The Volkswagen Tiguan III, as designated for the North American market, represents the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s globally popular compact SUV. Introduced for the 2025 model year, this generation Tiguan builds upon the success of its predecessors, offering a blend of practicality, technology, and performance tailored to the demands of North American consumers. Positioned within the highly competitive compact SUV segment, the Tiguan III aims to provide a spacious and versatile vehicle suitable for families and individuals alike. This version differs from the Tiguan Allspace (sold in Europe and other markets) by offering a standard wheelbase and five-passenger configuration, focusing on a more streamlined and accessible package for the US and Canadian markets.
Volkswagen Tiguan III: Overview and Market Positioning
The Tiguan has been a key model in Volkswagen’s lineup since its introduction in 2007. The third generation, specifically adapted for North America, emphasizes a more refined driving experience and updated technology. It competes directly with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5, all of which are prominent players in the compact SUV class. The North American Tiguan III prioritizes interior space and user-friendly technology, aiming to appeal to buyers seeking a well-rounded and practical vehicle. The 2.0 TSI 4MOTION Tiptronic variant represents a higher trim level, offering enhanced performance through its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system.
Engine & Performance
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan III 2.0 TSI 4MOTION Tiptronic is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, designated the EA888 evo5. This engine produces 201 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 300 Newton-meters (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4750 rpm. The engine’s direct injection and turbocharging contribute to a responsive driving experience and efficient fuel consumption. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which utilizes an electronically controlled clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. This system enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (Tiptronic), allowing for both automatic shifting and manual gear selection. The weight-to-power ratio is 8.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.8 kg/Nm, indicating a respectable power-to-weight balance. Fuel economy is rated at 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers (25.3 US mpg) combined, with 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg) in urban settings and 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) on the highway.
Design & Features
The Tiguan III boasts a modern and sophisticated exterior design, characterized by clean lines and a bold front grille. As a five-door SUV, it offers easy access to both front and rear seats. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4684 mm (184.41 in) in length, 1853 mm (72.95 in) in width, and 1688 mm (66.46 in) in height, providing ample interior space. The wheelbase measures 2791 mm (109.88 in). Inside, the Tiguan III features a well-appointed cabin with a focus on comfort and technology. Standard features include a digital instrument cluster, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a range of driver-assistance systems. The interior is designed to accommodate five passengers comfortably. Cargo space is a key highlight, offering 750 liters (26.49 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1668 liters (58.9 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features are comprehensive, including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The vehicle’s drag coefficient of 0.31 contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The approach, departure, and ramp-over angles are 18°, 25.2°, and 21.1° respectively, enhancing its off-road capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Generation | Tiguan III (North America) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (201 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 201 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1500-4750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 evo5 |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1728 kg (3809.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 592 kg (1305.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1668 l (58.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59.1 l (15.61 US gal | 13 UK gal) |
| Length | 4684 mm (184.41 in.) |
| Width | 1853 mm (72.95 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2151 mm (84.69 in.) |
| Height | 1688 mm (66.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
The Volkswagen Tiguan III 2.0 TSI 4MOTION Tiptronic represents a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a balance of performance, practicality, and technology. Its refined engine, all-wheel-drive system, and spacious interior make it a suitable choice for a wide range of buyers in the North American market.
