This simple guide analyzes each Volkswagen Tiguan from 2009 to the most recent model, and categorizes the best & worse years.
This guide will break down the Volkswagen Tiguan models by year, highlighting the best years for buying the Tiguan and which model years you should avoid.
Our comprehensive approach relies on detailed data and reviews from authoritative resources such as NHTSA Consumer Reports and Kelley Blue Book to ensure accurate and valuable information.
The article will highlight the engine performance of each Volkswagen Tiguan year model, as well as its safety features, reliability over time, problems that are common, recalls and resale value.
Let’s jump right in!
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Volkswagen Tiguan Generations
Volkswagen Tiguan was introduced in 2009. It quickly established itself as a major player on the market for compact SUVs. The first Tiguan model set the standard for the segment with its practical design and high performance.
The vehicle combined comfort and sophistication, typical for Volkswagens, with the space and versatility of SUVs. This made it popular amongst consumers who were looking for vehicles that could be used both in the city and on outdoor adventures.
This table shows the Volkswagen Tiguan generational changes from 2009 until today:
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | The Year |
|---|---|
| First generation (5N) | 2009-2017 |
| Second generation (AD/BW). | 2018-2024 |
The significant changes that occur between generations, especially in terms of design, performance and technology, may have a major impact on a purchaser’s choice.
Volkswagen Tiguan’s Best, Worst, and Neutral Years
We consider several factors in our classification of the top and bottom Volkswagen Tiguan models years.
- Owner-reported reliability surveys
- Maintenance costs
- Safety Ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability score
- Consumer Reports scores of owner satisfaction
- NHTSA investigations, recalls and complaints
- Edmunds Owner Ratings
- JD Power Owner Ratings
- Kelley Blue Book owner ratings
- Owner ratings for VehicleHistory
- Owner ratings on Cars.com
The graph below combines the scores from all of these sources. Take a look.
We have created a table that categorizes all Volkswagen Tiguan model years into the best, neutral and worst years, based on extensive research and data collection.
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | Best Years | Neutral Years | The Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (5N) | 2014 2015 2016 2017 | N/A | 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 |
| Second generation (AD/BW). | 2020 2021 2023 2024 | 2022 | 2018 2019 |
The “Neutral Year” didn’t have any outstanding qualities or issues that were significant, so they are a good choice for buyers.
NHTSA Recalls can negatively affect our ranking. A greater number of recalls and complaints usually indicates a lower level of reliability.
Here’s a look at the Volkswagen Tiguan in its best, neutral and worst years.
Best & Worst Years for Volkswagen Tiguan 1st Generation (2009-2017)
The Volkswagen Tiguan is the first generation. It was created to provide a premium experience, with a focus on comfort, efficiency and versatility.
Best years for VW Tiguan first generation are 2014-2017, while worst years to avoid range from 2009 to 2013
The best years: 2014,2015,2016,2017
From 2014 until 2017, the Volkswagen Tiguan’s best years were marked with significant improvements to reliability and features.
These models are equipped with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that delivers around 200 horsepower. They offer a pleasing power/fuel efficiency mix, and average 21 city/26 highwayMPG.
This 6-speed transmission features Tiptronic with Sport Mode for smooth shifting and a fun driving experience.
In these years, technology has improved and there have been improvements in safety. These include an infotainment touchscreen system, Bluetooth compatibility, and standard rearview cameras.
The SE and SEL trim levels offered features like leather seats, panoramic sunroofs and keyless entry and push button start.
These years, despite some minor issues that persist, are considered to be the most reliable in the VW Tiguan first generation lineup. There were fewer recalls and complaints than previous models.
The worst years: 2009, 2010 2011, 2012, 2013.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2009-2010 models were especially problematic. Timing chain tensioner failures could cause severe engine damage, and rear seal failures caused oil leaks.
Other electrical problems include sunroof leaks and degraded insulation for headlights.
In 2010, and 2011, the clock springs failed on some models, causing problems such as power steering and airbags to malfunction.
Water pump failures in the VW Tiguan 2012-2013 models are common, causing overheating, and even engine damage.
The recalls also affected the exterior lighting due to fuse box failures and clock springs in airbags.
These problems affected both the reliability and desire of early Tiguans, making them unattractive to buyers.
NHTSA Volkswagen Tiguan Recalls and Complaints 2009, 2010, 2011 2012 2013
The Best and Worst Years of the Volkswagen Tiguan 2nd Generation from 2018-2024
In 2018, the Volkswagen Tiguan was introduced as a second-generation model. Its increased dimensions, enhanced features and better driving dynamics were designed to appeal to a wider audience.
The best time to purchase a Volkswagen Tiguan is between 2020 and 2024.
The best years: 2021, 2020, 2023 and 2024
What year is best for Volkswagen Tiguan? What are the best years to buy a second-generation Tiguan?
The 2.0L turbocharged I4 delivers 184hp, 221lbft, and is paired with an automatic 8-speed transmission.
Fuel economy is around 29 highway and 22 city .
Safety features are very robust in this generation, with forward collision warnings, automatic emergency brakes, blindspot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
Interior improvements were made, including leather interiors, a touchscreen 8-inch infotainment, a digital cockpit and a sunroof.
The improved driving comfort, cabin comfort and reliability of these models make them stand out.
The Neutral Years 2022
It is a neutral model within the second-generation. The same turbocharged 2.0L engine with 8-speed transmission was used as in the previous years to maintain a consistent performance.
The 2022 VW Tiguan was recalled for engine lag and a lack of acceleration. Recalls were made for the 2022 model due to rear suspension knuckle breaks and rearview ineffectiveness.
The interior is comfortable and functional, and it’s perfect for people who want a well-rounded and reliable compact SUV but don’t need the latest innovations.
2018 and 2019: The worst years
In 2018, and 2019, the worst years for second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan models to avoid are 2018 and 2019. These two model years had a number of issues with engine performance, reliability, and other aspects.
Some owners reported issues such as excessive vibrations, engine hiccups, or a lack in throttle response.
Other electrical issues included engine power control modules (EPCs) that were not working properly and rattles from the structure of the car.
Recalls were issued for these models due to airbags and rear coil springs breaking.
These issues, combined with the frequent recalls required to fix them, had a significant impact on the reliability and desireability of the early models of the second generation.
NHTSA 2018, and 2019, Volkswagen Tiguan complaints.
Volkswagen Tiguan Resale Values
This graph shows the average Volkswagen Tiguan resale value across all model years.
The conclusion of the article is:
According to our analysis, the best years for Volkswagen Tiguan are from 2014 to 2017, 2020, 2021 and 2023. Years to avoid include 2009 to 2013, 2018 and 2019, due to reliability issues.
What features of the Volkswagen Tiguan do you consider most appealing and reliable?
Comment with your thoughts!
