TEST Volkswagen Tiguan: reference update…

The Tiguan is about a bold move on the part of Volkswagen that has paid off. Launched in 2007 when SUVs were not common, it was a huge success and nearly 8 million units have rolled off the production lines since then. For the third generation of this successful model, the German brand wanted to ensure continuity while marking a break. This is especially visible in the model where the Tiguan takes the latest principles, especially electric, models from Volkswagen. Based on the flexible MQB Evo platform that can accommodate any type of engine (petrol, diesel, electric, etc.), it benefits from a full grille and reduced headlights that are combined on certain versions. This work benefits Cx which goes from 0.33 in the old model to 0.28.

Improve visual quality

At Volkswagen, the time has been to digitize the dashboard for several years and the Tiguan too. Like the current Passat and iD.7, some old mistakes have been corrected such as the fact that some frequently used functions (air conditioning or radio volume) are now illuminated, making it easier to use in the dark. The Tiguan has a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch or 15-inch central screen in the top trims. Since id.7, the perceived quality has improved compared to the brand’s previous models and that’s a good thing. Most visible materials are pleasant to the touch (even the faux leather seats!). However, we will still regret some hard plastics under the dashboard but the final presentation saves the furniture. Backlit model on black plastic, facing the passenger, it is good to look in the dark. As for seating capacity, the Tiguan doesn’t perform real miracles but the space on board is decent, the storage spaces are plentiful and the trunk volume is appreciated at 652 liters (or 490 liters for PHEVs).

Two PHEV versions

The Tiguan is only 3 cm long (4.53 m) and uses old-generation diesel engines. Now associated only with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission, they are composed of 1.5 TSI with 130 or 150 hp (the version in our test), as well as 2.0 TSI with 204 or 265 hp. In diesel, we find the “good old” 2.0 TDI developing 150 or 193 hp. The main news in this latest generation of Tiguan is the arrival of two plug-in versions that have a 1.5 engine and a 115 hp electric train that is in the gearbox. The 204 or 272 hp unit is connected to a 19.7 kWh battery.

Comfortable above all

Emphasis was clearly placed on the comfort of the Tiguan that takes care of its passengers. The suspension filters the roughness of the road better than the previous generation even if the damping remains firm, as usual for Volkswagen. It is very well reserved for the sound in this version of the 1.5 e-TSI 150 hp, it is pleasant during road trips where you have to calculate an average slightly higher than 7l/100 km, which is punished by the SUV Cx more inefficient than that of the sedan. Fortunately, this engine is equipped with a 48 V hybrid that helps save fuel.

Conclusion

Without bringing any revolution, the new Volkswagen Tiguan brings many developments that make it a pleasure to use and a very comfortable car. Its 1.5 e-TSI 150 hp engine fits like a glove and seems to offer the best price-performance ratio. The fact remains that with a base price of €44,250, the bill can quickly become steep, especially if we choose to finish the R line with the sports accent of our test car which starts at €49,800.

Volkswagen Tiguan 1.5 TSI: specifications

Engine: petrol, turbo 4-cylinder, 1,498 cm3, 150 hp and 250 Nm
Transmission: front wheels

Gearbox: dual-clutch automatic, 7 speed
L/l/H (mm) : 4.539/ 1.859 / 1.660
Empty weight (kg): 1,602
Cargo compartment volume (l): 652-1,650
0 to 100 km/h (seconds): 3.6
Top speed (km/h): 210 km/h

Combined consumption WLTP (l/100 km): 6.4
CO2 : 146 g/km
Price: 44,250 euros
Registration tax: Flanders: 358.17 euros; Wallonia and Brussels: 867 euros
Driving tax: Flanders: 230.57 euros; Wallonia and Brussels: 271.39 euros
Écomalus Wallonia: 0 euros

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