After undergoing its major overhaul for 2018, the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan remains relatively unchanged. Now in its second generation, the 2019 Tiguan sees a design that in keeping with the rest of the VW lineup and also brings some modern technology and features to the forefront. The major redesign also brought with it the addition of third row seating, a new engine, an eight speed automatic transmission and an overall larger size. The 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan is the smallest of VW’s SUV lineup and fits in below the VW Touareg, which is smaller than the full sized VW Atlas.
ENGINE & DRIVE
The 2019 VW Tiguan keeps things simple by offering only a single powertrain consisting of the 2.0 TSI four cylinder engine, outputting 184hp and paired with the eight speed automatic transmission. The Trendline is a front wheel drive as standard (optional upgrade), while the Comfortline and Highline get the 4MOTION all wheel drive which directs power as needed to any of the 4 wheels to gain better traction and smoother handling.
While the hp rating for the 2019 Tiguan’s engine may seem low on paper and especially since the size of the SUV is now larger, it does a great job of hauling around the new frame whether full of passengers and cargo or just for the typical commute. The peppy engine is responsive and makes for fun, zippy accelerations.
The handling of the 2019 Volkwagen Tiguan feels more like a car with precise steering and cornering, grippy traction and overall sturdy road feel. The body sway due to the higher seating position is the only thing giving away the fact that it’s an SUV. However, this overall engaging drive will appeal to those looking for more emphasis on performance.
I particularly liked the adaptive headlights that light up around corners as you turn, making night driving much safer, which I think this should be included as a standard feature on all cars as it really does make a huge difference at night.
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR DESIGN
The bolder design of the second generation Tiguan brings it in line with the design cues of the 2019 VW Atlas which showcases a bold and aggressive exterior appearance. Sleek and hard lines, combined with a bit of roundness come together to create the refined and timeless design for which VW has come to be known.
The new narrow yet sleek grille spans the full width of the front end and ties together the LED headlights, lower fog lights and fenders. The overall pleasing shape of the 2019 Tiguan is highlighted with accent lines and chrome and black highlights throughout, moving through the pleasing side profile and all coming together in the beefy rear end with shiny dual exhaust and an appearance similar to that of the Atlas.
The interior of the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan sees some of the best improvements over the first generation design. Modern design cues, some of the latest technology and top notch materials all put together in a high quality build. The larger interior space, two tone leather and full length sunroof truly make the cabin a pleasure to sit in.
The new digital gauge display behind the wheel offers versatility in what can be displayed and keeps everything important within the driver’s field of view. A large touch screen display on the dash helps to control most of the features and helps to reduce the clutter of buttons on the dash. The versatility of the 2019 VW Tiguan, combined with the new third row seating gives lots of different options and configurations for transporting passengers and cargo.
FINAL THOUGHTS
With a entry level price of $29,225, the 2019 VW Tiguan starts towards the middle end of many of its competitors in the crowded compact SUV category. However, the second generation design should do a lot to keep the 2019 Tiguan relevant and competitive within the market. A top quality build, elegant interior space and a bold exterior have all come together to create a desirable and versatile family vehicle.
