The Tiguan has been a hit for VW but can the second generation build on that success? finds out
Acres Paul
There are five trim levels to choose from: S, SE, SE Nav, SEL and R-Line.
The base model is a little light on equipment but you do get air con, 17in alloys, touchscreen infotainment system, automatic lights and lane-keeping assistance.
4MOTION all-wheel drive and the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox are only available on SE models and above. Basic sped versions have to make do with front wheel drive and a six-speed manual.
Diesel options start with the 114bhp 1.6-litre but the 148bhp or 187bhp 2.0-litre power plants are likely to prove more popular. If those choices don’t whet your whistle there’s also a 237bhp 2.0-litre bi-turbo available.
If unleaded is your preference there’s a 1.4-litre TSI on offer with either 123 or 148bhp or a 2.0-litre turbo with 178bhp on tap.
Inside it’s as you were to a degree. The dash is as sensibly laid out as ever, with the emphasis on practicality rather than creativity. That’s never a bad thing and anyone who’s driven a Golf or Passat will revel in the familiarity.
The most obvious change is the inclusion of a 12.3in Active Info Display where the conventional analogue dials would normally be found. It’s not dissimilar to Audi’s Virtual Cockpit in its functionality and can be used to display navigation updates, vehicle settings and media information.
There’s also a head-up display available and surround-view cameras should you require greater assistance with your parking.
Three adults should be comfortably accommodated in the back – with two up front – without any complaints about head or leg room.
There’s plenty of convenient places – large doorbins, deep central storage and a large glovebox – to stash odds and ends and the boot will swallow 520 litres of luggage. You can slide the rear seats forward to liberate an additional 95 litres.
If that’s still not enough folding the 40/20/40 split folding rear seats flat increases capacity to 1,655 litres.
The Tiguan, in middle of the road spec at least, errs on the softer side. It’s quiet, very refined and relaxed. The compliant ride doesn’t sacrifice body control. The driving position is spot on thanks to huge flexibility in steering wheel and seating adjustment. You also get an excellent view of the road.
Power delivery is smooth and, at least in the few models I spent a brief time with, linear. The diesels aren’t shy in reminding you what they are at start-up but they quickly settle down and, on the move, are largely inaudible.
I only spent a short time with a few of the models in the Tiguan range but it’s clear that, while it builds on VW’s core strengths – refinement and build quality are as excellent as ever – it manages to move the game on significantly with a smart new look, flexible, spacious cabin, greater comfort and improved technology.