By Autoreviewman
Under the hood is a revised 2.0-litre turbocharged, direct-injection TSI four-cylinder engine, now mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. There is slightly less horsepower this time around (184 versus 200) but more torque with full 184 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and 221 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,600 to 4,300 rpm.
For Canada, the Tiguan arrives in three trim levels: the base Trendline (front-wheel drive), Comfortline and Highline which offer as standard “4Motion” all-wheel drive with economy, snow and off-road driving modes. Standard equipment across the lineup includes LED daytime running lights and taillights, Bluetooth phone connectivity, “App-Connect” smartphone integration (supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink), automatic headlights, air conditioning ( automatic climate control in Comfortline and Highline trim), 18-inch wheels on Highline models, and a six-speaker audio/infotainment system with colour touchscreen display. Options include a third row seat package ($750) Plus the An optional Driver’s Assistance Package ($1,470) adding adaptive cruise control, around-view camera, lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam control and remote start. Total price came to $41,395 plus freight ($1,795) and Air Conditioning Excise Tax ($100).
Interior wise, the Tiguan features a clean, minimalist, neat look will always satisfy the more discerning of drivers with high quality fabrics, plastics and fittings. A generous 38 cubic feet of cargo space is available behind the rear seats, if you forgo the minuscule third-row seats. Note the optional third row seat is, what Volkswagens calls “5 + 2,” meaning it’s really tiny, and best for small kids, but you can cram two adult in there for very short trips.
As for fuel economy, 4Motion-equipped models are rated at 11.3 L/100 kilometres in city driving, 8.8 L/100 km on the highway and 10.2 L/100 km combined to sum up, the Tiguan offers impressive ride and handling, clean styling and wonderfully neat and well featured interior. Highly recommended. A top buy in this sector.
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan: Priced from $28,925 Price as tested $41,395 plus freight PDI and AC Tax.