A Guide to the Trims of the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan

If you’re on the hunt for a new Volkswagen, there’s no better Seattle VW Tiguan dealer than Bud Clary Auburn Volkswagen, and stopping by to see the new Tiguan should be at the top of your to-do list. After all, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the most exciting new releases of the year. Perhaps our favorite aspects of the 2023 Tiguan—if we had to pick just one—would be the unique trims available to this model.

While these options are undoubtedly intriguing, the abundance of choice can sometimes be overwhelming. In this respect, we’ve compiled a guide that will review each trim of the 2023 VW Tiguan—what each excels at, and which is best for which kinds of drivers—so you can head to Bud Clary Auburn Volkswagen with your perfect fit already in mind.

A Brief Overview of the 2023 Tiguan

Before we get into all the great features of the individual trims of the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan, let’s do a quick rundown of the model itself. The Tiguan is a luxurious SUV designed for bold, innovative drivers who want a vehicle that matches their personality. Even when stuck in traffic on I-5, you’ll feel like a superstar inside the 2023 Tiguan. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special.

A midsized and sporty SUV, the 2023 VW Tiguan has a starting price of around $27,000[a] and offers plenty of bonuses to get the best bang for your buck. What jumps out to us first is the attractive design of the 2023 Tiguan—it’s refined, stylish, and even exquisite at times, without sacrificing any strength or power for this added nicety. Inside, the cabin is cozy yet spacious, loaded with technology and creature comforts to always make your experience a satisfying one. That goes double for your passengers, especially if you’re waiting out a ferry ride or are on a family trip to the Woodland Park Zoo.

The most imperative of the Tiguan’s tech routes through the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit system, which makes its driver feel like a futuristic pilot with all these features at their fingertips. Simulacra of gauges and crucial driver information are presented cleanly and digitally—easy to access and even easier to use. Surround yourself with the available premium audio system by Fender and there’s a lot to love about piloting the 2023 Tiguan.

Available IQ.Drive is perhaps the most unique and interesting feature of an already unique and interesting vehicle; this is a comprehensive driver assistance technology package that automates and streamlines much of a driver’s most infamous annoyances. From lane assist to adaptive cruise control, emergency traffic alerts, intelligent blind spot monitoring, and more, the IQ.Drive sensor suite keeps drivers safe and does much of the heavy lifting for you, so you can enjoy the rest of your Volkswagen experience to the fullest.

We shan’t delve too deeply into the inner workings of the 2023 Tiguan, as this may change from trim to trim, so—without further adieu—let’s get into the different flavors of the Volkswagen Tiguan…

The Tiguan S and SE

The standard Tiguan, the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan S, is the foundation for all the excellent features we’ve already raved about. As the base model of the 2023 Tiguan, all other trims use it as a launching point for variation. This is the most affordable trim of the 2023 Tiguan, and it might just have everything you’re looking for already, but if you’re looking for an upgrade, the Tiguan SE is the next step up.

The 2023 Tiguan SE is an improved version of the base model S, offering mostly convenience and tech upgrades to this SUV. It has AppConnect compatibility for all your smartphone needs, as well as a wireless charging dock for all of us cord-cutters. What stands out to us the most about the Tiguan SE, though, is its quality of life improvements. Going hands-free is increasingly common, and the 2023 Tiguan SE comes with a hands-free rear liftgate and a remote start option, so you can get your whole trip ready to get started before you even get behind the wheel. Accessing the trunk without lifting a finger can be a real lifesaver when you’ve got an armful of groceries, luggage, or rowdy kids!

Overall, the Tiguan S is a fantastic starting point, and the SE is a solid and reasonably priced enhancement. But for those who want the absolute best out of their 2023 VW Tiguan, there are no better options than those of the R-Line.

The Tiguan R-Line

The 2023 Tiguan R-Line trims are the ultimate versions of the Volkswagen Tiguan—the absolute pinnacles of their designs. If you want to maximize the potential of your SUV, look no further.

The 2023 Tiguan SE R-Line Black immediately draws attention with the bold swagger of its black grille and front bumper—trademarks that stand out in the crowd to give your Tiguan a distinct and enviable look. The 19-inch alloy wheels also contribute to the R-Line Black’s intimidating yet attractive appeal. Inside, that style persists, with customizable lighting to set the mood; this atmosphere complements the power moonroof perfectly on nighttime drives. You’ll be set for stunning skyward views—so long as those pesky rain clouds stay away, that is! For drivers who want the most visually sensational SUV, the 2023 Tiguan SE R-Line Black is your best choice.

The peak of Tiguan design comes in the 2023 Tiguan SEL R-Line, combining the already admirable features of the previous versions while further expanding the Tiguan into legendary territory. This is the sportiest of the Tiguan trims, and it is quite possibly the most attractive. It proudly features the aforementioned Fender audio system as its standard speakers, making it the best Tiguan for audiophiles. Even the seats of the SEL R-Line are extraordinary, as they’re draped in fine leather and ventilated to facilitate breathability on the backs of their occupants.

The aforementioned Digital Cockpit Pro is here in a larger 10.25-inch layout. In addition to the hands-free features of lower trims, the SEL R-Line also has folding and heated side mirrors, which are game changers when winter comes around and the mornings leave frost on our glassy surfaces. In summary, there isn’t much the SEL R-Line can’t do or doesn’t offer, and it truly feels like the most Volkswagen could possibly get out of their 2023 Tiguan.

Which Trim Is Best for You?

It’s no surprise that Volkswagen has put out a sharply-made SUV, but the cohesion and profusion of features on each trim are in themselves noteworthy. As much as we’d like to, it would be nearly impossible for us to host each variant of the 2023 Tiguan in our personal garage. So then, if we could only pick one, which is best?

Ultimately, it will come down to what kind of driver you are and what you value most in your SUV. The basic Tiguan S model is a good pick for those of us who want a quality SUV at a great price. But we think the Tiguan SE is similar enough in price to justify the added benefits. Of the S-Line trims, it’s our personal favorite.

As for the R-Line, if you do decide to splurge, we recommend going all out. The R-Line Black is a sumptuous trim in its own right, but it doesn’t cater as lavishly as the SEL R-Line. If you’re already going for luxury, why not go all the way? For those looking for the ultimate SUV, we recommend the 2023 Tiguan SEL R-Line.

[a]Starting MSRP of $26,950 for a 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan S with 8-speed automatic transmission. Price excludes destination, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.