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Review – Volkswagen Tiguan (2024), the SUV for everyone?

March 25, 2024

Volkswagen Tiguan bigger

Unsurprisingly, the new Volkswagen Tiguan is again a bit larger compared to the model it succeeds. It’s a trend in car land. Cars must meet increasingly stringent safety standards and customers expect more interior space. The manufacturer responds to all demands and desires by making cars larger. Volkswagen is “getting cozy” with the new Tiguan, but be aware that the width (1,842 mm) and wheelbase (2,680 mm) have remained the same. At 4,539 mm in length, the Volkswagen Tiguan is exactly 30 mm longer than its predecessor.

hefty digital displays

So the differences remained limited. But thanks to a smarter construction of the entire car, there is still more interior space inside the third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan. Speaking of the interior: Volkswagen opted for the new layout found in other models, such as the Volkswagen ID.7. So count on sleek design, hefty digital displays and good ergonomics. The use of materials is of a high standard. Even more pleasing is Volkswagen’s choice to revert to conventional push buttons on the steering wheel. Delicious.

VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN (2024): has Volkswagen listened to criticism? REVIEW – AutoRAI TV

Multifunction switch

Another nice feature of the interior: centrally located on the center tunnel, Volkswagen places a rotary-push switch. This multifunction switch can be used for audio volume and all settings for the Atmospheres system. In fact, you can use it to select multiple functions.

ErgoActive-Plus chairs

The seats are great, especially if you choose the optional ergoActive-Plus seats. These have a massage function with ten pressure points and a four-way adjustable lumbar support. In addition, it is possible to program at which outside temperatures the seat heater or seat ventilation is automatically activated. The interior is definitely one of the strengths of the Volkswagen Tiguan.

Volkswagen Tiguan

DCC Pro System

But what about driving? There, too, this car scores points. Handling feels mature, with the new Tiguan’s optional DCC Pro system in particular working wonders. Thanks to adaptive shock absorbers, it is possible to give the Tiguan a completely different character with a few actions. From extra comfortable to extra sporty. There are fifteen steps to choose from. The system can also respond autonomously to the road surface. The system calculates the damping for each wheel and adjusts the dampers accordingly in a fraction of a second. The Tiguan’s steering feel is well done. Not too light, but just a fine heaviness in the controls.

Volkswagen Tiguan eTSI (mild-hybrid)

An all-electric Volkswagen Tiguan does not exist. Volkswagen has the ID models for that, such as the ID.4 or ID.5. No, buyers have a choice of mild-hybrids and plug-in hybrids with the Tiguan. Under the name eTSI, Volkswagen carries mild-hybrids. There is a choice of a 96 kW (130 hp) and 110 kW (150 hp) eTSI. Both involve a 1.5-liter four-cylinder (1.5 TSI evo2) with active cylinder deactivation (ACTplus). As a mild hybrid drive, the gasoline engine is paired with a 48V lithium-ion battery and a 48V belt starter alternator.

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan Plug-in hybrid (eHybrid)

There are also two plug-in hybrids, so-called eHybrids. These have been completely redeveloped. There is a choice of a variant with a system output of 150 kW (204 hp) and an extra powerful version with 200 kW (272 hp). The 204-hp eHybrid has a 150-hp gasoline engine and a 115-hp electric motor. This version has 350 Nm. The 272-hp eHybrid has a 177-hp gasoline engine with 115 hp of electric power as well. Torque comes out to 400 Nm.

Larger battery

Thanks to the switch to a 1.5-liter high-tech turbocharged gasoline engine (1.5 TSI evo2) with variable turbocharger geometry (VTG) and a new 19.7 kWh battery (net) – the predecessor had a 10.6 kWh battery – the Tiguan can travel significantly longer distances all-electric. On paper, even up to 100 kilometers. In practice, count on about 70 to 80 kilometers.

fast charging

The battery is now charged at 11 instead of 3.6 kW at the Wallbox home and other AC charging points. Moreover, for the first time, both Tiguan eHybrid models can also charge at DC fast-charging stations with an output of 50 kW. A strong trait. All hybrid models feature front-wheel drive. The Tiguan is allowed to tow 1,800 kilograms.

Interior

Starting price of new Volkswagen Tiguan

What should you choose now? It depends a lot on the wallet. Do know that the price difference between the eTSI and eHybrid is extremely small. For example, the Tiguan 1.5 eTSI can be ordered from 46,990 euros, but then you don’t get the version you want as a minimum. The Life Edition with much richer equipment comes as an eTSI with 130 hp starting at 49,990 euros. The 150-horsepower engine variant starts at 51,990 euros. Here it comes: the 204-hp plug-in hybrid comes as a Life Edition starting at 50,990 euros. You read that right: 1,000 euros cheaper compared to the 150-hp eTSI. As far as we’re concerned, that’s the version to go for. Those who desire sportier looks opt for the R-Line Business.

Equipment

For completeness, the base version of the Tiguan comes standard with features such as the new Digital Cockpit (10-inch), the central 12.9-inch (32.8 cm) display of the multimedia system (MIB4), the driving experience switch, the Car2X warning system, App Connect wireless smaprtphone integration, Air conditioning automatic 1-zone (Climatronic), USB-C interfaces with 45 W of payload (front), black roof rail and various auxiliary systems. Standard assistance systems include Blind Spot Sensor (Side Assist), Distance Control System (Front Assist), Lane Keeping Assist (Lane Assist), Rear View Camera (Rear View) and Road Sign Recognition. Also standard: LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Life version

The Tiguan Life is distinguished by the following additional features: 3-zone Climatronic (Air Care), heated front seats, variable load floor (adjustable in two heights), parking assistant (Park Assist), automatic distance control (Adaptive Cruise Control), high beam assistant (Light Assist), App-Connect (Apple and Android integration), electrically folding door mirrors, ambient exterior lighting and 17-inch alloy wheels in Venezia design.

Conclusion review Volkswagen Tiguan

The new generation Volkswagen Tiguan cannot help but be a success. It is more complete than ever, drives exceptionally well and is also well put together. Price-wise, the plug-in hybrid is the better deal, but for people who do not yet want to plug in on a regular basis, there are the eTSIs. In short: there is a Tiguan for everyone. The new Tiguan will be built in Wolfsburg. You get a 4-year warranty and free roadside assistance within Europe.

















Volkswagen Tiguan 2024