2016 Volkswagen Tiguan – first drive video w/off-road
We fly to Berlin to get our first taste of the all-new 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
By Shahzad Sheikh
We flew to Berlin for the press launch of the all-new Volkswagen Tiguan – click below to watch our first drive video review including a drive of an off-road course!
Based on the MQB platform, same as the Golf and Audi A3, but here used for the first time on an SUV, the Tiguan represents the first salvo in a new all-out assault on the SUV segment by Volkswagen in every level of that market across the globe.
The Tiguan has been a successful nameplate in its own right, they’ve sold 2.8 million of these since it was introduced in 2007, selling them in 170 countries, which is astonishing if you consider that that’s out of something like 196 in total.
This new version is longer, wider and lower than before, with a 77m increase in wheelbase, 29mm of which is just for the rear legroom. Despite the larger footprint, it’s lighter and of course sleeker with better aerodynamics and an overall more leaner and sportier stance than the previous mumsy-looking version.
We’re likely to get a 1.4 150bhp version with two-wheel drive and the 2.0 with 180bhp with all-wheel-drive. Later in the year we’ll get a 2.0 with 220bhp in a ‘Sport’ version. No confirm prices as yet, but expect them to only a little higher than the outgoing version.
Check out the video above and you’ll see that’s it’s now remarkably practical both in terms of luggage and cargo space with 145 litres of more space with all the seats folded compared to before. And the rear passenger compartment is very spacious even for taller passengers, and the version we looked at has rear tables as well as rear vents, and power supplies include USBs (there’s even power supplies and a torch in the boot).
The rear seat slides back and forth giving more room. And the rear seat feels slight raised with no compromise on heardroom, which helps with children who want to see outside and those that get a little claustrophobic in the back of cars.
Upfront it’s all digital now for the instrument panel and a great improved infotainment system includes Apply Carplay and Android Auto. There is a drive mode selector and the seats are firmer but more comfortable.
Driving around the city streets of Berlin, it proved a very easy and intuitive car to operate with great visibility and a stern but useful navigation system. The ride was comfortable and cabin noise was well contained.
There was a purpose-built off-road track obviously designed to show off the Tiguan at its best, but it was still impressive to take it over ruts and bumps that you’d normally think twice about with a compact SUV – this was the off-road edition we tried.
Verdict
Another great offering in the family compact SUV segment which brings faultless German build and quality integrated with some great toys and served up in a very comfortable, practical and desirable looking package. Ideal for a small family.
2016 Volkswagen Tiguan – The Specs
Price: n/a expect pricing from AED95,000 ($25k) est
Engine: 2.0-litre 4 cyl TSI, 180bhp @ 3940-6000rpmrpm, 236lb ft @ 1500-3940rpm
Transmission: 7-speed DSG automatic, All-wheel drive
Performance: 0-100kph 7.7, Top Speed 207kph, 7.4L/100km
Weight: 1645kg
