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Which used Volkswagen Tiguan should you buy?

The Volkswagen Tiguan was first launched in 2007, then replaced in 2016 by a larger car that really solidified its appeal. This desirability has continued on the used market.

It’s a pretty strong SUV all-rounder, with few obvious flaws, and engine options range from 115PS (a little slow) to 240PS (faster than you’d probably need) in diesel form, and from 127PS to 233PS with petrol power.

There are plenty of choices in-between, along with a broad variety of trims, too, as well as the seven-seat Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace. So you can be sure you’ll find a model to suit you. 

There’s also a rapid 304PS high-performance Volkswagen Tiguan R, for those who want their SUV to be sporty.

Read our full Volkswagen Tiguan review

  

What used Volkswagen Tiguan trim levels are available?

The Volkswagen Tiguan Match is among the most common models on the used market, and is also the one we’d recommend, as it comes well equipped and is reasonably priced. You won't see many basic Volkswagen Tiguan S models around.

Among the options, keep your eyes out for cars fitted with Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), a system that at the flick of a switch offers a choice between more comfortable or sportier suspension. This lets you sharpen the car up when driving down a twisty road, or maximise comfort when on the motorway.

Volkswagen Tiguan S

It may be the entry-level version, but the Volkswagen Tiguan S bristles with essential features (see below).

The engine line-up is reasonably broad, with highlights being the 1.4 TSI 150 petrol and four-wheel-drive (badged 4Motion) 2.0 TDI 150 diesel. The latter’s 4WD is good for some gentle off-roading, but its primary function is to improve grip on slippery roads.

  • Roof rails
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Air-conditioning
  • Eight-inch touchscreen media system
  • Digital radio
  • Automatic headlights
  • Lane-keeping assistance

Volkswagen Tiguan SE

Next on the ladder is the Volkswagen Tiguan SE. As you can see below, it added some desirable upgrades. While a Volkswagen Tiguan SE model is a great-value buy, it was replaced in 2019 by the Volkswagen Tiguan Match, which is more modern and even more appealing.

  • Larger alloys
  • Front foglights
  • Chrome detailing
  • Automatic climate control
  • Parking sensors all-round
  • Folding seat-back tables
  • Ski hatch between the rear seats

Volkswagen Tiguan SE Nav

As the name suggests, the Volkswagen Tiguan SE Nav is the Volkswagen Tiguan SE with sat-nav included. The sat-nav system is clear and displays the prevailing speed limit, although since it’s not camera-based it can’t always be relied upon. This model proved popular with buyers, and tends to be more commonly available than the Volkswagen Tiguan SE.

Volkswagen Tiguan Match

The Volkswagen Tiguan Match was launched in 2019 as a replacement for the Volkswagen Tiguan SE and Volkswagen Tiguan SE Nav trims, and is arguably better value for money. 

Most used ones have either the 2.0 TDI 150 diesel or 1.5 TSI Evo 150 petrol engine, both of which are economical and powerful enough for the majority of drivers.

  • 19-inch wheels
  • Sat-nav
  • Rear-view camera
  • Park Assist
  • Keyless entry
  • Three-zone automatic climate control
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • MirrorLink

Volkswagen Tiguan SEL

As a new car, the Volkswagen Tiguan SEL seemed a rather expensive and illogical purchase, but strong sales mean there are lots to choose from on the used market. Highlights include:

  • LED headlights with Dynamic Light Assist
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • 12.3-inch Active Info Display

Volkswagen Tiguan R Line

The Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line trim is based on the Volkswagen Tiguan SEL, but has a more overtly sporty flavour. You’ve a better chance of finding one of the more powerful engines, including the speedy 2.0 BiTDI 240 4Motion, in this trim.

  • 20-inch alloy wheels
  • Bodykit with wheelarch extensions
  • 12.3-inch Active Info Display

Volkswagen Tiguan R Line Tech

The Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Tech replaced the Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line in 2019, and comes with some desirable technology, including:

  • Aerial view, 360-degree camera
  • Powered tailgate

Is a used Volkswagen Tiguan a good buy?

The popularity of the Volkswagen Tiguan is perhaps unsurprising. It combines all the most appealing aspects of the accomplished Volkswagen Golf hatchback – good build quality, understated but attractive design, all the room you need for family life – with the best parts of an SUV.

As such, it’s a strong competitor for cars like the Ford Kuga, while high-end versions are also an alternative to upmarket models such as the Land Rover Discovery Sport.