2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE for Sale: The Reliable Choice with Modern Features
Overview of the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has quickly become one of the most talked-about compact SUVs in the market. With a reputation for quality, German engineering, and a spacious interior, it promises both practicality and comfort. Whether you’re a commuter or a family driver, the Tiguan SE offers features that cater to multiple lifestyles.
While it stands as a solid performer in its class, the Tiguan SE is not perfect. We’ll break down both the pros and cons, so you can decide if this is the right car for your needs.
What’s Under the Hood?
The 2022 Tiguan SE comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission to provide smooth gear shifts and decent acceleration for a compact SUV. Though not a speed demon, it’s sufficient for most daily driving.
The Tiguan SE is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4MOTION all-wheel drive (AWD). The AWD system gives the Tiguan better grip in tricky weather conditions, making it ideal if you live somewhere with harsh winters.
Drawback:
Some drivers might find that the engine lacks the punch they expect during aggressive acceleration. “If you’re looking for speed and excitement, the Tiguan might not blow your mind,” says Alex Collantes, an owner who commutes daily.
Interior Comfort: Spacious and User-Friendly
Inside the cabin, the Tiguan SE aims to deliver a balance of practicality and style. With seating for up to seven passengers, thanks to its optional third-row seat (available on FWD models), it offers a bit more space than other compact SUVs.
The leatherette upholstery and heated front seats make this SUV feel premium. It also includes a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support for those long commutes.
Cabin Layout and Tech Features
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Infotainment System:
- The Tiguan SE features an 8-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- A Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless phone charging come standard, allowing easy connectivity.
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Digital Cockpit:
- Volkswagen has swapped out analog gauges for a customizable digital instrument cluster.
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Climate Control:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control makes it easy to keep everyone comfortable.
Drawback:
While spacious, the third-row seat feels cramped and is better suited for kids than adults. “The back row is more like a ‘just-in-case’ seat,” says Alex Collantes. He adds that adults will find it a tight fit.
Cargo Capacity
The Tiguan SE excels in terms of storage. With the third row folded, you get 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold down both rows, and the available cargo space expands to 73.4 cubic feet, making it perfect for weekend trips or large grocery runs.
However, with all seats in use, the cargo area shrinks considerably, making it less ideal for big families with lots of gear.
Driving Experience: How Does the Tiguan SE Handle?
The Tiguan SE offers a comfortable and quiet ride with well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps nicely. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. If you spend a lot of time on highways, the Tiguan provides good stability even at higher speeds.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Volkswagen ensures that the Tiguan SE stays competitive by equipping it with several safety technologies:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Rear cross-traffic alert
These features give drivers extra confidence, especially in city traffic and crowded parking lots.
Drawback:
Some drivers report that the lane-keeping assist can feel overly sensitive, making it more of a nuisance than a help at times.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The SE trim sits comfortably between the base S model and higher-end SEL trims, striking a balance between affordability and luxury. Below is a quick breakdown of what each Tiguan trim offers:
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S Trim:
- Cloth seats
- Manual air conditioning
- 17-inch wheels
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SE Trim (our focus):
- Leatherette upholstery
- Heated seats
- 18-inch alloy wheels
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SEL R-Line:
- Premium audio system
- Panoramic sunroof
- 20-inch wheels
The 2022 Tiguan SE typically retails around $30,000 depending on additional options.
Drawback:
Some buyers might feel that the SE trim misses out on premium touches like leather seats and advanced audio systems that are only available on higher trims.
Fuel Efficiency: How Economical Is It?
Fuel economy is a significant factor for many buyers. The Tiguan SE offers an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for the FWD model. If you opt for the AWD version, the numbers dip slightly to 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Drawback:
While these figures are decent, some competitors, such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, offer better gas mileage, which could sway budget-conscious buyers.
Warranty and Maintenance
Volkswagen provides a competitive 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, along with two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance. This gives peace of mind to first-time buyers. However, it’s worth noting that Volkswagen’s repair costs can be higher than average, which might catch you off-guard after the warranty expires.
Key Competitors: What Are the Alternatives?
The Tiguan SE is up against some heavyweights in the compact SUV segment. Here’s how it stacks up:
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Toyota RAV4
- Better fuel economy
- More advanced safety features
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Honda CR-V
- Roomier second row
- Quicker acceleration
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Mazda CX-5
- More engaging to drive
- Higher-quality interior
Drawback:
Although the Tiguan SE holds its ground well, it doesn’t excel in any single category, leaving it vulnerable to competitors that specialize in certain areas like driving dynamics or fuel efficiency.
Is the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE the Right SUV for You?
The 2022 Tiguan SE makes a solid case for itself with ample space, modern technology, and a comfortable ride. It’s an excellent option for drivers who need a versatile vehicle without the bulk of a full-size SUV.
Alex Collantes sums it up nicely: “It’s not the flashiest or fastest SUV out there but it does everything I need without any fuss. It just feels practical for everyday life.”
Final Verdict: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious interior with optional third row
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Good mix of tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Cons:
- Third-row seat feels cramped for adults
- Engine performance is adequate but not thrilling
- Repair costs can be high after the warranty ends
In conclusion, the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE offers plenty of value for drivers looking for comfort and practicality. While it has some drawbacks—such as a tight third row and average fuel economy—it excels at being a family-friendly, no-nonsense SUV. If you’re looking for a reliable and modern vehicle, the Tiguan SE is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the main difference between the SE and S trims?
The SE trim adds more comfort features like leatherette upholstery, heated seats, and an upgraded infotainment system compared to the more basic S trim.
2. Is the 2022 Tiguan SE good for road trips?
Yes! With plenty of cargo space and a smooth ride, it’s ideal for road trips. However, the third row might not be comfortable for long journeys.
3. How does the Tiguan compare to the Toyota RAV4?
The Tiguan offers more interior space, but the RAV4 edges it out in fuel efficiency and reliability.
4. Does the 2022 Tiguan SE support wireless Apple CarPlay?
Yes, it comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
Conclusion
The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE strikes a good balance between practicality, comfort, and technology. While not perfect, it’s a smart choice for anyone who wants a reliable and spacious compact SUV with modern features. For those in search of something fast or ultra-luxurious, it might not be the ideal pick—but if you’re after a well-rounded vehicle, the Tiguan SE could be just right.
If you’re shopping for a 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE for sale, now might be the perfect time to take one for a test drive and experience what it has to offer.