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Volkswagen dealers are now taking orders for the all-new Tiguan SUV, ahead of first deliveries in the summer.
The initial launch versions will cost from £25,530, though by the time all variants become available then entry price is expected to be around £22,500.
The Tiguan is now an important part of the VW dealer’s line-up. Currently it is the third best seller in the model range and sales have consistently increased every year since the car first launched in 2007.
Therefore the second-generation model is a case of evolution rather than revolution, and also marks the start of an SUV offensive that will see the brand offer a model in all major segments before long.
The Tiguan is the first Volkswagen SUV to make use of the wide-ranging modular MQB platform, though the forthcoming Ateca from sister brand Seat uses the same underpinnings.
It is both longer, by 60mm, and wider, by 30mm than its predecessor, though the overall height is dropped by 33mm producing a more sleek exterior profile.
The wheelbase goes up by 77mm, freeing up significantly more interior space, and this is made more versatile by a rear bench seat that can slide by up to 180mm. Putting this seat fully forward extends the rear bootspace by 145 litres to 615 litres, while VW also claims the Tiguan’s up to 2,500kg towing ability as unique in the segment.
VW is extending the Tiguan’s engine range to seven units – four diesel with power outputs between 115 and 240PS and three petrol of 125 to 180PS. All seven are Euro 6 emissions compliant and promise more power and more efficiency than previous engines available in the model.
For the launch only two units will be available – the 2.0 TDI 150PS diesel and the 2.0 TSI petrol, which VW says between them will take three-quarters of all UK Tiguan sales. Launch models will also have VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive, the diesel available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission, the petrol DSG only.
Orders for further engine options are expected to open in two waves, on 5th May and 2nd June.
Volkswagen is heavily promoting the safety specification of the new Tiguan. Standard on all models will be a host of safety aids including Front Assist; City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring.
The driver and passengers will also benefit from new technology seen recently in other VW releases, such as the Active Info Display a Head-Up Display, an around-view camera and Trailer Assist.
Andrew Charman
