New Volkswagen Tiguan: A Smoother, Smarter, and Greener SUV
The Volkswagen Tiguan has always been an important model for the Wolfsburg-based manufacturer since its debut in 2007, and according to VW, more than 7.6 million units of the compact SUV have been sold worldwide.
VW goes on to mention that the Tiguan is the most successful model worldwide under the Volkswagen banner, and that proves why this compact SUV swiftly carved its niche, becoming an indispensable part of Volkswagen's legacy.
About sixteen years later, the impressive Tiguan is now entering its third generation, and everything about it is a complete departure from the current model.
To begin with, it’s based on VW’s MQB Evo platform which makes it a tad longer than its forebear yet retains the same wheelbase, height and width as before. The new platform has given the new Tiguan an extra 37 litres of boot space to 652 litres when loaded up to the height of the rear seat backrests.
The biggest change here has to be the exterior and interior setups. If you look closely, the new Tiguan bears the same styling recipe as its fully electric ID counterparts. This, if we are to speculate, hints at the electrified future of the SUV, even if the third generation model still makes use of combustion engines.
Outside, the new Tiguan comes fitted with HD headlights for the first time and is the first model to be based on the MQB platform to feature the newly developed IQ. Light HD matrix headlights that are linked by an LED light strip.
The rear comes fitted with a darkened section of the rear lights with an LED light strip that links both clusters. There is also a neatly integrated diffuser with chrome detailing that adds a bit of sporty etiquette.
Moving inside, the Tiguan has been completely overhauled courtesy of a new 10.25-inch digital cockpit and infotainment system that measures 15 inches and comes with an entirely new menu structure and graphics. There is also a new head-up display and a new multifunction driving switch with an integrated OLED display to control the driving profile, radio volume, and background lighting colours.
Regarding the powertrains, Volkswagen says the new Tiguan will be powered by TDI, TSI, eTSI (mild-hybrid), and PHEV powerplants. The 2.0-litre TDI engines have outputs of 110kW and 142kW of power, while the 2.0-litre TSI can be had in two flavours: 150kW and 195kW.
The PHEV, on the other hand, is available in two variants, one with 150kW and the other with 200kW courtesy of a 19.7kWh battery pack that gives the SUVs an EV range of up to 100km. This particular model supports an 11kW AC charger and up to a 50kW DC fast charger.
As for the eTSI, it comes equipped with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine that is paired with a 48-volt battery and a 48-volt starter/generator for enhanced efficiency.
All units will be paired with a DSG transmission that can be controlled by a steering-mounted lever that reminds us of a certain competitor from Stuttgart, but we’re just saying. The steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are also part of the package.
Regarding safety, buyers can look forward to a large number of convenience and assistance systems as standard. These include side assist, front assist, lane assist, a rear view camera, and Dynamic Road Sign Display. Other features, such as Park Assist Pro with remote parking capability and Trailer Assist, can be had as options.
The Tiguan is one special model in the T-series range, and looking at the new one and what it brings, it promises to become a hit once again as a proper all-rounder SUV with a spec for everyone.
Volkswagen says the new Tiguan will go on sale in the first quarter of 2024. Local arrival timing hasn’t been communicated.
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