Volkswagen’s Compact SUV.
There is an abundance of compact 4WD ‘s now available in the Australian market at a price bracket to suit nearly every budget, but the Tiguan raises the bar with an entry level price of $33,990, with European pizzazz included!

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a great little all-rounder, it can seat 5 adults (bag’s not the middle), handle the kids sports gear, deliver the groceries, easy to park and performs exceptionally on the open road.
The power is delivered by a 2.0-litre Turbo petrol engine that is available in either 125 kW or 147 kW form, both boasting 280 Nm of torque from 1700 to 4200 rpm for the 125kw. With the 147 kW variant rising all the way to 5000 rpm. What this means is drivers will have the benefit of top torque virtually all the time. Both are standard with a six triptronic auto.

On the road the Tiguan is exceptionally responsive thanks to that usable torque. You find it quite easy to skip away from the lights, and that the “power band” keeps right on going to 110km and beyond, so yes it is a nimble little rocket in a soft roaders clothing offering a smooth ride at a measly 8 litres per 100 on the highway!

The interior well set out, comfortable supportive seating with a mile of rear legroom available courtesy of the adjustable back seat, easily interpreted steering wheel controls and instrumentation and a radio with an OFF button! The list of standard & safety features are impressive- front, side and curtain airbags, MP3 compatible 8 speaker stereo, electric windows, full central locking, roof rail’s, cruise control, ABS with break assist, the list goes on. ESP (Electronic Stability Program) is standard equipment across the entire Tiguan range, Tiguan has a European NCAP rating of five stars for occupant protection. So it’s safe as well as zippy!

The rear cargo is where Tiguan lacks slightly. Though the rear seats fold flat giving great cargo space, the rear cargo space for a family of 4 or 5 could be severely lacking. It will take 2 medium (luggage) bags and 2 carry on bags in the rear, any more and you need to remove the rear parcel shelf, it takes 8 enviro shopping bags fill the rear to capacity, so to the larger family, this may be a concern, especially for the odd long weekend away and the annual family road trip. There is one bonus here, we mentioned that the roof rails are standard, so a set of roof racks and the standard Aussie roof accessory is yours to add! Yep an 80litre roof pod can cure all these problems.

The Tiguan is a surprising car, offering European build quality in a Korean price range. Ride, handling and comfort are great, with exceptional safety levels and great looks to go with it. At $33,990 for the 125KW version, you are getting a lot of QUALITY car for your money.