Volkswagen’s Tiguan compact SUV, a model of which nearly 4 300 units have sold in the local market, has undergone a series of styling updates for 2011 that incorporate VW’s latest familial traits as well as revisions to the model line-up and new powerplants.
The exterior restyle incorporates strong horizontal elements in both the grille and headlamps and a sharper re-style of the C-pillars. Another distinctive feature is the optional bi-xenon headlamps, which incorporate a masked main beam and a swathe of LED daytime-running lights. The rear section features redesign taillamps with L-shaped LED elements, while the side profile is characterised by clean lines for the wheel arches and a rising window line.
The models are grouped in “on-road” (front-wheel drive Trend&Fun and Sport&Style 4Motion) trim lines with approach angles of 18 degrees, as well as “off-road” models with a 28-degree approach angle, a redesigned bumper and additional under-body protection (Track&Field 4Motion).
A choice of three direct-injection/charged powerplants is offered as well as a choice of front- and all-wheel drivetrains. The Tiguan’s three TSI petrol engines (1,4-litre in two power outputs and a 2,0-litre unit) serve up 90 kW, 118 kW and 155 kW. The power outputs in the 118 kW and 155 kW engines have increased by 8 kW when compared with the previous model. Both of the 1,4 TSI units feature the company’s BlueMotion technology (stop/start and battery regeneration), helping the 90 kW version to achieve a combined fuel consumption figure of 6,5 litres/100 km and CO2 emissions of 152 g/km. The 118 kW version returns 6,7 litres/100 km (8,7 litres/100 km in 4Motion guise) and CO2 emissions of 156 g/km (178 g/km for the 4Motion).
The two 2,0-litre turbodiesel engines produce 81 kW (280 N.m at 1 750-2 750 r/min) and 103 kW (320 N.m at 1 750-2 500 r/min). The Trend&Fun models feature a six-speed manual transmission whilst the Track&Field and Sport&Style derivatives are fitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
In terms of specification, the Trend&Fun model features 16-inch alloy wheels, colour-coded trimmings, ESP, six airbags, Isofix child seat anchorages, climate control, electric parking brake with hill hold/climb assist, electric windows and mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror and a CD/MP3 audio system among its standard items. Track&Field adds the off-road pack (underbody cladding, hill descent assist, ABS plus and pre-gear selection). Sport&Style further adds 17-inch alloys, matt chrome exterior trimmings, sports seats, fatigue detection system, leather upholstery and premium multi-function display.
Prices (VAT and emissions tax included):
1,4 TSI 90 kW 4×2 Trend&Fun BlueMotion: R272 600
2,0 TDI 81 kW 4×2 Trend&Fun BlueMotion: R289 100
1,4 TSI 118 kW 4×2 Trend&Fun BlueMotion: R299 500
1,4 TSI 118 kW 4Motion Trend&Fun: R318 200
2,0 TDI 103 kW 4Motion Track&Field DSG: R383 400
2,0 TDI 103 kW 4Motion Sport&Style DSG: R390 400
2,0 TSI 155 kW 4Motion Sport&Style DSG: R413 800
You can download new Tiguan specifications by clicking on the DOCUMENTS tab above the images on this article.
