2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

For 2020, the Tiguan gains standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic detection. In addition, all models get the next-generation version of VW's Car-Net system and Wi-Fi capability. Finally, wireless charging is now available starting on the SE trim.

Also new for 2020 is an SE-version of the R-Line Black trim, which appears to be replacing the SEL R-Line Black trim level offered for 2019.

SEL models add upscale features like a heated steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rain-sensing wipers. The SEL Premium R-Line gains a new heating element at the base of the windshield to help free wipers stuck in snow and ice as well as the standard R-Line content, and 20-in wheels. See the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan models for sale near you

VW's upscale designs and the option of a third row (a rarity in this segment) are the Tiguan's two main selling points. The SE trim should be the starting point, but we like the extra equipment in the SEL. Buyers looking for comfort items tend to want things like a heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers and adaptive cruise control. The R-Line versions are merely superficial. Find a Volkswagen Tiguan for sale

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is available in S, SE, SE R-Line Black, SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trim levels. FWD versions come standard with 7-passenger seating, and the third row is optional on AWD models.

Where it's not standard, the 4Motion system costs an extra $1,300. It also includes hill-start assist, hill-descent control and selectable modes for snow, on-road and off-road conditions.

The Tiguan S ($25,865) comes standard with 17-in alloy wheels, roof rails, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, heated side mirrors, automatic climate control, manually adjustable front seats, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, cloth upholstery, Bluetooth, a USB port, the latest version of VW's Car-Net smartphone app suite that includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, a 6.5-in infotainment touchscreen, Wi-Fi capability, an AM/FM radio and a 6-speaker audio system. The active safety features previously offered in the Driver Assistance package are now standard on the Tiguan S for 2020, which means that every 2020 Tiguan comes with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring.

The SE ($28,015) adds keyless entry/ignition, heated washer nozzles, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat (plus 2-way power lumbar), two additional USB ports (one front, one rear), wireless charging, an 8-in infotainment touchscreen with enhanced functionality and voice controls, a satellite/HD radio, an alarm system and Car-Net Security and Service emergency communications (see Safety section). A panoramic sunroof is optional.

The SE R-Line Black ($31,215) is a new trim for 2020 that adds to the base SE model with 20-in black wheels, black-accented R-Line bumpers, R-Line badging, fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, and a black headliner.

The SEL ($33,165) includes the panoramic sunroof and adds 18-in wheels, a powered lift gate, fog lights, remote start, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, adaptive cruise control (operates in stop/go traffic), navigation, front & rear parking sensors, and for 2020, a heated steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rain-sensing wipers.

The SEL Premium R-Line ($39,715) adds AWD, LED headlights with automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, ambient cabin lighting, a hands-free lift gate, power-folding mirrors, a heated steering wheel, leather seating surfaces, driver's-side memory settings, a 40/20/40-split folding back seat, a cargo cover, an automatic parking system, an overhead-view camera system, lane-keeping assistance, active blind spot monitoring, reverse emergency braking and a 9-speaker Fender audio system. The R-Line part of the equation adds 20-in alloy wheels (not great for ride quality) along with the R-Line cosmetic package.