The 2015 Volkswagen Tiguan is offered in several different trims, ranging from base S models to mid-range SE, luxurious SEL and sporty R-Line models.
No matter which model buyers choose, the Tiguan is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, making 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. On the base Tiguan S a 6-speed manual transmission is standard. A 6-speed automatic that includes Sport and manual-shift modes is optional on the S and standard on the rest of the lineup. Opt for the sporty R-Line and buyers will also get steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Available on all Tiguan models with the 6-speed automatic, VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive system can continuously vary power to each of the four wheels depending on the conditions. Although 90 percent of drive torque normally gets sent to the front wheels, 4Motion can send up to 100 percent to the rear wheels when needed.
The Tiguan is a crossover wagon, and it allows plenty of passenger space plus a mechanical layout that allows it to ride and handle like a compact sedan. A strut-type front suspension and 4-link rear setup keep the wheels in contact with the road, while an electromechanical power steering system provides precise control. The Tiguan includes 4-wheel vented disc brakes, with vented discs in front as well as Brake Assist and an electronic parking brake. The Tiguan can tow up to 2,200 pounds when properly equipped.
Inside, the Tiguan's design affords easy entry and exit, and good visibility from the driver's seat. The back seat is also quite spacious and split 40/20/40, allowing access to a full 56.1 cubic feet of cargo-carrying space--over the already spacious 23.8 cubic feet with the back seat in place.
The base Tiguan S includes power heated side mirrors, cloth seats, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel, air conditioning, intermittent wipers, Bluetooth connectivity and an 8-speaker sound system. SE models add vinyl seats plus heated front seats, a power driver seat recline, heated washer nozzles, larger 17-inch alloy wheels and an iPod adapter. SE models offer an Appearance package that includes 18-inch wheels, silver roof rails, chrome trim, fog lamps, a rearview camera, push-button start and premium audio with satellite radio compatibility. The SEL adds a panoramic roof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Fender Premium Audio System and touch-screen navigation.
The R-Line models get big 19-inch 'Mallory' alloys plus black wheel-arch extensions, a sport suspension, power leather seats, a roof spoiler, aluminum kick plates, a flat-bottom steering wheel, a black headliner, stainless-steel pedals, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding and heated mirrors, bi-xenon headlamps, LED running lamps and additional lighting and trim.
Strong, Refined Engine
Effective, All-weather All-wheel Drive System
Spacious Seating Arrangement
Good Flexibility For Cargo
Manageable Size
Upgraded Navigation, Connectivity And Sound Systems
The VW Tiguan remains mostly unchanged for 2015. Styling changes are minimal, with the only update being a new rear bumper for R-Line models. However inside, all models benefit from additional infotainment features including VW's Car-Net system and a nicer touchscreen interface. A backup camera is also standard this year.
The Volkswagen Tiguan goes up against a long list of strong rivals like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, and it stands out even in that crowd for its very refined, economical engine, crisp handling and very cleanly styled, nicely appointed interior. Feature-wise, with the introduction of the new Car-Net system and upgraded Fender audio, the Tiguan is now also near the front of the pack for entertainment and connectivity. Furthermore, the Tiguan R-Line takes all the sporty potential in the Tiguan's design and makes the most of it from an appearance standpoint.
