Alright, buckle up, folks! Today, we're taking a spin around the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model. We're talking about the entry-level SUV that aimed to win over the hearts (and wallets) of drivers in 2018. The Tiguan has always been a solid contender in the compact SUV game, offering a blend of European flair, practical features, and a comfortable driving experience. But how did the base model stack up? Was it a good deal, or were you better off upgrading? Let's dive in and find out, covering everything from its engine specs to its interior comforts and, of course, what made it stand out (or maybe didn't!) in a crowded market. I'll break down the good, the bad, and the so-so, so you can decide if this is the right used car for you. Get ready for a comprehensive review that will help you make an informed decision.

Engine and Performance

When we talk about the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model, the first thing that comes to mind is what's under the hood, right? This is where the story begins. The base model, generally referred to as the S trim, came equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This engine was designed to provide a balance of power and fuel efficiency, a common goal for compact SUVs. The engine produced a respectable 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Now, these numbers might not sound mind-blowing, but the turbocharger provided a nice boost of low-end torque, which made the Tiguan feel peppy around town and during everyday driving. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which was pretty smooth and contributed to the overall pleasant driving experience.

One of the noteworthy aspects of the 2018 Tiguan was its available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which was an optional feature. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard on the base model, so if you were living in an area with harsh weather conditions or just wanted extra traction, the AWD system was a good investment. It intelligently distributed power to the wheels with the most grip, improving stability and handling. In terms of performance, the Tiguan wasn't designed to be a sports car. Its acceleration was adequate for daily driving needs, but it wasn't particularly quick. However, the Tiguan excelled in providing a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road well, and the steering felt responsive and precise. Fuel economy was also decent for its class. The FWD models typically achieved around 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the AWD models saw a slight decrease in fuel efficiency. Overall, the engine and performance of the 2018 Tiguan base model were designed to deliver a practical and enjoyable driving experience, suitable for everyday use and offering the option of enhanced traction with the available AWD system.

Interior and Features

Moving inside the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior. Volkswagen is known for its clean, straightforward approach to cabin design, and the Tiguan is no exception. The base model, or the S trim, may not have all the bells and whistles of higher trims, but it still offered a comfortable and practical space for both the driver and passengers. The seats were upholstered in cloth, which was common for the base models. While not as luxurious as leather, the cloth seats were comfortable and durable, and the front seats provided good support.

The Tiguan offered plenty of space for passengers. The front seats had ample headroom and legroom, and the rear seats were surprisingly spacious for a compact SUV. The Tiguan also benefited from a sliding second-row seat, which allowed you to adjust legroom for passengers or expand cargo space. Speaking of cargo space, the Tiguan had a decent amount of storage capacity. With the rear seats up, there was a good amount of space for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. The rear seats could also be folded down to create a larger cargo area.

In terms of features, the base model included a respectable list of standard equipment. It came with a touchscreen infotainment system, which controlled the audio, phone connectivity, and other vehicle settings. While the screen size and resolution weren't the largest or most advanced, it was functional and easy to use. The infotainment system also included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allowed you to integrate your smartphone seamlessly. Other standard features included a rearview camera, which made parking and maneuvering easier, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. While the base model might have missed out on some of the premium features found in higher trims, it provided a comfortable, well-equipped, and practical interior that met the needs of most drivers. The focus was on providing a functional and user-friendly experience, making the Tiguan a great choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile compact SUV.

Trim Levels and Options

Okay, so the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan wasn't just a one-size-fits-all deal. Nope, it came in a few different flavors. The base model, as we've discussed, was the S trim. It was the entry point, the most affordable option, and it came with the basics. But VW knew people like choices, so they offered a few other trims to spice things up. Stepping up from the S, you'd find the SE trim. This one usually added some extra goodies. Think upgraded infotainment systems, maybe a sunroof, and potentially some extra safety features. Then came the SEL trim, which was a step further up the ladder, with more premium features like leather seats, advanced driver-assistance systems, and maybe even a digital instrument cluster.

Finally, there was the SEL Premium trim, the top-of-the-line option. This one was loaded with everything, including things like a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and all the latest tech and safety features VW had to offer. Now, when it comes to options, VW also offered a few ways to customize your Tiguan, even on the base model. The biggest choice you'd make was whether to go with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). As we mentioned earlier, AWD was a great option if you lived in an area with harsh weather conditions. Other options might have included things like different wheel designs, paint colors, and maybe even some basic appearance packages. So, while the base model came with a good set of standard features, you could always add some extras to personalize your Tiguan.

But here's the kicker: with each step up in trim level, the price went up too. So, if you were on a budget, the S trim was a good starting point. You still got a solid car with a good engine, a comfortable interior, and plenty of practicality. The higher trims were obviously more luxurious, but the S trim offered a great value proposition for those who didn't need all the bells and whistles. The point is, there were options. VW gave you the ability to choose the Tiguan that best suited your needs and your wallet.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model packed some essential features to keep you and your passengers protected. Volkswagen has a good reputation for safety, and the Tiguan was no exception. Even the base model included a number of standard safety features designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

First off, the Tiguan came with a comprehensive airbag system, including front airbags, side airbags for the front seats, and side curtain airbags that covered both rows of seats. These airbags were designed to deploy in the event of a collision, providing cushioning and protection for occupants. Other standard safety features included electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock brakes (ABS). ESC helps to maintain vehicle stability in challenging driving conditions, such as slippery roads, by applying the brakes to individual wheels to help prevent skidding. ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control.

In addition to these standard features, the Tiguan also included a rearview camera, which made it easier to see what's behind you when parking or backing up. This feature was particularly helpful in tight spaces and could help to prevent accidents. While the base model didn't have all the advanced driver-assistance systems found in higher trims, it still provided a solid level of safety equipment. The Tiguan performed well in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), earning good ratings in most categories. While the higher trim levels offered more advanced safety features, the base model provided a good foundation of safety equipment to protect occupants in the event of a collision.

Driving Experience

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: what was it like to actually drive the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model? Well, it was a pretty pleasant experience, actually. The Tiguan was designed to be a comfortable and easy-to-drive SUV, and the base model delivered on that promise. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provided adequate power for everyday driving. It wasn't the quickest SUV on the road, but it had enough grunt to merge onto the highway, pass slower vehicles, and navigate city streets without feeling underpowered. The engine's turbocharger also provided a nice boost of torque at lower speeds, making the Tiguan feel responsive and peppy around town. The eight-speed automatic transmission was smooth and well-matched to the engine. Gear changes were seamless and unobtrusive, contributing to the overall relaxed driving experience. The steering was light and responsive, making the Tiguan easy to maneuver in parking lots and navigate through city traffic. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling overly soft or floaty. This made for a comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces.

The Tiguan also handled well for an SUV. It didn't have the sporty handling of a performance car, but it felt stable and composed in corners. The available all-wheel-drive system further enhanced the Tiguan's handling by providing extra grip and stability, especially in wet or snowy conditions. The interior of the Tiguan was also a comfortable place to spend time. The seats provided good support, and there was plenty of space for both front and rear passengers. The cabin was relatively quiet, with minimal road and wind noise. The controls were well-placed and easy to use, and the infotainment system was user-friendly. In short, the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model provided a comfortable, enjoyable, and easy-to-drive experience. It was well-suited for everyday commuting, family trips, and any other driving tasks you might throw its way. It wasn't the most exciting SUV on the market, but it was a solid and reliable choice that delivered on its promise of comfort and practicality.

Reliability and Maintenance

When you're considering a used car, reliability and maintenance costs are huge factors. So, what about the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model? Well, like any car, it's not perfect, and there are a few things to keep in mind. Generally, the Tiguan has a decent reputation for reliability, but it's not always at the top of the charts compared to some of its competitors. Some common issues that have been reported include problems with the infotainment system, electrical issues, and occasional mechanical glitches. However, these issues are not necessarily widespread, and many Tiguan owners have had a positive ownership experience. Regular maintenance is key to keeping any car running smoothly, and the Tiguan is no exception. Volkswagen recommends a regular maintenance schedule that includes things like oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Following this schedule can help to prevent problems and keep the car in good condition.

Maintenance costs for the Tiguan are generally in line with those of other compact SUVs. However, some Volkswagen parts can be more expensive than parts for other brands. It's a good idea to shop around for the best prices when it comes to repairs and maintenance. You can also save money by doing some of the maintenance tasks yourself, such as changing the oil or replacing the air filter. When buying a used Tiguan, it's essential to get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic. This inspection can identify any potential problems with the car, such as engine or transmission issues, before you buy it. It's also a good idea to check the car's maintenance history to see if it has been well-maintained. Overall, the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model is a reasonably reliable car, but it's essential to be aware of potential issues and to follow the recommended maintenance schedule. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your Tiguan stays on the road for years to come. Do your research, get an inspection, and you should be good to go.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's wrap things up with a quick rundown of the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model's pros and cons. This will help you get a clear picture of what you're getting yourself into.

Pros:

• Comfortable ride: The Tiguan's suspension is tuned for comfort, making for a smooth and pleasant driving experience.
• Spacious interior: The Tiguan offers plenty of space for both passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families.
• User-friendly infotainment system: The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Available all-wheel drive: The AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
• Stylish design: The Tiguan has a modern and attractive design that stands out from the crowd.

Cons:

• Base engine performance: The base engine's acceleration is adequate but not particularly quick.
• Some reports of reliability issues: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and electrical components.
• Maintenance costs: Volkswagen parts can be more expensive than parts for some other brands.
• Limited standard features: The base model lacks some of the premium features found in higher trim levels.

Conclusion

So, is the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model a good buy? Well, that depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a comfortable, practical, and stylish compact SUV with a decent amount of space and a user-friendly infotainment system, then the Tiguan S is definitely worth considering. It offers a good value proposition, especially if you're on a budget. However, if you prioritize performance, advanced features, or top-notch reliability, you might want to consider upgrading to a higher trim level or exploring other options in the compact SUV market. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive a Tiguan and see if it meets your needs. I hope this detailed review gives you a complete overview of the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan base model and will help you make a decision. Happy car hunting!