Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

The likeable, family-sized Tiguan is the German car maker’s best selling model globally. It’s a practical car with a premium interior that comes in a variety of trim levels with either two- or four-wheel drive. There’s something for everyone here from the entry level version to the mighty Tiguan R, for real performance. Most recently and inevitably, a petrol/electric hybrid has been added to the range.

The Exterior

The Tiguan exterior keeps faith with the brand image. The face can only be a Volkswagen and the design, from the powerful proportions of the dynamic front grille through to the pronounced shoulders, suggest the attributes of practicality and strength. This mid-size five-seat, five-door SUV looks solid and dependable. LED headlights are standard.

There’s a slightly larger version too; the Allspace. This offers an additional two seats and increased internal accommodation. Either way, there’s a choice of four trim levels and alloy wheels to suit. The entry level ‘Life’ version gets 18” wheels and roof rails. Add Keyless locking and starting on the higher specifications plus a sensor-controlled tailgate opening and closing function, while a panoramic sunroof is also fitted as standard.

The Interior

It’s a conventional dashboard in the Volkswagen Tiguan, cascading down from the central 8” touchscreen to the centre console. It’s easy for the driver to get settled thanks to plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment. It helps that the pedals are well-positioned and, for extra driving comfort, there’s a rest for the clutch foot. An added benefit is the lumbar support available on all but the entry level variant.

On more recent versions the touchscreen deals with most commands, eliminating some buttons, but there’s supplementary controls on the multi-function steering wheel. Parking sensors and cameras are model-dependent but all versions get satellite navigation. The screen may be smaller than might be expected these days, but it’s clear and fast with the latest infotainment technology, as well as digital dials and touch-sensitive controls.

The Tiguan is nice and roomy up front with plenty of storage spaces dotted about, including good-sized door pockets. It might be a bit of a squeeze to fit three adults in the back but it is designated a five-seater. Three wriggling children won’t be a problem though. A central rear armrest makes it a comfortable four seat vehicle.

The rear seats split, slide and fold augmenting the already huge luggage space at the back which comes with a range of optional accessories for convenience. The Allspace model increases this further still and the powerful ‘R’ version gets special sports seats.

Driving The Volkswagen Tiguan

There’s a wide choice of engines / power outputs. Petrol variants are served by either a 1.5 litre or a 2.0 litre engine with power from 130bhp to 245bhp. The ‘R’ model meanwhile pitches in with 320bhp; more than enough. It is the diesel engine that is most popular though. It’s a 2.0 litre turbo producing either 150 or 200bhp. Even the most basic will undercut ten seconds for the sprint to 62mph (100kph). All drive through a DSG automatic gearbox.

The ride quality is excellent over most surfaces with a little light off-roading possible for models fitted with four-wheel drive. There’s a little body roll on tight bends but overall the suspension does a good job of merging performance with comfort. In fact, the Tiguan handles more like a big, agile hatchback than an SUV, so it doesn’t feel too cumbersome on the road.

Is It Reliable?

Thanks to the modern trend of shared componentry across a brand, Volkswagen has a strong reputation for reliability. There is absolutely nothing to suggest that the latest Tiguan has any issues. With both new and used versions, this respected SUV offers a high-quality, premium interior and plenty of all-round appeal.

For customers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand or elsewhere it is a dependable purchase, all models coming with the latest essential equipment with the R-Line trim being especially well featured. Check out our listings for our latest stock. You’ll find detailed specifications on each vehicle to make selection easy.