2022 VW Tiguan Full Review: Hybrid, Tiguan R, Interior

The compact crossover class is the most popular segment in the US. Leading carmakers are achieving 400k+ sales per annum. Volkswagen is a recognizable brand, but it suffers because of the diesel engines emission reports scandal from 2015. Meanwhile, domestic and Japanese carmakers gained popularity and increased the gap. The 2022 VW Tiguan is going to try to get the German company closer to its rivals.

The crossover is all-new. Styling is more aggressive, while the interior is also refreshed. The hybrid unit is in plans, but chiefs are not unveiling details yet. For now, the only powerplant that is guaranteed for the 2022 VW Tiguan is a turbo-four. The trim level lineup is pretty much the same, with S, SE, SEL, and R-Line. The Tiguan R could borrow a powerful configuration from Volkswagen’s best-selling car, Golf. In this case, the crossover might get up to 300 hp.

Strong sides of the new 2022 Tiguan are the fresh styling, new interior and features, updated colors, and advanced technologies. On the other hand, the Tiguan still trails Japanese and US models. The resale value might be the key. That is not something VW can fix overnight. But, an extended warranty could help, as well as the R package.

What’s New for the 2022 VW Tiguan?

The crossover is updated for the new season. Still, the company didn’t bring the third generation of the vehicle. The inspiration for the redesign is found on the Atlas. This SUV might serve as the base for the pickup truck for the US market. We can see new headlights with LED lamps, highlighting changes on the front fascia. That is also where you can find updated bumper and air vents. The new design of wheels is making the 2022 VW Tiguan more aggressive.

There are plenty of changes inside the cabin as well. Steering wheels have touch-sensitive controls. For the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan, heated front seats are standard. All gauges are digitalized. Going up the trim levels, buyers will find more advanced technology features. For example, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are there on the SE. Travel Assist package is the entry-level autonomous drive system.

Three-Row Model

The Tiguan Allspace is going to be the model with three rows of seats. Still, the vehicle is not confirmed for the US yet. It is not strange to see crossovers with such a layout in other markets. Nissan Qashqai, Honda CR-V and Ford Kuga are among vehicles in this class offering additional two seats. In the US, you need to purchase a mid-size SUV for seven seats.

2022 VW Tiguan Specs, Tiguan R and Hybrid to Arrive in 2023?

Under the hood of the 2022 VW Tiguan we will find a 2.0-liter turbo engine. Turbochargers will enhance outputs and the crossover is delivering 184 hp and 221 lb-ft. That is a bit more torque than most rivals can produce. An eight-speed automatic transmission is sending power to front wheels unless you want to upgrade the ride with an all-wheel drive. FWD system returns 22/29 mpg and AWD is good for 20/27.

We expect at least 30 mpg from a compact crossover. Leaders in this class can bring you 40+. However, a hybrid unit is required. That is why Volkswagen needs something special for the 2022 Tiguan. The ID concept is under development and the EV is a more likely option at this moment. Instead, to draw more attention in the US market, the carmaker is launching Tiguan R. A 300-hp rated crossover is not going to be the most potent model in the segment. But, the Golf hatchback is luring a lot of attention with this package.

Trim Levels

The company confirmed three trim levels for the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. The S is the base version. Highlights of the package are 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, heated front seats, and fully-digital gauges. The SE model improves the offer with larger wheels and a power tailgate. The entry-level self-driving features are available, including adaptive cruise control. A panoramic sunroof would be a great addition. You can also add the R-Line bundle with 19-inch wheels, special bumpers and steering wheel. This version will be easy to recognize thanks to the blacked-out elements, such as roof rails, exterior details, and leatherette interior. The R-Line features are standard on the 2022 VW Tiguan SEL. Interior lighting and leather upholstery enhance comfort and elegance. The driver is getting more help from smart features. A set of 20-inch wheels is also there.

2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Release Date

The US model is going to be available this fall. Earlier, buyers in some other markets will already have a chance to test the new crossover. Meanwhile, we expect more from the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. Hybrid and R model are the hottest topics. The price of the upcoming vehicle powered by a 4-pot unit is going to be just under $26,000. With all the options available at the moment, the configuration could reach $40,000.

First look at CNET