Overview
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Limited represents a specific strategy by Volkswagen to maintain a presence in the compact SUV segment while transitioning to a new generation of the Tiguan. When the redesigned, larger Tiguan arrived for the 2018 model year, Volkswagen opted to keep the previous-generation platform in production under the “Limited” badge. This allowed the brand to offer a more affordable, entry-level alternative to the new, larger model, targeting buyers who preferred the more compact dimensions and established mechanical profile of the original Tiguan.
Built on the PQ46 platform, the Tiguan Limited retains the familiar aesthetic and driving dynamics that defined the first-generation model. It is powered by the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a traditional six-speed automatic transmission. By offering the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, Volkswagen ensured the Limited remained a viable option for consumers in regions requiring enhanced traction, despite its status as a carry-over model. The vehicle was primarily manufactured in Wolfsburg, Germany, maintaining the build quality associated with the brand’s European production facilities.
Market positioning for the Tiguan Limited focused on value-conscious shoppers who prioritized a proven track record over the latest technological advancements found in the newer Tiguan. While it lacked the third-row seating and expanded cargo capacity of its successor, the Limited provided a familiar, agile driving experience. Its legacy is that of a bridge model, serving as a reliable, utilitarian option during a period of significant product line expansion for Volkswagen.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan Limited 4motion |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Generation | 1st (Carry-over) |
| Trim | Limited |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Vehicle Segment | Compact SUV |
| Vehicle Class | Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | PQ46 |
| Assembly Plant | Wolfsburg, Germany |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Production Start | 2017 |
| Production End | 2018 |
| VIN Identifier | WVW |
| Base MSRP | $24,195 |
| Destination Charge | $900 |
| Total MSRP | $25,095 |
| 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 @ 5,100 rpm |
| Torque | 207 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (S6) |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 91 |
| EPA City MPG | 19 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 25 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 21 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 11.2 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 16.8 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 350 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $2,350 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 420 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 3 |
| Smog Rating | 5 |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | 2.8 s |
| 0-60 mph | 7.8 s |
| 0-100 mph | 21.5 s |
| Quarter Mile | 16.1 s |
| Top Speed | 125 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 128 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.81 g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 17.2 lb/hp |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 174.3 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 71.2 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | – |
| Height (in) | 65.6 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 102.6 |
| Front Track (in) | 61.8 |
| Rear Track (in) | 61.7 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 6.9 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,591 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4,850 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 2,200 |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 1,259 |
| 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 | 28.0° |
| Departure Angle | 25.0° |
| Breakover Angle | – |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | – |
| NHTSA Frontal Crash | – |
| NHTSA Side Crash | – |
| NHTSA Rollover | – |
| IIHS Award | – |
| 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 |
| 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 | 6 years / 72,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years / 72,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | – |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Salzgitter, Germany |
| Transmission Supplier | Aisin |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Open with EDL |
| 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 2018 Tiguan Limited is widely regarded as a reliable, if aging, choice for used car buyers who prioritize mechanical simplicity and a proven platform over modern digital interfaces. Because it utilizes the well-understood EA888 engine and a standard Aisin six-speed automatic, it avoids the complexities of newer dual-clutch systems. Prospective owners should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically verifying that the timing chain tensioner and water pump have been inspected or replaced, as these are known points of wear on this engine family. While it lacks the smartphone integration and advanced driver-assistance features standard in newer vehicles, its build quality and driving dynamics remain competitive for its price point, making it an appealing option for those seeking a straightforward, German-engineered crossover on a budget.
