2018 VW Tiguan Review

Detailed Review

VW Tiguan 5N was the first model produced between 2007 and 2015. It was only available with two engines: a 2.0 L and a 1.4 L petrol. All Tiguans from the first generation have two rows of seating and four-cylinder engines that are positioned transversely. The PQ46 platform underpins the Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Sharan, Skoda Superb, and SEAT Alhambra.

Volkswagen revamped the Tiguan with a facelift for 2012 models. The headlamps were bolder and more angular, while the Golf and new Passat’s notable horizontal grille bars, as well as the angular line design in the two-part taillight clusters, were retained. Additionally, performance was enhanced. The interior was updated, including a new three-spoke steering wheel and gear selector.

The Tiguan’s second generation, designated AD/BW, was in production from 2016 until 2023. The rear bench seats were separated asymmetrically to maximize interior space. It is available with two different wheelbases: a five-seater with a short wheelbase and a seven-seater with a long wheelbase.

The Tiguan was redesigned in 2020, along with the introduction of the Tiguan R and Tiguan eHybrid. The Tiguan has been updated with new headlamps, a radiator grille, and wider bumper intakes similar to the Mk8 Golf, as well as a new bonnet, LED tail lights, and a rear diffuser. A new multifunction ‘digital’ steering wheel, as well as a redesigned center dashboard with a new touchscreen display running VW’s latest MIB3 software, are available.  Newly added is Volkswagen’s IQ Drive technology, which can take over steering, braking, and acceleration.

The 2018 VW Tiguan comes with a single-engine option; a 2.0 L (Petrol) mated to a 8-speed automated transmission.

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Grades

1. 2.0T S- This entry grade comes with a blind spot monitor, forward collision warning, streaming audio, 1 LCD monitor in the front, Bluetooth connectivity, and steering wheel controls.
2. 2.0T SE- This grade boasts 18-inch alloy wheels, roof racks, a lip spoiler, an Audio theft deterrent, smartphone integration and interface, 6 speaker surround system, and Bluetooth connectivity.
3. 2.0T SEL- This grade has an R-line front grille, power-heated side mirrors, a lip spoiler, a sunroof, a backup camera, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking aid.
4. 2.0T SEL PREMIUM- This grade comes with a keyless start, adjustable steering wheel, intermittent wipers, heated mirrors, mirror memory, dual-zone A/C, and a navigation system.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan has a seven-seat interior that is both modern and useful.

The front row is quite spacious, with enough head and legroom. The second row is just as comfortable, with plenty of knee and headroom.

The third row is appropriate for children or even pets, but it is extremely cramped for adults due to limited headroom and knee room.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan offers many storage spaces for items like smartphones, beverages, goggles, handbags, and so on. There are two cupholders, door panel storage, a glovebox, and a center console in the first row. There are two cupholders in the armrest compartment, front seat jacket pockets, and door pockets in the second row.

Boot Space

The load capacity of the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan is 12.0 cubic feet with all seats up, 33.2 cubic feet when the third row of seats have been folded, and 65.7 cubic feet when the second and third row of seats have been folded.

Exterior

The front of the 2018 VW Tiguan is dominated by a wide horizontal grille with the VW logo affixed to it. This vehicle has a sleek appearance thanks to LED headlights and fog lights located on the lower fascia. In comparison to earlier models, the side profile has a longer wheelbase.

The rear end features LED taillights and turn signals, as well as a lip spoiler that is distinctively placed.

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Safety Features

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan features SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, DCS and TCS, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Pre-crash Safety System, Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Pedestrian Warning, Lane Departure Alert, Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic High Beam, Run Flat tires, Active Roll Stabilization, and Electronic Damping Control.

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Fuel Consumption

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 L petrol engine consumption-  11.3 km/l on average

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Acceleration

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.1 secs

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan has a ground clearance of 7.9 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are fairly priced and available in major towns in Kenya. Body parts are expensive and mostly available in Nairobi

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan has a redesigned engine that is mated to an 8-speed automated transmission. It has a highly responsive steering wheel that can be adjusted to a comfortable position.

The engine in the Tiguan works in unison with the transmission, resulting in a smooth start and good acceleration.

Its suspension technology is up to the task because it reduces noise in the cabin caused by uneven road surfaces. It also has discs in all the wheels which helps the car come to a smooth stop when the brakes are applied.

This car comes equipped with adaptive cruise control and an anti-lock braking system, which aids in maintaining a solid hold on the road.

 Reliability

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan features a longer wheelbase than previous models, allowing it to seat up to seven passengers, a change that may be great for folks with larger families.

Its ground clearance is good enough to ride on Kenyan roads allowing it to comfortably handle modest off-road terrain.

The 2018 VW Tiguan, like any other vehicle, is not without flaws. Tiguan drivers have complained of engine stalling and acceleration hesitation.

Refer to the Volkswagen Tiguan buyer guide for a thorough dependability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Average

Volkswagen Tiguan Competitors: Mazda CX5, Subaru Forester, Honda CRV, Nissan X-trail, RAV4, and Mitsubishi Outlander.

What we like about the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan

Spacious cabin

Sleek-looking infotainment system

What we don’t

A small third row of seats

Still ranks in low fuel economy, despite a revised engine

Conclusion

The engine in the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan has been upgraded, although it does not produce much power in comparison to its competitors. It may, however, be appropriate for people with larger families. It has a good ground clearance which is above the recommended standard on Kenyan roads, so it can tackle moderate off-road terrain without any difficulty.