Volkswagen Tiguan Road Test

Volkswagen Tiguan

However, none of the new units are expected to make an appearance in the Escape, which is restricted to the TDI 140PS engine. On the good side it is Euro 5 compliant well before the 2009 deadline, with CO2 emissions of 189g/km with the 6-speed manual gearbox and 199g/km for the 6-speed auto with tiptronic.

The choice of transmission is only available in conjunction with the diesels, at present, while the sole petrol is confined to the manual ‘box. The choice does make a difference to the fuel consumption figures. Where the manual has figures of 30.1-, 47.9- and 39.2mpg for the urban, extra-urban and combined, the automatic has fuel economy returns of 29.1- 44.8- and 37.7mpg, for the same, respective cycles.

With the auto box on board, the test had a 0-62mph time of 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 113mph, thanks to the 140 PS (138bhp) at 4,200rppm and 320Nm (236lb ft) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500rpm.

In fully automatic mode, the performance is adequate and the acceleration is good but it feels a little muted. Slipping into ‘S’ mode makes a huge difference to the fun factor - even more than using the sequential shift.

The Tiguan has a fairly wide stance, so it is stable on twisting roads and the steering is positive, almost like that of a hot hatch, which is no bad thing as it inspire confidence. The 4MOTION system doesn’t overwhelm the drive; in fact you don’t even notice it is there most of the time. It is helped in its job by an ESP system, which includes ASR traction control and an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL). These are standard throughout the range along with ABS with EBD and Brake Assist System (BAS).

Front, side and curtain airbags are there to cushion the blow, should an accident occur and rear, side airbags are an option. All of these safety measures, together with a maximum 5-star rating for occupant protection. 4-star for child safety and 2-stars for pedestrian protection, in the EuroNCAP tests, has put the Tiguan in ABI insurance group 9.

According to Volkswagen, the compact SUV sector accounts for one in 20 car sales and the company expects the best selling Tiguan to be the 2.0TDi in SE trim, while over 85 per cent of customers will opt for a diesel only five per cent will go for the Escape.

Volkswagen Tiguan