[Car Review] Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line 380TSI

The hotly contested mid sized SUV market sees another contender from Volkswagen’s all new Tiguan. The previous Tiguan was relatively popular due to its premium qualities and relatively affordable price tag vs it’s other German competitors. Now it returns as an even stronger contender with premium amenities and a larger body overall.

Exterior

Sitting on the new MQB platform, The R line variant looks properly sporty being longer ,wider and lower with a fiercer front bumper and black inserts to portray a more aggressive face. LED headlights and taillights  adorn the front as well as the rear to complete the premium look.

Impressively, it has a full sunroof that covers literally the entire roof of the car letting in tonnes of natural light if you choose to do so. Additionally, it has LED integrated lights along the sides to emit a soothing glow at night. This is a feature that is not present even in some more prestigious marques.

Interior

The interior sees an upgrade with more premium materials and equipment in the cabin. Active Info display allows you to toggle between different configurations and even allows the navigation map to be displayed in the instrument cluster. the R Line 380TSI also comes equipped with the multi woofer Dynaudio Excite Surround system.

Wheelbase has extended to 2681mm, gaining 77mm over the previous model so a more spacious cabin fit for 5 is assured. The 3 zone Pure Air Climatronic air conditioning system also ensures your family and friends will never need to sweat it out along the journey.

Drive/Economy

This is the 380TSI 4 motion variant with the familiar 2.0TSI engine which is both strong and clean with the wet type dual clutch gearbox delivering lightning quick shifts. It’s so quick and agile it feels like a golf GTi on stilts. This shows on the official 0-100kmh sprint that the Tiguan achieves in 6.5secs, not too shabby for a family SUV. More impressive is the fact that in Singapore real world conditions, i managed a relatively frugal 9.5km/l which is remarkable for a vehicle with so much power. The Tiguan has a good balance in ride comfort, being firmly sprung but not harsh to aid in cornering confidence.

Additionally to aid in sporty progress or to suit different driving moods, the Tiguan is also equipped with Dynamic Chassis  control system (DCC). Special mention should also go to the brakes that feel inspiring under all loads and occasions.

Safety

The Tiguan receives the highly acclaimed 5 stars in the Euro NCAP test being equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control, Active bonnet that lifts 50mm upon impact and Front Assist with City Emergency Braking. 4MOTION provides additional traction and security on all matter of weather and road conditions that we experience on our little island.

Conclusion

For its asking price of S$191,400 at press time,  the Tiguan R Line 380TSI is loaded to the tilt with features and comes across as an all rounded vehicle that can double both family hauling duties as well as being a sporty drive when the occasion calls. I especially like this Jekyll and Hyde personality if you can’t have 2 cars. It comes across as even a credible alternative to luxury brands such as the BMW X3. In fact, it is so accomplished in fact that it might steal sales from its own relatives in the VAG group.