First Look Review: 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line

In the world of Volkswagen, the Tiguan has become a modern icon, especially in North America. While the Golf still holds its place in Europe, it's the Tiguan that has stolen the hearts of American drivers. And it's no wonder, as compact crossovers have become the preferred choice for many. In fact, a staggering 71 percent of Volkswagen's 2021 sales volume in the US consists of SUVs. Leading the pack is the second-generation Tiguan, making it a true golden goose for the brand.

To keep the Tiguan fresh and competitive, Volkswagen has made some exciting changes for the 2022 model year. The trim structure has been refined, with the SEL trim being replaced by the SEL R-Line. Packed with new tech and a fresh front end, the 2022 SEL R-Line is ready to impress. With features like a 10-inch Digital Cockpit Pro infotainment system, Fender Premium Audio, and redesigned 20-inch alloy wheels, it offers a luxurious driving experience.

Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line side profile

Underneath its sleek exterior, the Tiguan shares the same MQB architecture as its siblings, including the Golf and Atlas. The design is clean and elegant, with subtle changes that evoke the larger Atlas Cross Sport. The addition of standard LED headlights and taillights, along with an optional illuminated grille, gives the Tiguan SEL R-Line a distinctive and sophisticated look. Adding to its appeal are two new exterior colors: Oryx White and Kings Red. The pronounced character line that runs from the taillights to the front quarter is a design trait shared with the Tiguan's smaller sibling, the Taos.

When compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5, the Tiguan stands out with its spacious interior and generous legroom. The second row is particularly welcoming, but the optional third row is quite cramped and only suitable for small children. Despite this drawback, the Tiguan SEL R-Line offers refined features like ventilated leather seats, providing a high level of comfort for the driver. All trims now come with heated front seats as a standard feature, making even the base S model a great choice.

Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line interior seats

Under the hood, the Tiguan is powered by a reliable and capable turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. While it may not be the most thrilling powertrain, it is more than sufficient for everyday driving needs. With a focus on fuel efficiency, the Tiguan achieves impressive mpg ratings. The front-wheel-drive models offer 26 mpg combined, while the all-wheel-drive models achieve 25 mpg. The R-Line trims, known for their sporty flair, still prioritize fuel economy with a rating of 24 mpg. The only downside is a noticeable lag from the throttle pedal, which can be frustrating when accelerating from a stop.

Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line engine

When it comes to the driving experience, the Tiguan excels. The steering is light and predictable, while the brakes are easy to modulate at low speeds. It offers a comfortable and relaxing ride, ideal for long journeys without the need for frequent breaks.

However, the touch-sensitive interface of the Tiguan can be frustrating to use, requiring a bit of patience and concentration. The capacitive buttons in the SEL R-Line trim can be challenging to operate, often leading to uncertainty or accidental presses. While the base S and SE trims feature traditional analog buttons, the higher trims resort to capacitive buttons, which may be a deal-breaker for some drivers. On the positive side, the SEL R-Line's 10.3-inch infotainment screen includes physical control knobs for power and volume, offering a more user-friendly experience.

A highlight for audiophiles is the Fender eight-speaker sound system, which delivers exceptional audio quality. The balanced system, complete with a subwoofer located in the trunk and integrated into the spare tire, outperforms the competition. Additionally, improved road noise insulation in the SEL trim enhances the overall driving experience.

Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line rear three-quarter action

The Tiguan's popularity stems from its versatility, attractive design, and outstanding value for money. Volkswagen has truly listened to the needs of US buyers, and the Tiguan reflects that understanding. While it faces stiff competition from Toyota's RAV4 and Honda's CR-V, and even its smaller sibling, the Taos, the Tiguan holds its ground with its perfect size and well-rounded features. Whether you're a small family or an individual looking for a practical and stylish crossover, the Tiguan is a fantastic choice.

2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line

• Base Price/As Tested: $27,190 / $37,790
• Highs: Sharp design, plenty of space, features befitting a pricier vehicle
• Lows: Frustrating touch-sensitive controls, limited sportiness, throttle could be more responsive
• Summary: The Tiguan proves that Volkswagen understands the needs of US buyers. With thoughtful updates for 2022, this crossover will continue to shine for years to come.