Representative photo — may show another model year
SUV
2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
Independent review & score by Carivo
Price Range
$31,971–$38,731
Fuel Economy26 MPG
Seating5 passengers
CategorySUV
Est. Annual Fuel$2,019/yr
The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.6/10 at Carivo, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs and an estimated $2,019/year fuel cost.
Scored by Carivo·Updated: September 8, 2026·How we score →
Key Specifications — 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
Engine
2.0L 4-Cylinder
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Regular
City / Hwy MPG
23 / 30 MPG
Combined MPG
26 MPG
Est. Annual Fuel Cost
$2,350
CO₂ Emissions
343 g/mi
Seating Capacity
5 passengers
Body Style
SUV
Base Price
$31,971–$38,731
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.5/10. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Volkswagen Tiguan's reliability at 8.5/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. On safety it earns 8.1/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.6/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 8.0/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $31,971–$38,731, 26 MPG, seating 5, the Volkswagen Tiguan sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.6/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan ranks #737 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 70% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $31,971 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 11%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Tiguan Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.5/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.6 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price
Common Questions — 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?
We rate the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan's reliability 8.5/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 70% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan cost?
The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan starts at $31,971 and ranges up to $38,731 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Tiguan years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Tiguan years we've rated are 2017 (7.2/10), 2016 (7.2/10), 2015 (7.2/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.8/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Volkswagen Tiguan
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More Volkswagen Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Volkswagen models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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