2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Active TSI S-A 1.5L Petrol · YH22 AAK

The 1.5 TSI petrol engine in DSG form typically returns around 35–40 mpg in real-world driving, with WLTP figures quoted higher. Annual fuel costs for a typical 8,000-mile year sit in the £1,400–£1,700 range at current UK pump prices. Insurance for a 2022 Tiguan Active falls into group 18–22 depending on driver profile, so expect premiums of £450–£700 annually for most drivers. Road tax is cheap thanks to Euro 6 AP compliance — around £170–£190 per year for the standard rate.

Routine maintenance is reasonable but not cheap at a main dealer, with annual services around £250–£350. Independent VW specialists typically charge £180–£240 for an oil and filter change. Cambelt replacement on the 1.5 TSI costs £500–£700 every three to four years and is a non-negotiable maintenance item. Tyres are a notable running cost — premium brands run £120–£180 each fitted. Overall, expect combined annual running costs in the £2,500–£3,000 range covering fuel, tax, insurance, servicing, and depreciation.

Start with a careful look at the tyres on all four corners. The 2025 MOT flagged both offside tyres as worn on the edge, which can indicate either misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or simply inner-edge wear from spirited cornering. Uneven wear across an axle is worth investigating with a geometry check costing around £60. The rear brake pad advisory suggests the pads may now be due for replacement — listen for any squeal on the test drive and check for scoring on the discs.

On the 1.5 TSI engine, listen for any ticking or rattling on cold start, which can point to timing chain stretch or valve issues if the cambelt interval has been missed. Check the oil level and condition — burnt oil indicates poor maintenance. On the automatic gearbox, ensure changes are smooth and that the 'creep' function works correctly in traffic. Inspect under the car for any oil drips from the sump, gearbox, or rear diff area, and check the exhaust for corrosion at the mounting points, which is a common Tiguan weak spot.

Finally, inspect the bodywork for stone chips on the bonnet and front bumper, which are common on white cars, and check the rear bumper scuff zone above the number plate. Ensure all electrical features work — climate control, heated seats, LED headlights, and any driver assistance systems. The DSG mechatronic unit can suffer from oil leaks and shuddering if not serviced correctly, so evidence of regular DSG oil changes is highly desirable.