguan seats five passengers comfortably.
Q4: What are the warranty details?
VW provides a limited warranty that is valid for four years and 50,000 miles, in addition to two years of gratis scheduled maintenance.
Q5: Is there a hybrid version of the Tiguan?
As of 2025, there is no hybrid Tiguan available in the U.S., though it may be available in other markets.
