The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact family SUV/Crossover that was first introduced back in 2007 and has since spawned three generations. The very latest 2023 Tiguan model is mostly a carryover from the 2022 model which means that it is not changing for the 2023 model year. However, if you want to know all about 2023 VW Tiguan, be sure to stick around as that is exactly the topic of today’s article.
For the 2023 model year, VW has introduced new wheel designs, especially for the higher-end trim models. VW has also equipped the Tiguan with 45W charging through the in-board USB chargers. Besides that, the VW Tiguan stays the same as the 2022 model which is no bad thing because the Tiguan was redesigned about a year ago.
You are still getting powerful, sophisticated, and efficient engines, VWs trusty DSG dual-clutch gearbox, and the option to go for either FWD or 4MOTION AWD. Design-wise, the Tiguan has a few components from the new VW Golf which make it more modern and more in line with the rest of the VW catalog.
Reliability-wise, the 2023 is likely to remain the same as the 2022 model which means that it should do okay. Value-wise, a small price hike is expected due to inflation while practicality is going to stay the same, in other words, the Tiguan is going to remain a really practical crossover/SUV.
2023 VW Tiguan – The Powertrain
The VW Tiguan is offered with a 1.5L TSI 4-cylinder turbocharged engine in two different stages of tune. The more modestly tuned 1.5L engine offers 130hp and 162lb-ft of torque while the more powerful 1.5L TSI offers 150hp and 184lb-ft of torque. You can also buy a PHEV version of the 2023 Tiguan which offers a 1.4L gasoline engine and an electric motor for a combined output of 245hp and 295lb-ft of torque.
All of these engines are mated to VWs familiar 6-speed DCT DSG automatic transmission which is known to be smooth and sophisticated but can be jerky at times, especially at lower speeds. Standard Tiguan models come with FWD while 4MOTION AWD is available as an option for the more powerful 1.5L engines.
Efficiency-wise, the PHEV model is understandably the most efficient with 131MPG combined while the 1.5L TSI returns 37MPG max. Other markets also offer the Tiguan with a 2.0L TDI engine with 150hp which returns up to 43MPG combined.
2023 VW Tiguan – Design and Driving
As mentioned in the beginning, the VW got a hefty refresh for the 2022 model year which made it really modern and in line with the new VW Golf. This means that it gets new LED lights all around and a more streamlined look all around. The interior is now featuring the new steering wheel with haptic touch and a fussy A/C system which had mixed reception when it first came out.
We also need to mention that the Tiguan comes with up to 7 seats as the Allspace model which is the preferred choice for families. Driving-wise, the Tiguan drives like a slightly raised-up VW Golf which makes it a great daily driver with a consistent driving experience that is comfortable and not overly dynamic.
2023 VW Tiguan – Reliability and Common Issues
As far as reliability is concerned, the VW Tiguan seems to do okay as J.D. Power awarded it with a 76/100 rating which is considered average. The most common VW Tiguan problems are associated with the DSG transmission, issues with the brakes, issues with various essential and non-essential electrical components, and sometimes even the engine.
All in all, we do need to mention that diesel engines come with certain DPF issues which can be expensive to fix. All in all, it is a relatively cheap car to run and maintain which is why it shouldn’t be a problem if you take proper care of it.
2023 VW Tiguan – Value and Practicality
The price for the 2023 Tiguan ranges between $26,590 for lower-end models with FWD while higher-end trims with the more powerful engine and 4MOTION cost closer to $37,000. For that price, the Tiguan is surely a competitive family SUV that can offer quite a lot of value.
Practicality is really good as the Tiguan is one of the most spacious SUVs in its segment, especially if you go for the 7-seater Allspace model. Visibility is excellent, getting and out of the car is as easy as it gets, and mounting a child seat is a breeze thanks to easy-to-reach IsoFix mounting points and doors that open wide.
FAQ Section
Is the 2023 VW Tiguan worth it?
If you are someone who wants a capable daily driver that is safe, comfortable, efficient, and well-equipped, the Tiguan is a great choice. It may not have the wow factor of something like a Mercedes GLB, but it does everything the GLB does while also costing less money.
Some may consider it to be a bit boring, but that is usually the case with SUVs that do everything like they are supposed to. All in all, it is indeed worth it to consider the Tiguan as your next daily driver as it offers everything you’d want from a 2023 crossover/SUV.
Is the 2023 VW Tiguan safe?
The 2023 Tiguan hasn’t been tested by the IIHS, but the 2022 Tiguan got a Top Safety Pick+ award which is only given to cars with the best safety credentials on the market. Because the 2023 model is mostly a carryover model, the 2023 Tiguan is going to perform the same.
Moreover, the Tiguan also gets all the modern safety features such as parking sensors, cameras, blind spot assist, lane keep assist, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, drowsiness sensors, and a whole host of other assistance features.
Which cars compete with the 2023 VW Tiguan?
The Tiguan competes with the likes of the Subaru Forester, the Toyota 4Runner, and the Honda CR-V. The more expensive Tiguan rivals include the Mercedes GLB/GLC, the Audi Q3/Q5, and the BMW X1/X3. It’s safe to say that the Tiguan does seem a lot better than the former Asian-made counterparts while premium German brands offer more of everything, but also cost more in the process.
