Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TSI 4Motion (180PS): Movin’ on up

By Ghaith Madadha - Mar 27,2017 - Last updated at Mar 27,2017

Photo courtesy of Volkswagen

Launched globally in 2016 and arriving in the Middle East earlier this year, the second generation Volkswagen Tiguan’s physical growth may be marginal, but in terms of content it is a leap forward. Based on a variant of Volkswagen’s new MQB architecture — shared with the Golf — the new Tiguan is a classier and more refined affair, with improved driving characteristics, space and technology. Formerly and firmly in the mainstream compact CUV segment, the Tiguan now also has a foot distinctly in the premium end of the segment.

Clean and crisp

Positioned to compete both against cars like the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai and to a certain extent against the likes of the BMW X1 and its own Audi Q3 cousin as possible competitors, the new MQB-based Tiguan is slightly shorter, wider and longer, with regular and more spacious long wheelbase options. A classier and more contiguous design with an emphasis of straight lines and a perception of with, the new Tiguan features a broader, moodier and more browed grille and headlight combo, along with bigger lower intakes for a more settled and road-hugging appearance.

Clean, crisp and fresh in design, the Tiguan features a distinctive ridged character line running along its flank towards its more dramatic almost boomerang-style rear lights. Meanwile a relatively level waistline and un-exaggerated rear pillar width lends it a handsomely mature appearance, good driving visibility and an airy ambiance. With optional 235/55R18 tyres and with a jutting tailgate spoiler, the Tiguan also has a distinctly sporting flavour about it. Though bigger in proportions, the new MQB platform’s increased use of lightweight aluminium components allows the Tiguan to shed 50kg, to help improve efficiency.

Effective and efficient

Offered with a broad range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engine globally, the Tiguan is, however, offered in 1.4-litre guise for front-wheel-drive version with 6-speed automated dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) and powered by a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 7-speed DSG gearbox with 4-Motion four-wheel-drive.

Offered in two states of tune, including 177BHP at 3940-6000rpm and 236lb/ft throughout 1500-3940rpm for entry-level SE and mid-range SEL 2-litre variants, as driven, the Tiguan’s familiar four-pot turbo engine allows for confidently brisk 5.2-second 0-80km/h and 7.7-second 0-100km/h. Capable of 208km/h, the Tiguan returns modest 7.4l/100km combined cycle fuel consumption.

With little turbo lag before its turbocharger spools up, the Tiguan launches off the mark confidently and benefits from a broad and flexible mid-range allowing for easy overtaking and pulling power. Underwritten by generous mid-range torque the Tiguan’s power builds to a wide and accessible top-end plateau. Refined and quiet in operation the Tiguan’s 2-litre is well-matched with its gearbox’s wide range of ratios for performance and efficiency. Swift, slick and best operating in a sequence, it features two clutches for odd and even gears, and lines up the next anticipated ratio for quick, almost seamless shifts.

Confident and comfortable

Built on Volkswagen’s modular MQB platform with MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear independent suspension, the Tiguan is very much a smooth and comfortable crossover designed for on-road use.

However, it does feature Hill Descent Control and Active Control driving modes, which leverage the stability and traction control systems, as well as alter throttle and gearbox responses to help maintain traction over loose surfaces. Additionally, the Tiguan’s four-wheel-drive system normally sends power to the front wheels, but distributes power rearwards to maintain on- or off-road traction when required.

Capable and confident, if not particularly exciting, the Tiguan’s driving characteristics are reassuring and composed, with terrific stability and refinement at speed and settled vertical responses on dips and crests.

Smooth, if slightly firm over sudden bumps, the driven Tiguan’s slightly taller tyre sidewalls allowed it to better absorb imperfections than versions with bigger glitzier alloy wheels. Tidy and manoeuvrable, the Tiguan tackles corners with confidence and agility, if not quite the same nimbleness of its smaller, sportier and lower Golf sister, and being taller and heavier, leans slightly more through corners.

Spacious accommodations

Classy yet unfussed, and with a refined yet logical and utilitarian layout inside, the Tiguan’s cabin uses good quality materials and assembly and features clear instrumentation. Refined from vibrations, noise and harshness, it also comes with light yet precise steering and reassuring brakes. Seating position is well-adjustable, supportive and comfortable. Set upright and high, along with an airy cabin, this allows for good road visibility for manoeuvring and parking. Spacious inside with good cabin access, the Tiguan’s adjustable rear seats can even comfortably accommodate large and tall passengers sat in a row.

Meanwhile cargo capacity is generous at 615-litres, and can increase to 1655-litres with the rear seats folded down, while standard and optional equipment levels are high.

Standard to SEL versions are ISOFIX child seat latches, front seat height adjustment aluminium look front scuff plates, remote central locking, rain sensor, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, cruise control, rear folding tables and speed-sensitive steering.

Optional equipment includes heads-up display, digital instrument cluster, parking assistance with rear or around view cameras, and knee and side airbags, among many other features.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 2-litre, turbocharged, transverse 4-cylinders

Bore x stroke: 82.5 x 92.8mm

Valve-train: 16-valve, DOHC, direct injection

Gearbox: 7-speed dual clutch automated, four-wheel-drive

Power, BHP (PS) [kW]: 177 (180) [132] @3940-6000rpm

Specific power: 89.2BHP/litre

Power-to-weight: 107.6BHP/tonne

Torque, lb/ft (Nm): 236 (320) @1500-3940rpm

Specific torque: 161.3Nm/litre

Torque-to-weight: 194.5Nm/tonne

0-80km/h: 5.2-seconds