VW’s compact crossover has just been updated. The mid-cycle refresh has brought new exterior and interior stylings, as well as more features. That’s why we are pretty sure that the current generation has enough quality to compete with rivals in the next few years. Logically, the full redesign won’t happen in the next year or two, so the 2023 VW Tiguan will most likely come without notable changes. We are about to see a familiar design, with minor tweaks only.
So, you may count on a compact crossover that has a lot of great things to offer. We like its spacious cabin and optional third row. Also, the interior quality is really good, while the amount of tech features is respectable as well. The cargo area is one of the most generous in the class, while the ride is quite composed. On the other hand, the main complaint goes to the underpowered engine.
As there are no significant changes to come, we expect that the 2023 VW Tiguan will hit the market sometime late in 2022.
2023 VW Tiguan Redesign
Design-wise, the 2023 VW Tiguan definitely won’t bring any surprise. The crossover has just been updated with new front and rear ends. The new face features revised headlights and grille, as well as a new bumper. On the other end, there is a new tailgate, as well as new taillights. All new parts are fitted to the latest design language and we can find a lot of similarities with the new-generation Golf hatchback. So, the best we could see for the next year is the addition of new color options.
On the other hand, the mechanical aspect of the vehicle hasn’t changed much since its initial launch in 2016. This crossover is based on the MQB platform and features pretty good ride quality. We like the suspension setup, which offers a nice balance between comfort and athleticism.
Interior
On the inside, the Tiguan comes with a typical VW design. The dashboard looks a little bit dull and there’s no doubt that several rivals look fancier. However, just a few of them can match Tiguan’s build quality and materials. This cabin is built to last and that’s what really matters.
Besides great build quality, this cabin offers plenty of room. Standard models come with two rows of seats. Both of them accommodate adults with ease, while the front seats are also decently sized and offer good side support. On the other hand, the optional third row is tight but can be functional for kids.
When it comes to the cargo area, the three-row model offers around 12 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 33 cubic feet behind the second, and a total of 65.3 cubic feet behind the first. The two-row model is more generous with space and offers around 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet in total, which is great for a compact SUV.
Features
Considering the recent update, it’s hard to expect any more notable changes regarding the standard and available equipment. Things will mostly remain the same as in the current model, which comes standard with goodies like keyless entry, a 6.5-inch touch screen, a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Mirror Link, Apple CarPlay, two USB ports, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and an 8-inch digital gauge cluster. In higher trim levels, you can get an 8-inch touch screen, a 10.25-inch digital cockpit, a nine-speaker Fender audio system, satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, two more USB ports, and wireless device charging.
When it comes to safety, the current model comes standard with blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, rearview camera etc.
2023 VW Tiguan Engine
Under the hood, the 2023 VW Tiguan will continue with just one engine on the offer. That is a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough for daily commuting and the crossover feels a little bit underpowered on the highway. If you’re looking for something peppier, Mazda CX-5 with the turbo engine is a way better choice.
The engine comes in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is smooth and refined. When it comes to fuel economy, you may count on 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, which isn’t particularly great for the class. If fuel economy is on your priority list, RAV4 is a way better choice, whether you pick the gasoline or hybrid version.
2023 VW Tiguan Release Date and Price
Considering that there are no significant changes to come, we expect that the 2023 VW Tiguan will hit the market sometime in the last quarter of 2022. Base models should go around 27.000 dollars, while the most expensive versions can get pretty close to $40.000.