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The 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan ranks 5 out of 24 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 20 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Tiguan, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

A blend of the words "tiger" and "iguana," the interestingly named Tiguan is a sporty and appealing entry within its class. Its German driving dynamics and upscale feel set it apart from other SUVs, but its steep base price, low fuel economy and below-average cargo space detract from its appeal.

With a starting price around $23,000, the Tiguan is one of the most expensive SUVs in its class. Plus, options and higher trims can add more than $10,000 onto that price. But test drivers say the Tiguan is well worth it because it’s one of the sportiest, most fun-to-drive small SUVs on the market. Typical of VW, it also comes with an especially high-quality interior for this segment.

"Tiguan's prices are higher than most compact sport-utility competitors," writes Consumer Guide. "Sporty-for-the-class road manners, a comfortable interior, and three years of no-cost scheduled maintenance offset the difference enough to make it worth a look."

But there’s another drawback besides the Tiguan’s steep price. In a class where many SUVs net 30 miles per gallon or more on the highway, the Tiguan’s fuel economy just can’t keep up. Its base rating, 19/26 city/highway, is one of the lowest in the class. The Tiguan also requires premium fuel, which is rare for this class and is sure to make those trips to the fuel pump even more painful.

f you’re willing to go without the Tiguan’s sporty driving dynamics, it’s easy to find a more affordable and fuel-efficient compact SUV. The Hyundai Tucson starts at about $4,200 less than the Tiguan and boasts one of the best fuel economy ratings in the class (22/30 mpg city/highway). It also comes with a class-leading powertrain warranty, but it doesn’t really improve on the Tiguan’s below-average cargo space.

If, however, a fun driving experience is really important to you, consider the Mazda CX-7. Though it’s technically not a compact SUV, it’s on the smaller side of the midsize class and still costs about $1,500 less than the Tiguan. On top of that, it has a higher 20/28 fuel economy rating and is one of the sportiest SUVs in its class. Since it’s a midsize, the CX-7 also has slightly more cargo space then the VW.