The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor stereo system and A/C issues reported. At $19,200 to $32,990, it’s a good value for a compact SUV with a more upscale interior and an optional third row.
Is the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Tiguan since it features a lot of technology along with good reliability ratings. Owner reviews praise the passenger space, smooth acceleration, along with the responsive steering.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are luxurious for a compact SUV in its price range, the seats are very comfortable, cargo space is also good for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread mechanical complaints on the 2020 VW Tiguan. Avoid models from 2009–2013 since they have engine issues, while 2014–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, although it’s not very exciting to drive.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2020 Tiguan is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist as well as adaptive cruise control.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 25 MPG, giving 382 miles of range from the 15.3 gallon tank. Gas costs are $21 cheaper than average at $186 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is a good value since it offers a lot of features at an affordable price.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the VW Tiguan?
- Consumer Reports says the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a very nice efficient engine, with good owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Tiguan at 3.8/5, praising the passenger and cargo space, but doesn’t like the slow engine.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Tiguan a 4.4/5, enjoying the advanced entertainment technology, but owners don’t like the stiff suspension.
What Common Problems Does the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Have?
Common problems found on the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan include Bluetooth issues, a weak A/C system, along with water leaking into the cabin. Overall, most of these problems are relatively minor compared to other compact SUVs on the market.
Bluetooth issues are the most widespread complaint from 2020 VW Tiguan owners in the first 1,000 miles. The Bluetooth system for the stereo simply loses connection randomly, leading to disconnects. There are software updates available which improve the reliability of the connection, which most dealerships will install for free, while some charge around $50.
A weak A/C system is another issue mentioned by Tiguan owners at around 10,000 miles. Usually when the A/C system is blowing weak, it’s a sign of a clogged line somewhere in the system. Diagnosing the source of the problem costs around $150, while fixing it can cost $50 to $300, depending on the source.
Water leaking into the cabin also shows up on some Tiguan models with a sunroof. The drain line for the sunroof gets clogged up with debris or comes loose, allowing water to leak into the cabin. Repairing the issue usually costs under $100, depending on local labor rates.
There are three recalls on the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, which is similar to other small SUVs. The most serious recall is for the third row seat belt anchor bolt, which VW will fix by installing a new bolt. Other recalls cover the rear spoiler, along with the seat backs, which Volkswagen will also repair for free.
How Long Will the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Last?
A well-maintained 2020 VW Tiguan can last around 250,000 miles, which is about 50,000 miles less than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than some other small SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $650 per year.
As a used 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the brake master cylinder for $400, transmission oil pan gasket costing $300, along with the axle shaft seal which costs $375.
I think its reliable it's also brand new. Drives smoothly and has amazing features that I am still learning.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is very good with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen stereo system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen along with a more powerful Fender stereo system.
Safety technology is excellent for a small SUV with standard features including:
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rearview camera
Some optional driver assistance features include:
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Adaptive headlights
- Lane keep assist
- Surround-view parking camera system
Is the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan a Good Value?
Yes, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is a good value since it offers a decent amount of luxury for the money. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $19,200 to $32,990, making it less than a Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester. When new, the price range was $24,945 to $38,795. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the VW Tiguan?
There are five different models of the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offered from the base S all the way to the luxurious SEL Premium R-Line. The Tiguan is also offered with standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive.
S is the entry-level model with:
- Cloth Seating
- 40/20/40 Split Folding Rear Seat
- 5-Inch Display
- Six-Speaker Stereo System
- Rearview Camera
- Wi-Fi HotSpot
SE is a step up, adding:
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Proximity Keyless Entry
- Synthetic Leather Upholstery
- Power Adjustable Driver’s Seat
- Heated Front Seats
- Wireless Device Charging
- 8-Inch Touchscreen
- Satellite Radio
SE R-Line Black adds features such as:
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Black Styling Accents
- Larger Alloy Wheels
SEL is next in the lineup with:
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Remote Start
- Power Liftgate
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Navigation System
SEL Premium R-Line is the flagship model which has:
- Unique Exterior Styling Elements
- Hands-Free Liftgate
- Surround-View Parking Camera
- Premium Leather Seats
- Nine-Speaker Fender Stereo System
What Engines Come In the VW Tiguan?
The engine found in the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is an average 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which makes 184 horsepower at up to 25 MPG. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Performance is okay, taking 8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the VW Tiguan Come In?
How Comfortable Is the VW Tiguan?
The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is widely regarded as a comfortable and practical compact SUV. Its cabin is designed to be spacious, providing ample headroom, legroom and overall interior space, which can contribute to a feeling of comfort for drivers and passengers. Additionally, the vehicle’s suspension system is designed to provide a smooth ride, which can help to minimize discomfort caused by bumps and vibrations on the road.
Finally, the Tiguan’s seats are comfortable and supportive, offering a good balance of cushioning and firmness to help keep occupants comfortable on longer journeys. Overall, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a comfortable ride and ample space, which can make it a good choice for drivers looking for a practical and comfortable SUV.
How Much Storage Space Does the VW Tiguan Have?
The S, SE, SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims come with a standard cargo capacity of 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up, which can be expanded to 73.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The SE R-Line Black trim has a slightly larger cargo capacity, with 38.7 cubic feet with the rear seats up, which can be expanded to 73.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. That’s more than enough space to fit cargo for a family.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The second generation of the Volkswagen Tiguan came out for the 2018 model year.
2015: More standard features including a rearview camera, 5-inch touchscreen, along with an automatic transmission.
2016: Standard heated front seats, vinyl upholstery, along with keyless ignition and entry.
2017: SE and R-Line models are discontinued, Wolfsburg Edition and Sport models introduced, standard 6.3-inch touchscreen.
2018: Fully redesigned with a roomier interior, third row, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, also more efficient engines.
2019: Minor trim level options changed.
2020: Heated steering wheel on SEL model, more standard driver safety features.
2021: New infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen, standard adaptive cruise control on the SE model.
How Does the VW Tiguan Compare to the Competition?
The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is a very nice compact SUV offering good reliability with an entry-level German build quality giving it a more luxurious feel than a lot of the competition.
The Nissan Rogue is another compact SUV available for around $3,500 less. Standard safety technology is a bit better in the Nissan Rogue, while the VW Tiguan offers a more luxurious and spacious interior. We recommend the Volkswagen Tiguan since it is a more reliable choice long-term.
The Jeep Cherokee is a popular competitor available for around $1,000 less. Off-road performance is better with the Jeep Cherokee’s 4WD system, while the VW Tiguan has more room for passengers and cargo. We recommend the VW Tiguan, although both are nice, for the 2020 model year making it worth testing them out to see which you prefer.
Do Owners Recommend the VW Tiguan?
Yes, it's my 1st new car in a long time. Its pricey but well worth it. Still learning all the gadget's.