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

Citroën C5 Aircross review – quirky, honest SUV offering Range Rover comfort on a budget
Citroën C5 Aircross
In-depth reviews

Citroën C5 Aircross review – quirky, honest SUV offering Range Rover comfort on a budget

When is a generic family crossover not the dullest thing on Earth? When it’s a comfy Citroën glazed in weirdness
9 Apr 2026
Looking for a used performance car icon? Try these – car pictures of the week
Used performance car icons
Features

Looking for a used performance car icon? Try these – car pictures of the week

Does price, a lack of personality and irritating mandated nannying in new cars put you off? Look to the stars of the past…
11 Apr 2026
Aston Martin V8 Vantage (2005 - 2017) – the 'baby' Aston to face the Porsche 911
evo Fast Fleet Aston Martin Vantage
Reviews

Aston Martin V8 Vantage (2005 - 2017) – the 'baby' Aston to face the Porsche 911

The so-called ‘baby Aston’ was always punchy but got better and better over the years. It's now a sorely tempting used prospect
7 Apr 2026