VW’s Tiguan range bolstered with potent 2.0-litre engines
The third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is undoubtedly an exciting addition to the family SUV market, striking a balance between practicality and great driving manners, which resonate with most buyers in this segment.
When this current model launched in 2024, it was only available with a sole 1.4-litre TSI engine. During our time with the car over the festive season, the engine left us yearning for more power, especially at the top of the rev range, leaving us wondering whether it would suit tasks like towing. We knew, however, that Volkswagen had plans to offer more, and now, those plans have come to fruition.
The new additions to the Tiguan range are the 2.0-litre TDI and 2.0-litre TSI engines, which are available exclusively on the Life and R-Line models.
The 2.0-litre TDI engine delivers 110 kW and an impressive 340 Nm of torque, addressing our concerns with the 1.4-litre TSI engine, particularly around power and fuel efficiency. Our time with the 1.4-equipped Tiguan resulted in an average consumption of 7.7l/100km, while the TDI is claimed to be even more efficient at 6.6l/100km. In terms of performance, the TDI variant sprints from 0-100 km/h in just 9.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 200 km/h.
Meanwhile, the 2.0-litre TSI engine produces 140 kW and 350 Nm of torque, replacing the outgoing model’s 162 kW unit, though the torque figures remain unchanged. On the performance front, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and tops out at 225 km/h, matching the top speed of the previous model. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission that drives all four wheels via the brand’s 4Motion system as standard.
The newly introduced variants share the same features as the current lineup. For instance, the Life rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and gets black roof rails, body-coloured bumpers, black trim strips on the side windows, and seat upholstery in fabric, amongst others.
The R-Line on the other hand adds sports comfort front seats that are heated and ventilated and also comes with a massage function. Silver roof rails, chrome trim strips on the side windows, and 19-inch Coventry alloy wheels are also part of the flagship trim.
The introduction of the new engine options is a welcome addition to the updated Tiguan range, broadening its appeal to a wider range of customers. Given the impression left by the 1.4-litre TSI during our time with the vehicle over the festive season, these new engines are sure to elevate the driving experience and cater to varying needs and applications.
Pricing
- Tiguan 1.4 TSI 110kW DSG: R664,500
- Tiguan 1.4 TSI 110kW Life DSG: R716,900
- Tiguan 2.0 TDI 110kW Life 4Motion DSG: R770,800
- Tiguan 1.4 TSI 110kW R-Line DSG: R781,600
- Tiguan 2.0 TDI 110kW R-Line 4Motion DSG: R851,500
- Tiguan 2.0 TSI 140kW R-Line 4Motion DSG: R852,600
