22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L 4-cyl, it’s a figure most owners find acceptable. This generation Tiguan, before its significant 2018 redesign, caters to a specific buyer: one who needs a practical, compact SUV with a touch of European driving feel and doesn’t mind sacrificing ultimate fuel efficiency to get it. They value its nimble handling and relatively spacious interior over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline. This Tiguan isn’t about setting economy records; it’s about comfortably and confidently handling daily life with a bit of Germanic character.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Tiguan at 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provides adequate power for most situations. However, the older six-speed transmission doesn’t offer the fuel-saving benefits of more modern eight- or nine-speed units. City driving, with frequent stops and starts, tends to highlight this weakness. Highway performance is more predictable, but aggressive acceleration or sustained high speeds will noticeably impact fuel consumption. The turbocharger needs fuel to make boost, and requesting it often will drive down your miles per gallon.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L 4-cyl at $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Drivers who primarily use the vehicle for short city trips will likely see a higher annual fuel expenditure, while those with longer highway commutes may experience lower costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Many 2017 Tiguan owners report slightly lower MPG figures than the official ratings, often hovering around 18-21 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Factors like traffic congestion, climate control usage, and driving style play a significant role. Those with a lead foot will undoubtedly see lower numbers, while conscious efforts to drive smoothly and anticipate traffic can yield improvements. Also, all-wheel-drive models tend to have a slight fuel economy penalty compared to front-wheel-drive versions.

How it compares

Compared to its contemporaries, the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan’s fuel economy isn’t its strongest selling point. The Honda CR-V, for instance, achieves up to 28 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration, making it a significantly more efficient choice. Similarly, the Toyota RAV4 boasts a combined rating of around 25 MPG. Even the Mazda CX-5, known for its sporty driving dynamics, manages to achieve close to 26 MPG combined. This difference in fuel economy matters to buyers who prioritize minimizing running costs and are willing to sacrifice the Tiguan’s particular driving feel for better efficiency. These buyers can view all Volkswagen fuel economy data to compare the TIGUAN MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is key to minimizing fuel consumption in the 2017 Tiguan. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration, especially from a standstill. The 2.0L turbo engine is responsive, but excessive throttle input will quickly deplete fuel reserves.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels indicated on the doorjamb sticker. A simple tire pressure check can boost efficiency significantly.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the Tiguan adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, impacting fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and cargo area to reduce the burden on the engine. A lighter vehicle is always a more fuel-efficient vehicle.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long highway stretches can help optimize fuel efficiency. Use cruise control whenever possible to avoid fluctuations in speed and reduce unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Consider the grade of gasoline you’re using. While the 2017 Tiguan is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel, using a higher octane fuel might provide a slight increase in performance and efficiency for some drivers, but the cost increase may not be worth it. Consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine if premium fuel is beneficial for your specific driving conditions.