Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a Volkswagen Tiguan 2019 in the UK? Awesome choice! This compact SUV has been a popular pick for families and anyone needing a bit of extra space and versatility. But before you jump in, let's dive deep into a comprehensive review, specifically tailored for the UK market. We'll cover everything from performance and handling on UK roads, to interior comfort, tech features, and of course, those all-important running costs. Get ready for some serious insights to help you make the best decision!

What Makes the 2019 Tiguan a Solid Choice?

Okay, so what’s the buzz around the 2019 Tiguan? Well, for starters, it's a Volkswagen! That name carries a certain weight, right? Known for their reliability, build quality, and, let's face it, understated style, VW usually delivers. The Tiguan slots nicely into the compact SUV segment, competing with the likes of the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga, and SEAT Ateca. What sets it apart? Many reviewers and owners highlight its refined driving experience, a comfortable and spacious interior, and a good level of standard equipment. But let’s get granular. Under the hood, you'll typically find a range of engine options, including petrol and diesel variants. For UK drivers, the diesel models have often been a popular choice due to their fuel efficiency – crucial for those longer commutes or family road trips. Inside, the 2019 Tiguan offers a well-laid-out cabin with plenty of room for passengers and luggage. The rear seats can slide and recline, adding to the versatility, and the boot space is pretty generous, making it ideal for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways. Technology-wise, even the base models come with a decent array of features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and safety aids like automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels boast even more goodies, including navigation, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the real magic of the Tiguan lies in its overall package – it's a well-rounded SUV that ticks a lot of boxes for a lot of people. It's not the flashiest or the most exciting car on the road, but it's a dependable, practical, and comfortable choice that's well-suited to the demands of UK driving. But is it perfect? Of course not. We’ll get into some potential drawbacks later on. Keep reading!

Performance and Handling on UK Roads

Let's talk about how the 2019 Tiguan actually feels on the road, especially on those sometimes-challenging UK roads. The driving experience is generally described as refined and comfortable. The suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps and potholes, providing a smooth ride, even on less-than-perfect surfaces. The steering is light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver around town, and the car feels stable and planted at higher speeds on the motorway. Engine choices play a big role here. The petrol engines offer a decent amount of power for everyday driving, but the diesel variants, particularly the 2.0-liter TDI, provide more torque, which translates to better acceleration and responsiveness, especially when the car is fully loaded with passengers and luggage. This is a significant advantage for UK drivers who frequently encounter stop-start traffic or need to overtake on country roads. The optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is another feature worth considering, especially if you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. It provides added traction and stability on slippery surfaces, giving you extra confidence behind the wheel. Now, it’s essential to remember that the Tiguan isn't a sports car. It's not designed for thrilling cornering or blistering acceleration. Instead, it prioritizes comfort and ease of driving. The focus is on providing a relaxed and enjoyable experience, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long-distance journey. However, some reviewers have noted that the Tiguan's handling can feel a bit numb and uninspiring compared to some of its rivals. The steering lacks feedback, and the car doesn't feel as agile or engaging in the corners. But for most drivers, this won't be a major concern. The Tiguan is perfectly capable and competent on the road, and it provides a comfortable and safe driving experience. Just don't expect it to set your pulse racing! The key takeaway? The Tiguan delivers a composed and comfortable ride that's well-suited to the demands of UK roads. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising down the motorway, it's a reliable and predictable performer.

Interior Comfort, Tech, and Practicality

Okay, let’s hop inside the 2019 Tiguan and see what it’s like to live with on a daily basis. The interior is a definite highlight. VW has a reputation for building well-made, durable cabins, and the Tiguan is no exception. The materials feel solid and high-quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The design is clean and uncluttered, with everything logically laid out and easy to use. Space is another big plus. The Tiguan offers plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, even taller adults will find it comfortable in the back. The rear seats can also slide and recline, allowing you to adjust the legroom and boot space to suit your needs. Speaking of boot space, the Tiguan offers a generous amount of cargo capacity, making it ideal for families or anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear. The boot is also well-shaped and easy to access, with a low loading lip. Tech-wise, even the base models come with a decent array of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a digital instrument cluster. Higher trim levels add even more goodies, such as navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. However, some reviewers have noted that the infotainment system can be a bit slow and clunky to use compared to some of its rivals. The touchscreen can be unresponsive at times, and the menus can be confusing to navigate. But overall, the Tiguan's interior is a comfortable, practical, and well-equipped space that's well-suited to the needs of modern drivers. It's a place where you'll be happy to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long-distance journey. The key features that stand out are the spaciousness, the quality of the materials, and the practicality of the layout. It’s a solid interior that adds to the overall appeal of the vehicle. You will find the practical elements very useful in your daily life.

Running Costs: MPG, Insurance, and More

Now for the part that everyone dreads – the running costs! Owning a car isn't cheap, and it's important to factor in all the expenses before you make a purchase. Let’s break down the key running costs associated with the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan in the UK. MPG (Miles Per Gallon): Fuel efficiency is a big concern for many drivers, especially with rising petrol prices. The MPG you can expect from the Tiguan will depend on the engine you choose and your driving style. The diesel models generally offer better fuel economy than the petrol variants. Expect to see figures in the range of 45-55 MPG for the diesel and 35-45 MPG for the petrol, depending on the specific engine and driving conditions. Insurance: Insurance costs will vary depending on your age, driving experience, and location. The Tiguan typically falls into insurance groups 14-22, which is relatively moderate compared to some other SUVs. Road Tax (VED): Vehicle Excise Duty, or road tax, is an annual fee that you have to pay to keep your car on the road. The amount you pay will depend on the car's emissions. The Tiguan's road tax will vary depending on the engine and trim level. Servicing and Maintenance: Regular servicing and maintenance are essential to keep your car running smoothly and reliably. Volkswagen has a network of dealerships across the UK that can provide servicing and repairs. Expect to pay around £200-£300 for a basic service, and more for major services. Tyres: Tyres are another significant expense. The cost of tyres will depend on the size and brand you choose. Expect to pay around £100-£200 per tyre. Depreciation: Depreciation is the loss of value of your car over time. Cars typically depreciate the most in their first few years. The Tiguan holds its value relatively well, but you can still expect to lose a significant amount of money over the first few years of ownership. So, what’s the bottom line? The Tiguan's running costs are generally reasonable for a compact SUV. The diesel models offer good fuel economy, and the insurance costs are relatively moderate. However, servicing and maintenance can be expensive, and depreciation is a factor to consider. It's important to do your research and compare prices before you make a purchase. Consider getting quotes from different insurance companies and garages to get an idea of the potential running costs. And don't forget to factor in the cost of road tax and depreciation. By carefully considering all the running costs, you can make an informed decision about whether the Tiguan is the right car for you. Ultimately, running costs are a crucial factor in your decision-making process. Understanding these costs upfront helps you plan your budget effectively and avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.

Potential Drawbacks and Things to Consider

Okay, we've talked about all the good stuff, but let's be real – no car is perfect. So, what are some potential drawbacks and things to consider before buying a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan? Infotainment System: As mentioned earlier, some reviewers have criticized the Tiguan's infotainment system for being slow and clunky to use. The touchscreen can be unresponsive at times, and the menus can be confusing to navigate. If you're a tech-savvy person who relies heavily on your car's infotainment system, this might be a deal-breaker. Handling: While the Tiguan is comfortable and composed on the road, it's not the most exciting car to drive. The steering lacks feedback, and the car doesn't feel as agile or engaging in the corners as some of its rivals. If you're looking for a sporty and fun-to-drive SUV, you might want to consider other options. Price: The Tiguan can be a bit more expensive than some of its rivals, especially when you start adding options. If you're on a tight budget, you might want to shop around and compare prices. Reliability: While Volkswagen has a reputation for building reliable cars, some owners have reported issues with the Tiguan, such as electrical problems and engine issues. It's important to do your research and read reviews from other owners before you make a purchase. Interior Design: The interior design, while functional and well-built, can be a bit bland and uninspiring for some people. It lacks the flair and excitement of some of its rivals. This is subjective, of course, but it's worth considering if you're looking for a car with a stylish and modern interior. So, what's the verdict? The Tiguan is a great car overall, but it's not without its flaws. It's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before you make a decision. Consider your priorities and what you're looking for in a car. If you value comfort, practicality, and a refined driving experience, the Tiguan is definitely worth considering. But if you're looking for a sporty and fun-to-drive SUV with a cutting-edge infotainment system, you might want to explore other options. Remember to do your research, read reviews, and test drive the car before you make a purchase.

Final Verdict: Is the 2019 Tiguan a Good Buy in the UK?

Alright, guys, let's wrap things up! After a thorough examination, is the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan a good buy in the UK? The answer, as with most things in life, is... it depends! For many UK drivers, the 2019 Tiguan represents a solid and sensible choice. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious and practical interior, and a good level of standard equipment. It's well-suited to families, commuters, and anyone who needs a versatile and reliable SUV. The availability of both petrol and diesel engines, along with the option of 4Motion all-wheel drive, adds to its appeal. However, the Tiguan isn't without its drawbacks. The infotainment system can be frustrating to use, the handling isn't the most exciting, and the price can be a bit steep compared to some of its rivals. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2019 Tiguan depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value comfort, practicality, and a refined driving experience above all else, the Tiguan is definitely worth considering. But if you're looking for a sporty and fun-to-drive SUV with a cutting-edge infotainment system, you might want to explore other options. Before you make a final decision, be sure to:

• Test Drive: Get behind the wheel and experience the car for yourself.
• Read Reviews: See what other owners and experts have to say.
• Compare Prices: Shop around to find the best deal.
• Consider Your Needs: Think about what you're looking for in a car.

By doing your research and carefully considering your options, you can make an informed decision and choose the right car for you. Happy driving!