The Volkswagen Tiguan consistently earns high marks in safety ratings. This article delves into the VW Tiguan’s crash test performance conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and explores its safety features, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective buyers.
IIHS Crash Test Ratings for the VW Tiguan
The IIHS rigorously tests vehicles in various crash scenarios, awarding ratings from “Good” (highest) to “Poor” (lowest). The VW Tiguan (2018-2024 models) excels in these tests, achieving top scores in several categories.
Small Overlap Front Test: Driver-Side and Passenger-Side
This challenging test simulates a frontal collision with a narrow object, such as a tree or utility pole. The Tiguan received a “Good” rating in both driver-side and passenger-side small overlap front tests. This indicates excellent structural integrity and effective restraint systems to protect occupants. Measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment and injury measures recorded on crash test dummies further confirm the Tiguan’s strong performance.
Action shot of a VW Tiguan during the driver-side small overlap front crash test.
Post-crash image demonstrating minimal intrusion into the driver’s survival space in the VW Tiguan.
Moderate Overlap Front Test
The moderate overlap front test, conducted by Volkswagen and assessed by IIHS, simulates a more common type of frontal collision. The Tiguan also earned a “Good” rating in this test, demonstrating its ability to protect occupants in a wider range of frontal impacts. Detailed measurements from this test are available in the original report.
Side Impact Test
The Tiguan achieved a “Good” rating in the side impact test, indicating strong protection for both the driver and rear passengers. Measurements of intrusion and injury measures show effective performance of the side curtain airbags and structural components. The test also evaluates head protection, where the Tiguan again scored “Good.”
Proper deployment of frontal and side curtain airbags in the VW Tiguan prevents head contact with injurious surfaces.
The driver’s footwell in the VW Tiguan maintained its integrity, reducing the risk of lower extremity injuries.
VW Tiguan Headlight Ratings
The IIHS evaluates headlight performance, and the Tiguan offers two variations with different ratings. The SEL R-Line trim with LED projector headlights (with high-beam assist) earns an “A” rating for providing good visibility. The S, SE, and SE R-Line trims, equipped with LED reflector headlights (without high-beam assist), also receive an “A” rating, showcasing good visibility in most scenarios.
Pedestrian Front Crash Prevention
The 2024 Tiguan features standard Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring. IIHS testing awarded this system a “Marginal” rating overall, demonstrating some effectiveness in preventing or mitigating pedestrian collisions. The system performed well in child and adult crossing scenarios but lacked effectiveness in parallel adult scenarios at night.
Child Seat Anchors (LATCH)
The Tiguan receives an “A” rating for its child seat anchor system (LATCH). The ease of use and accessibility of the anchors contribute to this high rating, simplifying the installation of child safety seats. The vehicle provides two rear seating positions with complete LATCH hardware and one additional position with a tether anchor only.
Conclusion: VW Tiguan Safety a Strong Point
The VW Tiguan’s consistent “Good” ratings in crash tests and its comprehensive suite of safety features contribute to its strong overall safety profile. While the pedestrian crash prevention system has room for improvement, the Tiguan’s performance in core crashworthiness tests, headlights, and child seat anchor evaluations makes it a safe choice for families and individuals alike. Prospective buyers seeking a safe and reliable SUV should consider the VW Tiguan.
