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By
EWAN KENNEDY
13 October 2011
Volkswagen
has introduced a lower cost model to its Tiguan SUV range.
Following the lead of other marques, VW has just released a
two-wheel drive version that joins the existing four-wheel drive
models. The 2WD is lighter, so has a smaller engine than the 4WD
models. The result is a significant drop in entry level pricing of
$5500, with the Tiguan 118TSI having a recommended retail of just
$28,490.
At this stage the only a six-speed manual gearbox is offered, a
DSG automatic transmission will be introduced at a date yet to be
specified in 2012 and will add $2500 to the price. On-road costs
have to be added to these prices.
The
engine in the Tiguan 118TSI is the 1.4-litre Twincharger unit that
has been familiar to us in the VW Golf for some time now. In case
you hadn’t guessed, it produces 118 kilowatts of power with
torque of 240 Newton metres. We road tested the new 118TSI on a
demanding hilly route in the north of NSW and came to the
conclusion that while most drivers will be satisfied with the
performance, those who like a bit of added punch should consider
one of the higher powered units.
The other engines in the Tiguan range are similar to before, but
have been reworked to give them a little more power, while using
less fuel. This sees the previous 125 kW 2.0-litre turbo-petrol
engine being uprated to 132 kW, so renamed the Tiguan 132TSI. The
semi sporty Tiguan, that features a higher-pressure turbo-petrol
now puts out 155 kW, (was 147 kW) and is now badged as 155TSI.
There’s also a Tiguan 103TDI for those who prefer the extra
economy and grunt provided by a turbo-diesel, its torque peak is a
handy 320 Nm.
As
well as the underbonnet changes, the latest VW Tiguan has had a
facelift. This sees the compact SUV falling into line with the
other late model Volkswagens, using a horizontal theme that is now
seen on everything from the small VW Polo to the big Amarok
pickup. As well as changes to the front, the new Tiguan also has
revised taillights that also have a horizontal look.
The overall effect of the external styling changes is reasonably
significant, but inside the Tiguan is virtually unchanged, apart
from the use of different seat fabrics. This makes sense in these
financially troubled times as it logical to spend money on
improving things under the bonnet than in trying to follow fashion
trends.
Interestingly, the upcoming Volkswagen Up, which is smaller again
than the VW Polo and is about to be released in Europe, doesn’t
follow the frontal shape of all its big brothers. Instead taking a
cheeky styling direction. We have been invited to the
international launch of the VW Up and will report in detail after
our test drives.
But
back to the Tiguan. As well as the new 1.4-litre Twincharger
engine we also road tested the 155TSI and 132TSI petrol units.
Both have good performance and can almost be driven in a sporting
manner in the way they corner. They have the usual solid feel that
has appealed to VW owners in Australia for many decades and
there’s the sensation that the Tiguan will put up with plenty of
hard work over extended periods.
Noise and vibration reduction is very good on smooth to moderate
roads, but there’s more tyre/road noise intrusion than we had
anticipated on our notorious Aussie coarse-chip surfaces.
Dirt and gravel roads were handled with ease and should you try a
bit too hard there is the usual range of electronic traction aids
to get you out of trouble. Don’t forget though, that the laws of
physics will always win in the end if you do something really
stupid. Hopefully that won’t happen, but if it does there are
six airbags to help to protect the Tiguan’s occupants. The
vehicle has been tested by European NCAP, and received the maximum
of five stars.
The new VW Tiguan range tops out at $42,990 for the 155TSI, which
comes only with a seven-speed DSG auto.
VW is following the lead set by Audi, BMW and others in offering
many options packages. You can chose from such items as a full
panoramic glass sunroof, leather trim, automatic lights and
wipers, satellite navigation and much more. Contact your dealer
for all the details as there’s not room to provide all the
information here.
Volkswagen Tiguan has been a success in Australia right from its
introduction in mid 2008. These latest changes, in particular the
new low-cost version, will surely see significant increases in
sales.
The complete Volkswagen Tiguan range, with prices (excluding
government and dealer charges) is:
118TSI 2WD five-door wagon: $28,490 (manual)
132TSI AWD five-door wagon: $33,490 (manual), $35,990 (DSG
automatic)
103 TDI AWD five-door wagon: $35,990 (manual), $38,490 (DSG
automatic)
155 TSI AWD five-door wagon: $42,990 (DSG automatic)
Note: These prices do not
include dealer or government charges. Contact any Volkswagen
dealership for driveaway prices.
© Copyright
Marque Publishing Company
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