Finding a used car that runs well and stays under budget isn’t easy. Fortunately, U.S. News takes the guesswork out of used car shopping with detailed lists ranking vehicles by assigned overall scores. The rankings combine automotive experts’ opinions, consumer surveys, and scores for performance, safety, reliability, and ownership costs. So if you’re looking for a used Volkswagen Tiguan for less than $15,000, you’re in luck. Three models make the U.S. News “Best Used Compact SUVs Under $15K for 2023” list. Here are the top three used Volkswagen Tiguan model years in the roundup.

2014 Volkswagen Tiguan

Among 140 vehicles on the U.S. News list, the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan secured the ninth position with an overall score of 8.7 out of 10. Its original MSRP was $25,330, but almost a decade later, the average price paid for a used 2014 Tiguan ranges between $10,001 and $14,464.

Agile handling, a premium interior, and good reliability ratings helped the 2014 model earn a spot in the top 10. U.S. News reviewers cite a “powerful base engine” and “good acceleration” from the turbocharged 2.0-liter generating 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque.

One notable downside of the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is its relatively low fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

2015 Volkswagen Tiguan

With an overall 8.3, the 2015 Volkswagen Tiguan tied with several other SUVs for the number-35 spot on the U.S. News list. Ranging from $13,657 to $18,594, this model year features an upscale cabin with a decent number of standard tech options.

Sitting in the middle of a competitive class, this used compact SUV offers the same strong engine as the 2014 model, with quick acceleration and agile handling. Paired with an automatic six-speed transmission, the four-door crossover has front-wheel drive and a strut front and multi-link rear suspension for reliable performance.

2011 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan also ranked 35th on the list, with an overall score of 8.3 out of 10. While the 2011 Tiguan had an original MSRP of $24,820, the used compact SUV now has an average selling price between $6,875 and $8,146 based on mileage, vehicle condition, and other factors.

The 2011 VW Tiguan is more upscale than other small SUVs from that model year. It provides comfortable seats and soft-touch high-quality materials throughout the luxurious cabin. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine generates 200 hp and 207 lb-ft torque but doesn’t impress with a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway. Where the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan does impress is in its sporty handling and excellent safety ratings.

Several other Tiguan model years rank farther down the lengthy, seven-page U.S. News list, with 2010, 2016, 2009, and 2013 offering good value for used car shoppers searching for a solid compact SUV at an affordable price. But as with every used car, you risk taking over someone else’s problems. Despite kicking the tires, you won’t know what you’re dealing with until you get behind the wheel.

After looking at used vehicles, you might decide a new Tiguan is the way to go. While the list price for the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is considerably higher than $15,000 at $30,580, it offers plenty of enticing bells and whistles. Car and Driver reviewers give this model a 9 out of 10, saying the Tiguan is the only compact crossover that “offers a distinctly European flavor, with crisp handling and elegantly tailored styling. More than anything, though, we like the Tiguan because it’s sporty and fun to drive.”