The Volkswagen Tiguan is a mid-size SUV that entered the Indian market in December 2021, positioned as a premium offering. This blog post will delve into the Tiguan’s features, performance, and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance:
The Tiguan comes with a single 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine option, delivering a claimed fuel efficiency of 12.65 kmpl. Real-world mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and individual usage, and owners report figures closer to 10 kmpl in city driving.
Safety Features and Crash Performance:
The Tiguan boasts a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. It comes loaded with safety features, including six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, electronic stability control, hill hold control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Price, Trims, and Options:
The Tiguan has a starting price of ₹35.17 lakh (ex-showroom) and is offered in a single, fully-loaded “Elegance” trim. This trim includes features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, a digital instrument cluster, and a premium sound system.
Interior Space and Comfort:
The Tiguan offers comfortable seating for five adults with ample legroom and headroom. The cargo space is 650 liters with the rear seats up and expands to 1775 liters when folded down.
Technology and Infotainment System:
The Tiguan features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system is generally user-friendly, but some users might find the menus a bit complex.
Handling and Performance:
The Tiguan is not meant for serious off-roading, but it handles well on both city streets and highways. The 2.0-liter turbo engine provides good power and acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers a breeze.
Reliability and Maintenance:
Volkswagen has a well-established service network in India, but maintenance costs for the Tiguan are likely to be higher than some competitors due to its premium positioning and imported components.
Warranty and Service:
The Tiguan comes with a standard warranty of 4 years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Extended warranty options are also available.
Part Availability and Service:
Parts availability for the Tiguan might be slightly limited compared to some mass-market SUVs. However, Volkswagen’s service network should be able to handle most repairs and maintenance needs.
Competition:
The Tiguan competes with other premium mid-size SUVs like the Jeep Compass, Citroen C5 Aircross, and Skoda Kodiaq. It offers a combination of German engineering, premium features, and a comfortable driving experience.
Acceleration and Top Speed:
The 2.0-liter turbo engine propels the Tiguan from 0-100 km/h in around 8.3 seconds, with a top speed of 202 km/h.
Pros:
- Powerful and refined engine
- Premium features and comfortable interior
- Excellent safety rating
- Well-established service network
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Lower fuel efficiency than some rivals
- Limited off-road capability
Conclusion:
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compelling option for buyers seeking a premium SUV experience with a blend of performance, comfort, and safety. However, its higher price tag and potentially higher maintenance costs might deter some buyers.