Why does this car matter right now?

Because the compact SUV class has become a war zone. Toyota’s RAV4 is the de facto sales king. Honda’s CR-V is everyone’s fallback. And Mazda’s CX-5 keeps winning design awards like it’s a weekend hobby. Into this noisy crowd steps the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan, looking less like the conservative choice and more like a calculated counterpunch.

VW didn’t just redesign its best-seller. It rewrote the playbook. The new Tiguan is sharper in every sense styling, handling, tech, and safety. And for the first time in a decade, it actually wants your attention.

How does it compare to rivals?
Let’s start with the looks. The outgoing Tiguan wore the kind of face that got lost in a car park. The 2025 model? It walks in with shorter overhangs, a squared-off stance, and a front end that finally speaks fluent Teutonic. It’s confident, not flashy. Think less fast fashion, more architectural minimalism with a smirk.

Meanwhile, the RAV4 still plays rugged dress-up, the CR-V is stuck in “urban dad” mode, and the CX-5 though still handsome—is beginning to look like it’s been wearing the same outfit since 2019.

Step inside, and Volkswagen flips the script again. You get American walnut trim, stitched surfaces, and a mammoth 15-inch touchscreen that makes the CR-V’s nine-inch display look like a pager. Mazda’s interior still punches above its weight, but the new Tiguan is inching into Audi-lite territory, minus the showroom snobbery.

Then there’s the tech. VW’s new MIB4 infotainment system feels modern for once responsive, intuitive, and bundled with ambient lighting and sound presets called “Atmospheres.” Yes, you can match the car’s mood to yours. It’s cheeky, but it works. Toyota and Honda still give you wireless CarPlay, but navigating their menus feels like filling out tax forms with oven mitts.

Under the hood? A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder pushing 201 horsepower. That’s more grunt than the base RAV4 or CR-V. And it weighs less than before down by 170 pounds. Mazda’s turbo engine still rules the torque charts, but it also gulps fuel like it’s free. The Tiguan splits the difference nicely, offering enough punch for daily use with decent fuel economy.

Who is this for and who should skip it?
This Tiguan isn’t for badge snobs or mileage absolutists. It’s for buyers who want style, tech, and safety in equal measure without stretching for a luxury badge or putting up with aging infotainment.

It’s also ideal for the growing crowd of Americans who want a compact SUV that doesn’t look like a fleet special. With 10 airbags and VW’s full IQ.DRIVE suite standard on all trims including lane centering and adaptive cruise it also doubles down on safety. Toyota and Honda offer similar systems, but only Volkswagen gives it to every buyer, no haggling required.

Now, if you’re shopping for a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, look elsewhere. Unlike the RAV4 Hybrid or CR-V Hybrid, the U.S. Tiguan hasn’t yet joined the electrified crowd. VW’s saving that for another day—and likely another press cycle.

What’s the long-term significance?
The 2025 Tiguan marks a cultural shift inside Volkswagen. This isn’t just a facelift or a trim reshuffle. It’s a signal that VW wants to play offense in America’s most competitive segment.

The Tiguan used to be the SUV you leased because the numbers looked good. Now, it’s a crossover you configure with genuine enthusiasm. You’ll still take it to soccer practice. But on the drive home, you might actually enjoy yourself.

In terms of raw specs:

• 201 horsepower
• 10 airbags
• 15-inch touchscreen
• Standard IQ.DRIVE driver assistance

Compare that with the RAV4 (203 hp, 8 airbags, 10.5-inch screen), CR-V (190 hp, 9-inch screen), and CX-5 (187 hp base, up to 250 hp with turbo). On paper and in practice, the Tiguan pulls ahead in interior tech and standard safety. The hybrid-minded still get better MPG from Toyota or Honda, but those cars don’t feel nearly as polished behind the wheel.

Final verdict?
The new Tiguan doesn’t try to reinvent the compact SUV. It simply does almost everything better. There’s still room for improvement especially in electrified options but VW’s message is clear: the Tiguan is no longer the safe bet. It’s the savvy one.

The post 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan: A Smarter, Sharper SUV That Finally​ Deserves Attention appeared first on ROI TV.

Many individuals approach retirement savings without a clear, written plan, which is crucial for long-term financial success. A written plan serves as a roadmap, helping you maintain your desired standard of living, prepare for unforeseen expenses, and reach your financial goals more efficiently. Surprisingly, a significant number of Americans lack such a plan, underscoring the need for proactive financial planning.

Determining Your Retirement Savings Goal

Understanding how much you need to save for retirement is vital. Begin by estimating your annual retirement expenses and subtracting any fixed income sources, such as Social Security. The remaining amount is your income shortfall, which your savings need to cover. Financial planners often recommend a withdrawal rate of around 4% or lower for individuals in their 60s or 70s to ensure the longevity of their retirement funds. Younger individuals should aim for a lower withdrawal rate, around 3% or less, to account for higher inflation and longer time horizons.

Budgeting for Retirement

Implementing a structured budgeting approach can aid in effective financial management. One such method is the 50/30/20 rule:

• 50% for Needs: Allocate half of your net income to essential expenses like housing, utilities, and groceries.
• 30% for Wants: Dedicate 30% to discretionary spending, such as dining out, entertainment, and hobbies.
• 20% for Savings or Debt Repayment: Commit 20% to saving for retirement or paying down debt.

Adhering to this rule can help ensure a balanced approach to spending and saving, promoting financial stability in retirement.

Creating a Written Financial Plan

Despite its importance, many people do not have a written financial plan, which significantly increases the likelihood of failing to meet retirement goals. A comprehensive plan should include:

• Retirement Age: Define when you plan to retire.
• Spending Needs: Estimate your annual expenses during retirement.
• Investment Strategy: Outline how your assets will be allocated and managed.
• Income Sources: Identify all fixed income sources, such as Social Security or pensions.
• Retirement Activities: Consider how you plan to spend your time, which can impact your budget.

Overcoming common barriers like procrastination, perceived lack of funds, and complexity is essential for successful retirement planning.

Risk Management and Expected Returns

Balancing risk and return is a cornerstone of investment strategy. Generally, higher risk can lead to higher returns but also requires a longer time horizon to manage market volatility. Younger investors may afford to take on more risk, while those closer to or in retirement should focus on preserving capital through a balanced approach. Understanding your risk tolerance and required rate of return is crucial for developing a solid investment strategy.

Emergency Savings and Debt Management

Maintaining an emergency fund of at least 3-6 months of expenses is recommended, with a year’s worth being advisable for those with unstable income. Additionally, increasing retirement contributions to 20% of income can enhance financial security. Regularly rebalancing your investment portfolio and managing high-interest debt are essential steps toward financial stability.

Social Security and Retirement Income

Social Security is designed to replace about 40% of an average worker’s salary; however, this percentage is lower for high-wage earners. It’s advisable to check your estimated benefits on the Social Security Administration’s website to understand your potential income and plan accordingly. Relying solely on Social Security is not recommended; having a diversified income strategy is essential.

Tax Implications and Investment Strategies

Capital gains taxes must be paid on stock earnings, even if reinvested in other stocks within the same year. Utilizing tax-loss harvesting can help offset gains and reduce your tax burden. This strategy involves selling investments that have declined in value to offset capital gains from other investments. It’s important to note that tax-loss harvesting applies to taxable investment accounts and not to tax-deferred retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s. Ongoing management of your investment portfolio is crucial for long-term tax efficiency and financial health.

Key Takeaways and Action Items

• Develop a Budget: Create a detailed budget to manage your expenses and savings effectively.
• Create a Written Financial Plan: Outline your retirement goals and the strategies to achieve them.
• Construct a Balanced Investment Portfolio: Align your investments with your risk tolerance and expected returns.
• Manage Debt and Build Emergency Savings: Ensure all financial aspects are in sync for a successful retirement.

Utilizing resources like the Retirement Readiness Guide can provide detailed steps and strategies to thrive in retirement.

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.

The post Thriving in Retirement: Essential Strategies for Financial Success appeared first on ROI TV.

Social Security plays a pivotal role in the financial stability of many retirees. Approximately 40% of men and 42% of women depend on Social Security for over half of their retirement income. Given its significance, understanding how to maximize these benefits is crucial for a secure retirement.

Factors Affecting Social Security Benefits

Several elements influence the amount of Social Security benefits you may receive:

• Work History: Benefits are calculated based on your 35 highest-earning years. Years with no or low earnings can reduce your average, leading to lower benefits.
• Age at Claiming: You can begin claiming benefits as early as age 62; however, doing so results in a permanent reduction. Conversely, delaying benefits until age 70 can increase your monthly benefit by up to 32%. blog.ssa.gov
• Marital Status: Married individuals may be eligible for spousal or survivor benefits, which can impact the optimal timing and strategy for claiming.
• Life Expectancy: Considering your health and family history can help determine whether it’s advantageous to claim early or delay benefits.

Claiming Strategies for Social Security

Determining the right time to claim Social Security benefits requires careful consideration:

• Early Claiming (Age 62): While you can start receiving benefits at 62, this results in a permanent reduction of up to 30% compared to your full retirement age benefit. blog.ssa.gov
• Delayed Claiming (Up to Age 70): Delaying benefits increases your monthly payment due to delayed retirement credits. For each year you delay past your full retirement age, your benefit increases by approximately 8%. blog.ssa.gov
• Individual Considerations: Factors such as health status, financial needs, and other retirement income sources should guide your decision on when to claim benefits.

Spousal and Survivor Benefits

Understanding benefits available to spouses and survivors is essential:

• Spousal Benefits: A spouse can receive up to 50% of the higher-earning spouse’s benefit if claimed at full retirement age. Claiming earlier will reduce this benefit. hartfordfunds.com
• Survivor Benefits: Surviving spouses are eligible for 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit if they claim at full retirement age. These benefits can be claimed as early as age 60, though at a reduced rate.

Break-Even Analysis for Social Security

A break-even analysis helps determine the age at which the total benefits received from delaying surpass those from early claiming. Typically, the break-even point is around age 80. If you expect to live beyond this age, delaying benefits may result in higher lifetime income.

Taxation of Social Security Benefits

Social Security benefits may be subject to federal income taxes:

• Provisional Income: This includes your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest, and half of your Social Security benefits.
• Tax Thresholds:
  • Individual Filers: If your provisional income is between $25,000 and $34,000, up to 50% of your benefits may be taxable. Above $34,000, up to 85% may be taxable.
  • Joint Filers: For combined incomes between $32,000 and $44,000, up to 50% of benefits may be taxable. Above $44,000, up to 85% may be taxable. www-origin.ssa.gov

Bridging the Gap Before Claiming Social Security

If you choose to delay Social Security to maximize benefits, consider these strategies to cover expenses in the interim:

• Utilize Retirement Savings: Withdraw from 401(k)s, IRAs, or other savings accounts to meet living expenses.
• Part-Time Employment: Continuing to work can provide income and may increase your Social Security benefits if additional high-earning years replace lower-earning ones in your benefit calculation.

Free Social Security Analysis Offer

To assist in making informed decisions, we offer a complimentary Social Security analysis tailored to your unique circumstances. Visit our website to take advantage of this service and receive personalized recommendations on the optimal claiming strategy for you. www.purefinancial.com

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.

The post Max Out Your Social Security appeared first on ROI TV.