- VW Tiguan leads group sales
- Third-gen model globally debuted
- Focuses on comfort, technology, space
The Volkswagen Group, which owns, among others, Skoda, Seat, and Porsche, is no minor force in the automotive industry.
However, starting in 2018, the Tiguan has dominated sales as the best-selling model not only within the Volkswagen lineup but throughout the entire auto group.
Therefore, the introduction of a new one is a significant event, particularly for VW executives.
Will the third-generation model be even more universally embraced than its predecessor? We put the beloved family SUV to the test during its global debut in Nice, France, in order to ascertain…
What factors contribute to the VW Tiguan’s popularity?
Undoubtedly, British purchasers of new automobiles are obsessed with SUVs. There are two possible explanations: either there is something peculiar in the water, or individuals are maintaining pace with the inflated Jones.
However, Volkswagen is, to be fair, a trendsetter in this industry.
The German manufacturer introduced its initial compact SUV in 2007 with a clear competitor in mind: the market-leading Nissan Qashqai.
The Tiguan, which debuted as a larger and more functional family vehicle than the Golf while maintaining a sartorial opulence consistent with Volkswagen’s guiding principles, was that SUV.
After nearly two decades and over seventy-eight million units sold worldwide, it is safe to state that Volkswagen made a wise decision in the mid-2000s.
The Tiguan was the third most purchased new Volkswagen by drivers in 2018. Its registrations, when combined with those of the larger Tiguan Allspace, surpassed those of the Golf and Polo.
This is, without a doubt, a revolutionary new powertrain for the British market.
Initial perceptions
It is evident from the cover that Tiguan’s design has yet to undergo a significant radical transformation in response to modern trends; this is a plus if you enjoyed previous iterations and a drawback if you did not.
Although it is more aggressive, streamlined, and athletic on the Elegance and R-Line trim levels, that is about it for wildness.
For a more rugged appearance, the R-Line Black Style Package includes additional privacy features and, as expected, black accents.
What is the experience of driving like?
Priority number one for the majority of drivers operating a midsize SUV such as the Tiguan is occupant and driver comfort.
A variety of powertrain options are offered for the 2024 model.
Two plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), two moderate hybrid petrols (e-TSIs), two more potent turbocharged petrols (TSIs), and one 2.0-litre diesel (TDI) are among these.
During the debut in France, we tested the 148bhp 2.0-liter TDI and 1.5-liter eTSI engines.
Powered by a mild hybrid assist system, the eTSI accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 9.1 seconds, enhancing both fuel economy and performance. It is practical when a rapid acceleration is required to draw away from a junction.
Those who have previously operated a Tiguan will immediately feel at ease, and the driving experience is essentially identical. This is not at all a negative aspect.
Volkswagen’s best-selling SUV continues to provide a refined experience for ordinary traffic.
Both vehicles traversed winding mountain roads and the A8 into Nice peacefully and comfortably.
Although you can toggle between driving modes, ‘Sport’ will not qualify you for a role in the Formula 1: Drive to Survive series on Netflix.
Although the steering resistance is slightly increased and the suspension becomes somewhat more rigid, the Tiguan could be more communicative in general.
The drive selector is now mounted on a stalk on the steering wheel column as opposed to the center console, which we prefer for simple access. The seven-speed automatic gearbox simplified matters.
When ‘4Motion’ all-wheel drive becomes available later in the United Kingdom, it will be an advantageous option to have on the 2.0-liter petrol engines if you intend to tow a horsebox, caravan, or trailer.
The most significant powertrain innovation for the Tiguan is the plug-in hybrids.
The all-electric range is double that of the previous model, providing 62 miles of emission-free, quiet travel.
With an average daily mileage of 18 miles per vehicle, one could operate the car for three days without recharging.
Furthermore, Volkswagen has simplified matters when it comes to charging.
The at-home charging rate has been increased from 3.6kW to 11kW; therefore, a wall box can now entirely charge the device in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Additionally, public charging has expanded to include 50kW rapid charging, which can provide 10–80% top-offs in approximately 23 minutes.
Constructive and functional
In the latest interaction of Volkswagen’s preeminent family SUV, all the excitement unfolds here.
Just like the 2024 Passat, the interior of the Tiguan has been redesigned. We also adore it.
Although there is little of a difference between the TDI and eTSI trim levels, the R-Line is more abundant with its leather upholstery and sportier accents.
The focal point is the new ambient dash, which features a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen and 30 colorways dubbed “atmospheres” by Volkswagen (or 12.9 inches on lesser trims).
By synchronizing Spotify arrangements with specific ambiances, one can either provoke or comfort others through their musical preferences, contingent upon their degree of altruism.
Although its efficacy is a matter of personal preference, the Volkswagen system is undeniably responsive.
In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an update will include ChatGPT AI voice command.
Volkswagen astutely responded to public demand for analog controls by substituting buttons for touchpads on the steering wheel, which functioned in conjunction with the 10-inch digital instruments.
Volkswagen has effectively implemented cutting-edge technology while ensuring that the interior does not feel devoid of emotion, unlike some extremely clinical minimalist interiors.
Mainly, if you are a passenger seeking a place to nestle up and feel at home, the combination of premium quality and sophisticated design will put you at ease immediately.
In contrast to the Range Rover, the interior of this SUV is not particularly abundant; however, it remains of commendable quality, especially considering the approximate £6,000 price reduction in comparison to an equivalent Evoque model.
Multiple hours of driving were made considerably more pleasurable by the exceptionally comfortable yet firm seats; if the definition of an ideal seat is as subjective as the perfect pillow or mattress, then these should receive universal approval.
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The individual who retrieved the shotgun will appreciate the Elegance’s front massage seats and R-Trims, which ostensibly target muscle groups in the spine and pelvic floor.
On the contrary, this is one for the driver to reassess at the service station; the sensation is entirely perplexing and completely distracts you.
I did not use the heated seats during the twenty-degree sunshine in Nice, but the ventilation feature will be helpful during the one week of the year when the United Kingdom is hotter than all Jet2 destinations in Europe.
Practically speaking, the Tiguan is marginally taller, more comprehensive, and longer, providing ample headroom and legroom for rear passengers, as well as ample space for five passengers.
The actual winner, however, is the trunk capacity increase of 652 liters, or 37 liters, over the previous model. The Qashqai, which has only 504, needs to catch up.
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