This is the second-‐generation Tiguan to hit the market. It’s been immensely popular, with only the Golf and Polo selling in higher numbers. It’s been eight years since that original Tiguan hit our shores, so a replacement has been on the cards for some time – and here it is.
It’s traded on being a straightforward compact SUV with decent styling and good levels of equipment.
The new car looks to build on that, offering cutting edge looks and even better levels of standard equipment. Marking the start of a new range of VW SUVs, the new Tiguan is instantly recognisable by its redesigned front end and prominent grille. It’s a face that’s sure to sit on a variety of Volkswagen cars to come.
There’s still some elements of the old car here. You’ve got a raised ride height that many drivers are looking for, while the chunky proportions give it a solid stance on the road.
Inside, there’s that trademark Volkswagen robustness. Everything feels solid and of a good quality, with all of the switches and dials carrying a good weight to them. You’ve got that all-‐ important commanding view of the area ahead, too – though the car never feels intimidating to drive.
There’s plenty of room in the front and the back, although it might be a bit of a squeeze if there’s three people in the rear. Headrests that raise and lower for backseat passengers is a neat touch, too.
Those seats also split 40/20/40, giving drivers a huge amount of flexibility when it comes to load lugging. With the seats up the boot has a capacity of 615 litres, rising to an impressive 1,655 litres with the seats folded down – larger than that found in rivals like the BMW X1 and Ford Kuga. It does mean that the Tiguan offers the best load-‐lugging ability around, which will no doubt win favour with larger families.
There’s a decent number of engines to keep most happy, ranging from a 1.4-‐litre petrol to a 2.0-‐litre diesel. We’d opt for the diesel, as it returns the best economy figures. You can choose between an automatic or manual gearbox, powering two or all four wheels. Most will crack 62mph in under 10 seconds, with only the base 1.4-‐litre petrol taking just over 10 seconds to hit 62.
The Tiguan is a car that rides nicely, and manages to toe the line between being comfortable and sporty well. In short, there’s not too much body roll, but it doesn’t crash in potholes either.
Although it comes with a hefty amount if interior equipment such as satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, it comes at a price – this car retails for just over £30,000, which may be slightly towards the top end of some families’ budgets.
Volkswagen is offering consumers a dependable, solid and well-‐finished small SUV with the Tiguan. It rides well, and is a car that’ll certainly turn heads wherever you go. The price, however, may be the sticking point for some.
