Personally, I always thought the Tiguan was a bit of a useless tit. When Pylon said it was like a raised Golf, that's exactly what it is. And I have no idea what benefits raising a Golf would give you to be honest. I think the Jetta Sportwagon is much more useful vehicle.
• You have way more cargo volume with both seats up and down (cause hey it's an actual wagon and not just a raised hatch to give you the appearance of volume),
• It gets way better fuel economy, especially when you get the Diesel (but even if you don't). Plus the Tiguan recommends Premium fuel, where the Jetta doesnt.
• It's cheaper by about 4-5 grand. For the base price of a Tiguan you can get the Diesel mid-level Jetta..and have 36mpg to the Tiguans 21.
• Like all cars, it has lower center of gravity, so it has way better driving dynamics. Engineers can do marvelous things these days, but they can't cheat gravity....and just think about who tends to be clumsier, tall guys or short guys.
• People make fun of CUV's as soccer mom cars because that's exactly what they are. Useless fads. Not that you should give a crap, but a station wagon will get you respect from car guys.
• The only advantage I see is the optional AWD (but one that's no match for your current Outback).
Both of these cars have average reliability at best. While VW's do have solid construction, they still rank near the bottom of every reliability list. VW sales guys might start jumping on the door to prove their toughness, but that's not what you have to worry about....it's the electrical gremlins. Just like with most german cars, be ok with having a flexible work schedule.
Also personally, I think VW has taken a step back in interior materials across the board. Our 2000 Golf felt much nicer than the last '12 Golf I looked at. In the end though it will probably still feel more premium than a Honda.
Anyway, that's my two cents. Also keep in mind I have a general hate on for any CUV and love for all things wagon.
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