In a field already so overcrowded it can make ones head spin just trying to keep up, what’s one more model to further challenge for consumer dollars in the crossover utility vehicle segment?
Volkswagen of America recently launched its all-new and highly anticipated compact sport utility vehicle Tiguan. Staying true to Volkswagen’s autobahn heritage, the Tiguan is truly the “GTI of compact sport utility vehicles.”
Tiguan brings new standards of design aesthetics, driving dynamics, safety features and a host of luxury and convenience attributes to an emerging category. Tiguan offers distinctive European design characteristics such as a sophisticated and eye-catching face, an available panoramic sunroof enabling almost 13 square feet of sunshine, and three trim levels allowing personalized configurations for a wider range of CUV shoppers.
Tiguan features the “fun to drive” handling and performance expected from a Volkswagen. A standard 2.0L TSI engine delivers turbocharged acceleration while still delivering respectable fuel efficiency. Its award-winning turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant delivers 200 horsepower and 207 lb. ft of torque. The combination of four valves per cylinder, direct fuel injection and turbocharging delivers the optimum balance of power and economy. European tuned suspension enables connected handling, while also providing a smooth and compliant ride. Both front- and 4Motion all-wheel-drive is available to suit any weather or road condition.
Tiguan also is unique in the category by offering a choice of either six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission options.
Like all Volkswagens, Tiguan includes the Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of 45 safety features. As standard equipment, Tiguan includes six airbags, with rear side airbags available as an option. Also like all 2009 model year Volkswagens, Tiguan features standard Electronic Stabilization Program for added safety.
Tiguan was designed with driver and passenger convenience in mind. Flexible seating, with reclining rear seats with six inches of fore and aft travel, allow for additional leg room or cargo space depending on individual needs. The front passenger seat also folds flat for carrying longer objects. The interior also includes various clips and storage bins ensuring safe space for all types of items that travel in the vehicle.
This vehicle also features an available state of the art navigation system, combining a sophisticated radio with a precise touch screen navigation system and easy to use map views through its 6.5-inch high resolution wide-screen display. The system includes a 30GB hard drive to store map data and audio files that can be brought into the device via the optical drive or SD card slot. The optical drive is capable of reading CD, DVD and DVD Audio formats. In conjunction with the media device interface, the system can interface with an iPod or USB stick. The system offers available Sirius Satellite Radio audio services and Sirius¨ Traffic service, which streams real-time traffic data into the navigation system.
Tiguan is available in three trim levels, S, SE and SEL. It is base priced at $23,200, reflecting the Volkswagen brand commitment to value. The SE and SEL trim levels is available with Volkswagen’s tenacious all-wheel drive 4Motion system.
Specific pricing for our Tiguan tester in SE trim and with 4Motion AWD begins at $28,875. With a few options including DVD-based navigation with rear backup camera and power panoramic sunroof our tester came to a final sticker of $33,165 with fuel economy figures of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.