The Volkswagen Tiguan III, as configured for the North American market, represents the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s globally popular compact SUV. Introduced for the 2025 model year, this version of the Tiguan is specifically tailored to meet the preferences and regulations of American consumers. It slots into the highly competitive compact SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, technology, and Volkswagen’s signature driving experience. This particular model features a 1.4 TSI engine paired with a DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, focusing on fuel efficiency and responsive performance.
Volkswagen Tiguan III: A North American Perspective
The Tiguan has a long history, originating in Europe as a more affordable and compact alternative to the Touareg. The “III” designation signifies the third generation of the Tiguan, though the North American version differs somewhat from its European counterpart. While the European Tiguan is based on the MQB platform and offers a longer wheelbase option, the North American Tiguan has historically been based on a stretched version of the older PQ46 platform, and the 2025 model continues this approach. This allows for a larger interior volume, a key consideration for American families. The 2025 model year represents a continuation of this strategy, refining the existing platform with updated technology and powertrain options.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan III 1.4 TSI DSG is a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque (equivalent to 184.39 lb.-ft.) between 1500-3500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in concert to deliver a broad torque curve, providing responsive acceleration in everyday driving situations. The engine’s direct injection system contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a sophisticated 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. This transmission offers quick and seamless gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. The weight-to-power ratio is 10.3 kg/Hp (97.1 Hp/tonne), and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.2 kg/Nm (161.8 Nm/tonne). Fuel economy is rated at 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) in urban conditions, 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and a combined 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 154 g/km.
Design & Features
The 2025 Tiguan III maintains the contemporary SUV styling cues established in previous generations. It’s a five-door SUV with seating for five passengers. The exterior design is characterized by clean lines, a prominent grille, and available LED lighting. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4670 mm (183.86 in) in length, 1866 mm (73.46 in) in width, and 1665 mm (65.55 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2791 mm (109.88 in). Inside, the Tiguan offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. Key features include a modern infotainment system with touchscreen display, available digital instrument cluster, and a range of driver-assistance technologies. Safety is a priority, with standard features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive suite of airbags. The trunk offers a generous 750 liters (26.49 cu. ft.) of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1668 liters (58.9 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The fuel tank capacity is 55 liters (14.53 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Generation | Tiguan III (North America) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1545-1617 kg (3406.14 – 3564.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 493-565 kg (1086.88 – 1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1668 l (58.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal) |
| Length | 4670 mm (183.86 in.) |
| Width | 1866 mm (73.46 in.) |
| Height | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/55 R18; 255/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
The Volkswagen Tiguan III 1.4 TSI DSG represents a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and modern features. Its continued presence in the North American market demonstrates Volkswagen’s commitment to providing vehicles tailored to the needs of American drivers.
