| VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN 103 TDi, $39,190 |
Driveline:
2.0 litre; 4 cyl; 7 speed; DSG transmission |
 |
Fuel economy:
6.6 L/100km; Diesel |
Safety Features:
DFSA, HAB, ABS, ESC, TC, EBD |
ANCAP:
5 stars |
GVG:
3.5 stars |
Volkswagen’s Tiguan 103TDI has scored a convincing overall win in the largest and most hotly contested Australia’s Best Cars category. It’s now labelled SUVs or Sport Utility Vehicles rather than Recreational 4WDs, because this increasingly popular category now encompasses 2WD- and 4WD versions of the same model as well as petrol and diesel engines.
Despite being closer to the new category price cut-off than many of its competitors, the Tiguan has received a number of technical improvements since last year while retaining the same pricing structure for the five model lineup. Volkswagen’s acclaimed 2.0-litre diesel is the ideal choice for this type of family-oriented vehicle because it delivers effortless all-round performance and remarkable fuel efficiency. A seven-speed DSG transmission is now available across the range, and when coupled to the 2.0-litre diesel there is a further improvement in performance flexibility while fuel consumption is reduced by 16% to just 6.6L/100km in government testing. A DSG transmission combines the comfort of a conventional automatic with the efficiency of a manual gearbox.
Already Euro 5 emission standard compliant, the diesel Tiguan also features a particulates filter to ensure it has a clean burning powerplant.
In keeping with the current Volkswagen range, Tiguan delivers an impressive ride and handling package in all situations. The steering is light and direct in car parking manoeuvres, there is a firmer feel and rock-solid directional stability on the open road and this outstanding handling is always accompanied by a particularly well-insulated ride over broken or patched surfaces. Off the bitumen, Tiguan performed creditably, thanks to Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, ensuring power is directed to the wheels with the most grip. The gravel component of our test course also allowed evaluation of the ESC which ensured the Tiguan maintained excellent composure even on the loosest surfaces.
Drivers will be impressed by the high standard of presentation displayed in the dash, instrumentation and control layout, and they will also find a wide range of seating and steering adjustment that should cater to all shapes and sizes. Cabin convenience and practicality are the major reasons families turn to compact SUVs and Tiguan is among the best when it comes to things such as access, child-seat anchorage points and seat-folding combinations. Regrettably some of this convenience comes at the expense of a full-size spare wheel.
A full complement of occupant safety equipment is standard across the Tiguan range, including dual front and side airbags along with head-protecting curtain airbags front and rear. Anti lock braking, hill hold, electronic brake-pressure distribution and electronic stability control are also standard on all models, together with all the expected comfort accessories such as climate control, remote central locking and cruise control.
Build and finish quality is first-class, the galvanized body has a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and, of course, there’s an extensive range of dress-up options and accessories to suit all lifestyles.