2021 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE

The 2021 Tiguan is Volkswagen's compact SUV, slotting between the smaller Taos and the three-row Atlas. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, offering a roomier back seat than most. The ride is smooth and composed, though the engine feels modest when you need quick acceleration. The cabin is roomy and well-built, with a large cargo area and an available third row for occasional extra passengers. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus automatic emergency braking. The 2.0T SE skips the SEL's premium audio and leather, but keeps the dual-zone climate and big touchscreen. Its 2.0L I4 makes 184 horsepower and pairs with a smooth eight-speed automatic, returning 25 mpg combined. This trim adds a third-row seat as standard on FWD models, a rare feature in the compact class.