The Good
The 2018 Tiguan offers a comfortable ride and a stylish, modern design that appeals emotionally. Practically, it boasts a spacious interior, available third-row seating for growing families, and decent fuel efficiency. The Tiguan provides good value for its size and features, making it a sensible choice.
The Bad
Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including slow response times. The engine performance can feel underwhelming, especially when fully loaded. Transmission hesitation has also been reported. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle's history and test drive it extensively to identify any potential problems.
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: One engine option: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
- Horsepower: 184 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD: EPA estimated 22 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- AWD: EPA estimated 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Around 9.3 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: 6.5-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cloth upholstery.
- SE: Adds 8-inch touchscreen, keyless access, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring.
- SEL: Adds panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, remote start, navigation, 18-inch wheels.
- SEL Premium: Adds leather upholstery, Fender premium audio system, digital cockpit, hands-free liftgate, automatic parking assist.
The 2018 Tiguan comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive (4Motion) is available on all trims. Third-row seating is optional on FWD models and standard on AWD models. The 2.0T engine provides adequate power for daily driving, but it can feel strained when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Fuel economy is competitive within the compact SUV class. The trim levels offer a good progression of features, allowing buyers to choose the level of equipment that best suits their needs and budget.
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | PUEBLA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Have?
Regarding recalls, it's essential to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any open recalls specific to your VIN. Common recall items for this generation Tiguan have included issues with the rearview camera and potential fuel leaks.
Long-term reliability is a concern for some owners. The water pump and thermostat housing on the 2.0T engine are known to be potential failure points. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial to prevent or mitigate these issues. Additionally, some owners have reported premature wear of brake components. It's recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before buying a used 2018 Tiguan.
How long will the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features include available adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and park assist. These features become more prevalent in the higher trim levels.
Safety features include standard electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags. Optional features include a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free liftgate.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS should be checked for the most up-to-date information. Generally, the 2018 Tiguan performed well in crash tests, earning good scores in several categories. The availability of advanced safety features on higher trims enhances its overall safety profile. The digital cockpit, available on the SEL Premium, provides a customizable display of driving information.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Prices and Market Value
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Cost of Ownership
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Fuel Efficiency
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Recalls & Defects
Engine
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Exterior Lighting:tail Lights
AIR Bags:frontal
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Visibility:sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/Panel
Suspension:rear:shock Absorber
Suspension:rear:springs:coil Springs
Unknown or Other
Seat Belts:front:webbing
Structure:body
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
The Honda CR-V is a strong alternative due to its proven reliability, efficient engine, and spacious interior. The Toyota RAV4 offers similar benefits with a reputation for longevity. The Mazda CX-5 provides a more engaging driving experience. The Nissan Rogue offers a more affordable option with decent fuel economy.
If reliability is a top priority, the CR-V or RAV4 would be better choices. If driving enjoyment is key, the CX-5 is a strong contender. If budget is a major concern, the Rogue could be considered. The Tiguan offers a decent balance of features and practicality, particularly with its available third-row seating, but it's crucial to weigh its potential reliability concerns against its advantages.
Ranks #1360 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1360 | 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
John on November 21, 2024
Our family of 5 has traveled across US, Canada, & manyOur family of 5 has traveled across US, Canada, & many many daily city miles, in our Tiguan (almost 200k) with solid performance. General maintenance, & a loose nut on window regulator. Acceleration slowed but spray clean of mass air flow (MAF) sensor solved issue. Seats are comfy enough but maybe less engineered for 1,000-mile trips. 2018 infotech was quirky, but good enough. Folding 3rd row, full sun & added hitch for bikes etc. make this smallish SUV super convenient for city as well as long trips.
EM Buzzy on September 7, 2024
Got it when VW had a 6-year warranty.Got it when VW had a 6-year warranty. Have had no problems. Reliable, fun to drive. Pano and 3rd row. An excellent family car and well appointed German engineering.
Romauro Perry on August 28, 2024
My 2018 VW Tiguan has been good to me, I bought it 3My 2018 VW Tiguan has been good to me, I bought it 3 years ago, no major issues with the engine or transmission. In April I replaced the driver side window master switch. I order it on eBay and put it in myself. Beside that no issues at all keeping my fingers crossed.
Frustrated with this car on February 8, 2024
Not at all what I expectedI have a 2018 vw tiguan 4 motion SEL 90,000 Kms -stored during summer - have had so much trouble with it . I’m ready to ditch it . Engine light on -they found all kinds of issues with thermostat housing leaking coolant and the coil spring broken along with ball joint . Then there’s the control arm bushings that are separated and need replacing . All this happened since my last visit 3 months ago ;( My recommendation: do not buy this version . It’s sad because I waited for the new version of the Tiguan before buying . Guess I should have waited a little longer ðŸ™
Cody D on December 15, 2023
Love this car!!I love my Tiguan. I have seen some complaints about the seats not being comfortable, However, I find mine to be vastly more comfortable then other cars I have been in. I have the SEL Premium so that may have something to do with it. That being said, The car is beautiful and all of my friends just love it many saying they wish they had a car like mine. Three of them are currently looking at getting a Volkswagen as their next car. Overall, it rides nice, has great features at a price point that could not be beat, and the car does pretty well on mileage in my opinion. I still walkout and see my car and think "wow that is a great looking car." The only issue I have is a pretty trivial one, the sports mode which has a fantastic "zip" uses a bit too much gas. I would buy this car over and over again. I love it I also have never had a problem on any of my trips to and from NY and Florida
T. Zubris on December 3, 2023
Looks nice, not reliableHad a 2018 Tiguan SE for 7 years, was a great car for the first 5 though its acceleration was weak and it sometimes felt jumpy in the highway, even with new engine coils and spark plugs. In addition to regular maintenance, I would always take it in for a tune up before roadtrips and got any necessary maintenance required. With less than $70k miles on it, during a roadtrip the engine lost the ability to accelerate while on the interstate, after $1,000 in repairs plus a hotel and a delayed trip, it did it again at 74k miles, leaving me stranded in a different state again. That cost me $900 of repairs, a rental, and 3 days of missed family time. This car is unreliable and I would. It recommend it. The interior and body were great, loved the pano sunroof.
Volkswagen fan. on December 1, 2023
Volkswagens are the best!Bought this car pre-owned with low mileage. Runs great, looks classy and is well built. It’s also reliable and great on gas. Would definitely buy another Volkswagen.
paularoo on August 11, 2022
Comfort -designed by a Gulag Hospitality DirectorThe seats in this car are awful. They have no padding!, you will be very stiff after a long drive. Would sacrifice a little interior space for more comfortable seats.
Me on July 6, 2022
Great carI’ve had this car since it was new and it’s never let me down Has all the bells and whistles and I would recommend this model car to anyone. Love the ride very smooth.
netthing on May 28, 2021
good standard featuresI have SEL. It has a lot of good features, safety brake, backup camera, alerts when close to a person or object....etc. These features make me feel much safer when driving. The space is adequate for a small family.