Skip advert
Advertisement

New Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line review – a rewarding SUV - Design

VW’s best-selling SUV is competent and refined, but it lacks its own clear personality

Evo rating
RRP
from £23,255
  • Sophisticated feel, base models look classy, satisfying to drive
  • Petrol engine feels more like a diesel, interior isn’t as premium as price tag might suggest

Arguably, it’s the base Tiguans that are the better looking of the range. The neat, sharp and clean lines that are typical of current VW styling aren’t corrupted by flashier grilles, glitzier badges and brighter trim of the higher level cars. 

The top-of-the-range R-Line, with its body-coloured lower half rather than durable-looking black plastic, contradicts VW’s general air of subtly and class. The extra sills and bumpers look stuck-on, like they’ve been added by an aftermarket tuner. With 20-inch wheels, too, it’s looks as though it’s trying very hard to be cool.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Morgan’s first coupe in over a decade is coming but it’s going to be very rare, and expensive
Morgan coupe coachbuild teaser
News

Morgan’s first coupe in over a decade is coming but it’s going to be very rare, and expensive

Morgan is teasing its next coachbuilds and they’re going to have fixed-roof coupes
4 Jun 2026
How to rediscover the love for cars? Get out there and buy an affordable classic
Subaru Impreza RB5
Opinion

How to rediscover the love for cars? Get out there and buy an affordable classic

It took our Eras tests to top up Richard Meaden’s love for cars. It also stoked the urge to buy an S1 Elise
5 Jun 2026
Mazda continues testing of carbon capture system – a different way to save internal combustion
Mazda carbon capture
News

Mazda continues testing of carbon capture system – a different way to save internal combustion

Mazda’s continued testing of its new emissions reduction system. It’s showing promising results
9 Jun 2026