Volkswagen Tiguan review - MPG, CO2 and running costs

​If you want to keep running costs to a minimum, but don't want to splash out for the plug-in hybrid, we'd opt for the 148bhp 2.0 TDI with manual gearbox. This returns up to 54.3mpg on the WLTP combined cycle, and emits 136g/km of CO2. These figures change to 50.4mpg and 146g/km when paired with the seven-speed DSG auto 'box.

As you'd probably expect, if you opt for four-wheel-drive you'll see a significant impact on running costs. The 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI 4Motion variant manages 44.8mpg on the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions from 165g/km.

Unsurprisingly, the petrol versions don’t fare so well, due to the heavy weight of the car combined with the reduction in pulling power. The 1.5 TSI is found right across the wider Volkswagen range, emitting from 145g/km of CO2 and returning around 44.1mpg in 148bhp guise. However, all petrol cars get cylinder deactivation that shuts off two cylinders and helps to save fuel.

The eHybrid provides a claimed average economy of 201.8mpg, with an electric-only range of up to 31 miles. As well as big fuel savings, eHybrids used as company cars will attract low Benefit-in-Kind rates thanks to a 32g/km CO2 figure.

The Tiguan R is not nearly such an attractive proposition from a business user’s perspective, due to its 29.7mpg fuel economy and 215g/km CO2 emissions.

Insurance groups 

Insurance premiums for the Tiguan shouldn't be too expensive, with petrol cars ranging from groups 15 to 20. Diesel-powered versions start in group 19, for the six-speed manual 2.0-litre TDI in Life trim, while the 197bhp oil-burner in R-Line spec is in group 21. Predictably, the Tiguan R sits at the top of the insurance tree, in group 36.

Depreciation

The facelifted Tiguan model should enjoy healthy residual values. Our expert data suggests that it will hold onto an average of 48-56 per cent after a typical ownership period of three years and 36,000 miles. 1.5-litre TSI petrol models in entry-level Life trim are the strongest performers.