Volkswagen Tiguan

The second-generation Tiguan is one of the largest models in the small-SUV segment. That growth allows for an optional third-row seat (standard on FWD versions) and an enormous second-row seat. Though the 184-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine feels responsive in daily driving, acceleration is rather slow: It takes more than 10 seconds to reach 60 mph from a stop. Fuel economy of 25 mpg on regular gas is good for the class. The transmission is mostly smooth. Handling is capable and secure, and the ride is comfortable. The cabin is among the quietest in the segment, with just a bit of engine noise when revved. A variety of advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross traffic warning, are standard on all but the base S trim.

The second-generation Tiguan is one of the largest models in the small-SUV segment. That growth allows for an optional third-row seat (standard on FWD versions) and an enormous second-row seat. While the 184-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine feels responsive in daily driving, acceleration is rather slow: It takes more than 10 seconds to reach 60 mph from a stop. Fuel economy of 25 mpg on regular gas is good for the class. The transmission is mostly smooth. Handling is capable and secure, and the ride is comfortable. The cabin is among the quietest in the segment, with just a bit of engine noise when revved. A variety of advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic warning are available.

The Tiguan did well in our tests. Based upon the VW Golf and Passat, we like its quiet cabin, roomy rear seat, and excellent fit and finish. Handling is agile and secure, and the ride is comfortable. The 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers smooth and punchy performance and yielded 20 mpg overall in our tests. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available. For 2012, Tiguan's mild freshening improved fuel economy. Model year 2015 brought some equipment shuffling, including a standard rear camera.