The Tiguan is a compact crossover SUV from Volkswagen that lives in the shadow of its larger sibling, the full-size Touareg. But life in the shadows isn’t necessarily dull, as the agile Tiguan demonstrates.
Perhaps the greatest harmony in the Tiguan is found in the lithe and lively characteristics of its powertrain, including its six-speed automatic transmission, and its Volkswagen-engineered 4Motion all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Crossovers powered by small 4-cylinder engines aren’t typically emblematic of swift, satisfying performance but that’s not the case here.
The Tiguan’s 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged 4-banger spins out 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft. of torque. Those are healthy numbers for an engine of its size. Turbocharging gives this power plant a broad, flat torque curve, which translates into plenty of power without revving maniacally. In fact, full torque is produced from just 1,700 r.p.m. through to 5,000.
The six-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission does a reliable job of spinning the optimal gear without partaking in gear-selection indecision.
This is the only transmission paired with 4Motion AWD. Selecting the front-wheel-drive (FWD) version of the Tiguan carries with it the availability of a six-speed manual gearbox for those preferring old-school shifting over the benefit of all-wheel-drive.
Penny-pinching fuel-economy is an expected benefit of owning a compact crossover powered by a 4-cylinder engine. Crossovers and SUVs aren’t heralded for their miserly way with liquid gold, and for good reason given their bulky, less aerodynamic designs. Anything that extends the distance they’ll travel on a tank is greatly welcomed, but this proposition can also crush the hope of sporty driving dynamics. Not so with the Tiguan.
Its turbocharged mill puts a little spice back into driving, but it does so at the expense of good fuel-economy. With AWD, the Tiguan is rated at 10.3L/100km city and 7.9L/100km highway. According to my tester’s on-board computer, my driving, which was primarily city-based, failed to meet those targets by a significant margin.
No doubt an unknown portion of the over-consumption is attributable to the combination of turbocharging and the enthusiasm of my right foot — a delightful pairing I might add — yet I was somewhat disappointed with the rate of burn. That said, life is a balancing act and so is driving efficiently.
Though it’s relatively short in length, in fact 137 mm (5.5 in.) shorter than the new RAV4, the Tiguan is roomy, and exceptionally practical. Its basic bread-box shape and flat load floor accommodate objects of odd shapes and sizes, especially when the rear seat is dropped. The vehicle’s overall shape, clean design, and large windows make it easy to manoeuvre and park. My tester was equipped with a navigation touch screen that doubled as a backup camera when reversing, further easing the anxiety of executing a perfect parallel park.
A couple of quick notes upon climbing into the Tiguan. Firstly, its seats are firm but supportive in all the right places. Secondly, there’s an austere quality about the cabin that’s typically German in nature. Materials in use convey an ambience of quality, and assembly standards are high. These two characteristics are a good starting place for a long, enjoyable journey, which is what follows when the Tiguan is taken on the road.
The punchy TSI engine exhibits refined manners, though it’s a little more audible under acceleration than others I’ve tested in this segment. The polish presents itself when full power is sought. This engine loves to rev through to its red-line while never becoming frenetic or coarse. Power delivery is linear, progressive, and smooth.
This isn’t always the case with 4-bangers masquerading as powerful.
Once underway, there’s a sense of composure to the Tiguan that’s more car-like than normally found behind the wheel of a crossover. The vehicle tracks with precision, and handles with confidence. Worthy of particular mention is the Tiguan’s braking ability, which is responsive and perfectly calibrated.
These driving dynamics come together to deliver a crossover driving experience that’s more inspiring than many of its competitors.
It’s fair to say though, that the Tiguan’s underpinnings may be slightly firmer than that of competitors whose products don’t match the Tiguan’s inherent agility. So “yes,” there are smoother riding crossovers out there but they’re not likely to be more structurally sound than the Tiguan. It’s a tight, solid rig that hasn’t denounced its German heritage pandering to doughy North American desires.
Overview: Compact reasonably-priced turbocharged crossover featuring European driving dynamics
Pros: Smooth turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and VW’s capable 4Motion AWD
Cons: Less fuel-efficient than posted ratings, no manual gearbox with AWD
What would I change? Add the 6-speed manual gearbox across the board
SPECS
Type of vehicle: Compact crossover SUV
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
Power: 200 horsepower & 207 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic / 6-speed manual (FWD only)
Brakes: 4-wheel antilock disc
Priced from: Trendline $24,990 / Highline $37,440
Freight & PDI: $1,610
Fuel-economy rating: 10.3 city, 7.9 hwy.
Notable options: Technology Package ($2,300)
