The Volkswagen Tiguan is offered in several different trims ranging from a base S up through SE, SE R-Line Black, SEL and top-of-the-line SEL Premium. All trims other than the SEL Premium come standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive as an option, while the SEL Premium comes only in all-wheel drive form.

No matter which model buyers choose, the Tiguan is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, making 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. On all Tiguan models, an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting mode is standard. Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive features a mechanical center differential and electronic differential locks, allowing it to transfer power to each wheel independently. The system also includes a variety of driver-selectable modes, including On-Road, Snow, Off-Road and Off-Road Custom. Within On-Road mode are four additional settings: Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual.

The Tiguan is a crossover wagon, and it allows plenty of passenger space plus a mechanical layout that allows it to ride and handle like a compact sedan. A strut-type front suspension and 4-link rear setup keep the wheels in contact with the road, while an electromechanical power steering system provides precise control. The Tiguan includes 4-wheel vented disc brakes, with vented discs in front as well as brake assist and an electronic parking brake.

The base Tiguan S includes a third-row seat, a 6.5-inch touch screen infotainment system, Bluetooth and USB smartphone connectivity, a rearview camera, LED daytime-running-lights and a 40/20/40 split, sliding, reclining, fold-flat 2nd-row seat. The SE model adds standard 8-inch touchscreen and V-TEX leatherette seats. SEL Premium models include VW Digital Cockpit, leather seating with heated front seats, a power reclining driver seat, heated washer nozzles, and adaptive front LED headlights.

A panoramic sunroof is optional. As for VW's Car-Net infotainment system, stepping up to the subscription-based Security & Service group adds capabilities like remote vehicle lock/unlock, automatic crash notification, and the parent-friendly Family Guardian with features including remote speed and boundary alerts.