2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Highlights

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan introduces several updates, helping it keep up with rivals in the highly competitive compact crossover segment. The Tiguan aims to offer improved value and versatility with new standard features and a fresh trim level.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Seating for up to seven passengers
• 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD)
• New SE R-Line Black trim added to the lineup
• VW Car-Net and Wi-Fi hotspot now standard across all trims
• Expanded suite of standard driver assistance features

Benefits

• Spacious interior with flexible seating configurations
• Standard third-row seat in FWD models (optional in AWD)
• User-friendly technology features
• The comprehensive suite of standard safety features
• Optional all-wheel drive
• Smooth and comfortable ride quality

Related: Which Years Of Used Volkswagen Tiguans Are Most Reliable?

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Overview

Performance

A single-engine across all trims powers the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan:

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

This powertrain balances performance and efficiency, suitable for daily driving and light off-road use when equipped with AWD. The turbocharged engine offers good low-end torque, providing responsive acceleration in urban environments.

The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency compared to earlier models. It features a sport mode for more spirited driving, allowing the engine to rev higher before shifting.

While not marketed as a performance vehicle, the Tiguan's powertrain delivers adequate acceleration for most driving situations. Due to the added weight, the 0-60 mph time is around 8.2 seconds for FWD models and slightly slower for AWD versions.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Tiguan a top five-star overall safety rating. However, NHTSA issued an advisory that the front seat passenger may be more vulnerable to ejection in a collision. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also named the 2020 Tiguan a Top Safety Pick, the organization’s second-highest designation.

• Standard safety features across all trims include:
• Six airbags, including side curtain airbags for all rows
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

For 2020, Volkswagen has expanded the standard driver assistance features to include:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Additional available features include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keeping assist
• Parking sensors
• Automatic high beams
• Surround-view monitor

Driving

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan prioritizes comfort and stability in its driving experience. The vehicle's well-tuned suspension absorbs most road imperfections. While not as sporty as some competitors, the Tiguan offers predictable and confidence-inspiring handling suitable for everyday driving. Road and wind noise are well-suppressed, contributing to a quiet cabin environment. This makes the Tiguan well-suited for both daily commutes and long-distance road trips.

The available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on slippery surfaces and light off-road situations. It includes a drive mode selector that allows the driver to optimize the vehicle's performance for various conditions, including snow. Visibility is generally good, aided by the Tiguan's elevated seating position and large windows.

The R-Line trims offer a slightly sportier driving experience with unique suspension tuning and larger wheels. However, the difference is subtle and doesn't significantly alter the Tiguan's comfort-oriented character.

Interior

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan interior offers a well-designed, spacious environment emphasizing practicality and comfort. The cabin design is clean and modern, focusing on high-quality materials and user-friendly controls.

Key interior features include:

• Available third-row seating (standard on FWD models, optional on AWD)
• 40/20/40-split folding second-row seats
• Available V-Tex leatherette or leather seating surfaces
• Available panoramic sunroof
• Dual-zone automatic climate control (SE and above)
• Available heated front seats and steering wheel

The Tiguan's interior space is strong, with ample head and legroom in the first and second rows. The optional third row, while tight for adults, provides added versatility for families with small children.

Cargo space is generous and flexible:

• 33.0 cubic feet behind the second row (two-row models)
• 65.7 cubic feet with the second row folded (two-row models)
• 12.0 cubic feet behind the third row (three-row models)
• 65.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded (three-row models)

The 40/20/40-split second row allows for various cargo and passenger configurations, adding to the Tiguan's versatility. Interior storage is well-thought-out, with numerous bins and pockets for small items. The center console offers ample space for everyday carry items, and the door pockets are sizable enough to accommodate water bottles.

Technology

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan’s technology is based on the MIB II infotainment system. Standard and available features include:

• 6.5-inch touchscreen display (S trim)
• 8-inch touchscreen display (SE and above)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Available Fender Premium Audio System
• Available Volkswagen Digital Cockpit (fully digital instrument cluster)
• VW Car-Net telematics system (now standard on all trims)
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability (now standard on all trims)

Fuel Economy

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class, varying slightly between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 22 city / 29 highway / 25 combined
• AWD (mpg): 20 city / 27 highway / 23 combined

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Reviews

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5. Owners praise the Tiguan for its value, quality, reliability, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Versatile interior with optional third-row seating
• Competitive fuel economy for its class
• Numerous standard advanced drive aids
• Available all-wheel drive
• Predictable ride quality
• Good visibility

Problems

• Engine power may feel inadequate for some drivers, especially during highway passing
• Third-row seating is tight for adults
• Cargo space is reduced in three-row models
• Higher trims can get expensive compared to some rivals

Explore: How Long Do Volkswagen Tiguans Last?

CoPilot's Take

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan presents a compelling option in the compact crossover SUV segment. It blends practicality, comfort, and European-inspired design in a package that generally offers good value for money. The Tiguan's strengths lie in its spacious and flexible interior, smooth ride quality, and comprehensive suite of standard safety features.

Adding the SE R-Line Black trim and expanding standard features, including VW Car-Net and Wi-Fi hotspot capability, enhance Tiguan's appeal and value. The optional third-row seating, while tight for adults, provides added versatility that's rare in this class.

However, potential buyers should be aware of some negatives. The single-engine option, while efficient, may feel underpowered for some drivers, particularly during highway passing or when fully loaded.

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan FAQs

How reliable is a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan?

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan reliability falls in the average range. J.D. Power gave the 2020 Tiguan a reliability rating of 77 out of 100, an average score on this scale. Consumer Reports rates it slightly lower at 73 out of 100. As with any vehicle, regular maintenance and proper care can significantly impact long-term reliability.

Are there any issues with the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan?

A review of records from NHTSA and carcomplaints.com shows a few common complaints, including:

• Occasional hesitation or lag from the transmission
• Random electrical glitches
• Excessive oil consumption
• Sudden activation of the automatic emergency braking without cause
• It's important to note that not all vehicles experience these issues.

How many miles will a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan last?

A 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper care. The lifespan will depend on driving habits, maintenance history, and environmental conditions.

What are the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan configurations?

The 2020 Tiguan is available in several trims:

• 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan S
• 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
• 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan SE R-Line Black
• 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL
• 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL Premium R-Line

Check Out: How To Use The Volkswagen Tiguan Remote Start