Overview

The 2013-2014 Volkswagen Tiguan represents the first generation of the brand’s compact crossover, built on the versatile PQ46 platform shared with the Passat and Golf of that era. Introduced to the North American market to compete against established rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Tiguan distinguished itself through a focus on driving dynamics and interior refinement. Its design language mirrored the conservative, clean aesthetic prevalent across the Volkswagen lineup during the early 2010s, emphasizing a premium feel that was often absent in the segment at the time.

Under the hood, the vehicle utilized the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant provided a balance of efficiency and torque, positioning the Tiguan as a more engaging driver’s vehicle compared to its naturally aspirated competitors. The inclusion of a manual transmission option for the base trim level was a rarity in the small SUV class, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritized mechanical engagement. Manufacturing for the North American market primarily took place at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg, Germany.

Throughout its production cycle, the Tiguan earned a reputation for solid build quality and high-grade cabin materials. While it offered less cargo space than some of its Japanese counterparts, it compensated with a sophisticated chassis and a composed ride quality. The model remains a notable entry in the compact crossover segment for its attempt to bridge the gap between mainstream utility and European driving characteristics.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volkswagen
Model Tiguan
Model Year 2013-2014
Generation 1st Generation
Trim S
Body Style 4-door SUV
Vehicle Segment Compact Crossover
Vehicle Class Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Market USA
Platform PQ46
Assembly Plant Wolfsburg, Germany
Country of Origin Germany
Production Start 2007
Production End 2017
VIN Identifier WVW
Base MSRP $23,300
Destination Charge $865
Total MSRP $24,165
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family EA888
Engine Name 2.0L TSI
Engine Code CCTA/CBFA
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke 82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio 9.6:1
Aspiration Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Direct Injection
Valve Train DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 4.9 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower 200 hp @ 5100 rpm
Torque 207 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm
Redline 6500 rpm
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission Manual 6-spd
Final Drive Ratio 3.65
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91
EPA City MPG 18
EPA Highway MPG 26
EPA Combined MPG 21
Fuel Economy (L/100 km) 11.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 16.9
Estimated Driving Range 355 miles
Annual Fuel Cost $2,400
CO₂ Emissions 420 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score 4
Smog Rating 5
Performance
0-30 mph 2.8 s
0-60 mph 7.5 s
0-100 mph 21.2 s
Quarter Mile 15.8 s
Top Speed 125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 128 ft
Lateral Acceleration 0.81g
Power-to-Weight Ratio 16.8 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 174.3
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 71.2
Width (With Mirrors) (in) 81.0
Height (in) 65.6
Wheelbase (in) 102.5
Front Track (in) 61.8
Rear Track (in) 61.7
Ground Clearance (in) 6.9
Curb Weight (lbs) 3362
GVWR (lbs) 4630
Towing Capacity (lbs) 2200
Payload Capacity (lbs) 1268
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 96.1
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 23.8
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) 56.1
Turning Circle 39.4 ft
Approach Angle 28 degrees
Departure Angle 25 degrees
Breakover Angle 20 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating 4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash 4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash 5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover 4 Stars
IIHS Award Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front
Moderate Overlap Front Good
Side Impact Good
Headlights Rating
Front Crash Prevention
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display 5.0-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster Analog with Multi-function display
Apple CarPlay No
Android Auto No
Navigation System Optional
Audio System 8-speaker
Speaker Count 8
Wireless Charging No
Wi-Fi Hotspot No
OTA Updates No
Digital Key No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty 5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty 12 years / 120,000 miles
Roadside Assistance 3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance 3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier Volkswagen
Gear Ratios 1st: 3.77, 2nd: 2.09, 3rd: 1.32, 4th: 0.98, 5th: 0.76, 6th: 0.65
Differential Type Open
Cooling System Capacity 8.5 qts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2013-2014 Tiguan is recognized in the used market for its premium interior feel and engaging driving dynamics, though it requires diligent maintenance to remain reliable. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically regarding the timing chain tensioner, which is a known point of failure in early EA888 engines. Carbon buildup on intake valves is another common issue due to the direct-injection system, often requiring walnut blasting service. While the Tiguan offers a more refined experience than many mass-market competitors, its fuel economy is lower than average for the class, and it mandates premium fuel. Today, it serves as an attractive option for buyers seeking a European-engineered crossover at a lower price point, provided they are prepared for the higher cost of ownership associated with German engineering.

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