How Much Should I Pay: 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan

Question From Mary: Hello. I was at a Volkswagen dealer today and was interested in the Tiguan. I want to know the best price I can get for the following models:
2009 Tiguan SE 4 Motion
White with Tan interior
had heated seats
10K miles
VIN WVGAV75N49W509xxx
2009 Tiguan S base trim
White with gray interior
12K miles
VIN WVGAV75N39W517xxx
Thanks so much.
Queen of the Road: Hi Mary. Welcome to AutoBragBlog! I’m assuming that these two Tiguans are being sold as Pre-Owned vehicles. If not, please let me know.
For a 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 2WD 4C 4X Motion SE with 10,000 miles, wholesale prices range from $20,500 (being in above average condition) to $19,800 (being in average condition) and $19,000 (being in below average condition). A fair range for a dealership sell it for +12%-14% more than wholesale, so their estimated retail prices could range from $21,000 to $22,600. A private seller will usually aim to sell it for 5%-10%.
For a 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 2WD 4C 4X Motion Base with 12,000 miles, wholesale prices range from $20,100 (being in above average condition) to $19,000 (being in average condition) and $17,800 (being in below average condition). A fair range for a dealership sell it for +12%-14% more than wholesale, so their estimated retail prices could range from $19,800 to $22,300. A private seller will usually aim to sell it for 5%-10%.
Check the carfax and do plenty of research on the history of the vehicle. Ask for their maintenance records. You can even bring a mechanic for a brief inspection. Here’s a good article to read before continuing: Car Buying Tips From An Insider. Let me know if you have any further car questions.
Good luck and keep us posted on how the purchase goes!


October 11th, 2009 at 10:55 am
Thanks for answering my question. After further research of these vehicles I am interested in, I found out that the White Tiguan SE is not a 4 Motion vehicle (VIN# WVGAV75N49W509386). Should the wholesale price be lower then? I am planning to offer $19,000 with about $19,500 as my ceiling. According to Carfax, the in service date was October 2008. So technically, this car is about a year old. Is $19,000 a good/fair offer?
Thanks.