The Volkswagen Tiguan: Class, Comfort and Space

By Aida Sevilla-Mendoza January 07,2014

THE TIGUAN has class rather than spectacular looks. Photos by Aida Sevilla-Mendoza

The Tiguan, a compact crossover/SUV that is one of the six diesel Volkswagen vehicles being initially distributed in the Philippines by Ayala Automotive Holdings’ Automobile Central Enterprise Inc., has been getting some brickbats for remaining largely unchanged since its debut in  Europe in 2007. Critics point out that the Tiguan is dated since it has the same engine and underpinnings as the previous generation Golf, that it looks dull, lacks zest, is less fuel-efficient, offers less cargo space compared to other crossovers and is priced higher than its rivals.

 

However, the Tiguan has enough class to overcome its perceived deficiencies.  The exterior design of the Tiguan 2-liter TDI (turbo direct injection)  does look conservative and bland, not at all exciting or adventurous as SUVs should look, despite a new chrome-plated grille installed in 2012, the 17-inch alloy wheels and a few subtle exterior changes. But once you enter the upscale cabin, you will be impressed by its spaciousness, well-detailed ergonomics, high-quality materials, richly textured finishes, tight fitment, user-friendly buttons and simply framed big, round gauges. Nothing flamboyant or funky here, just a refined, upright and neat presentation of kit that enhances a premium yet comfortable motoring ambience.

 

INSIDE, a high level of Euro quality, comfort and refinement

CABIN FEATURES. Moreover, the driving position is technically perfect in an Alcantara fabric seat with Milan side bolster material.  Due to the tall seating position and relatively level beltline, outward visibility is excellent. Both the driver and front passenger are comfortably accommodated in Sport seats with height adjustment and lumbar support.  Silver metallic inserts for the dashboard and door panel trim, a Push Start System with keyless entry/exit, a height and longitudinally adjustable steering column, electronic meters (speed, tach, odo and trip), a leather-wrapped steering wheel with aluminum inserts and switches for the multicolor Multi-Function Display, cruise control and eight-speaker audio system, a dual zone aircon system, and lockable and illuminated glovebox with cooling function are some of the features in the front section of the cabin.

 

CARGO space is increased by the split/ fold rear seats and load-through hatch.

The Tiguan’s height (1703 millimeters) and tall roofline translate into lots of cabin space and very good headroom fore and aft while its wheelbase (2604 mm) allows good shoulder and legroom. The rear seats slide and recline while the 60/40 split seatbacks fold down to increase cargo space from 24 to 56 cubic feet. The rear seat also has an armrest and load-through hatch. There are drawers under the front seats, at the back of which are folding tables. The luggage compartment has a folding cover and a small, hidden storage bin under the floor.

 

PERFORMANCE. Driving enthusiasts will not be impressed with the Tiguan’s handling and performance since it is a tall wagon weighing 1,655 kilograms and is tuned for all-around utility, not hot hatch dynamics.  The 2-liter, 4-in-line common rail direct injection engine delivers 140 PS (138.08 horsepower) at 4200 revolutions per minute and 320 Newton-meters max torque at 1750 rpm through a 6-speed automatic transmission.  Its electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering is light and reasonably responsive, although sometimes lacking in feedback. The drivetrain is 4Motion, VW’s term for all-wheel-drive, that maintains a front-drive orientation until the electronic stability program senses slipping, then more torque is diverted to the rear tires to stabilize the Tiguan. But street tires and no low ratio transfer box limit the Tiguan’s off-road capability.

 

FOR REAR passengers, a folding table at the back of each front seat

The Tiguan’s ride quality is good enough with soft springs and 17-inch tires capable of absorbing road imperfections. The multilink rear suspension has been replaced with Adaptive Chassis Control with front and rear antiroll bars that could enhance the Tiguan’s cornering agility, although not much due to its height and weight.  The Tiguan is not quick, but its powerband is wide and ably covered by the six gears.

 

SAFETY. As expected of a German car, the Tiguan has an extended list of safety features including six airbags, Electronic Stabilization Program, ABS with Brake Assist, etc., electric parking brake with auto hold function, brake pad wear indicator, Park Distance Control with acoustic warning signal, Driver Alert System,  hill hold control and extended pedestrian protection measures.

 

Summing up, the 2013 Tiguan 2.0 TDI may not have the latest Volkswagen technology and its exterior styling will not turn heads, but it is a good, competent vehicle nevertheless, pleasant to drive with a spacious, well-kitted, comfy cabin. What’s more, you feel secure driving the Tiguan because of the sense of strength and quality that pervades its structure.  It is value for money despite its P2.109-million retail price.

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