The Tiguan's introduction is big news for VWSA. Not only does it now have a true competitor for Toyota's RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Subaru Forester and the like, it also heralds the introduction of innovative TSI technology to the local line-up.
The 1.4 TSI (or Turbo Stratified Injection) engine combines turbo- and supercharging, and direct injection to deliver potent performance, frugal fuel consumption and reduced emissions from a small capacity unit.
It was decorated in 2006 as the Best New Engine in the 2006 Engine of the Year awards.
Along with the 110-kW 1.4 TSI, the range will also include a 147-kW 2.0 TSI and a 2.0-litre TDI spewing out 103 kW and 320 Nm of torque from 1 750 - 2 500 r/min.
Image-friendly
Locally, the Tiguan will be available in a choice of one off-road (Track & Field) and two tarmac (Trend & Fun and Sport & Style) models.
While the "designer models" are equipped with VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive system, they also feature urban-friendly styling, sports suspension and increased comfort levels.
Trend & Fun comes standard with 16-inch, climatronic air conditioning, electric windows, electric park brake, multifunction display, six-airbags and ESP.
Sport & Style adds 17-inch alloy wheels, sports seats for the front occupants, a leather trim package and chrome styling elements.
The more hard-core Track & Field model comes with 4Motion as standard and has push-button activation for functions like hill descent control and traction control.
These models feature an "off-road design", transmission protection, 16-inch alloys, black roof rails, colour-coded bump strips, an integrated compass and a leather trim package.
The Tiguan range, at launch, will consist of the following models;
1.4 TSI Trend & Fun 4motion ManualR265 500
1.4 TSI Track & Field 4motion Manual R273 500
2.0 TDI Track & Field 4motion Manual R312 500
2.0 TDI Track & Field 4motion Tiptronic R324 000
2.0 TDI Sport & Style 4motion Manual R312 500
2.0 TDI Sport & Style 4motion Tiptronic R324 000
The following models will be available from the fourth quarter of 2008 into 2009;
1.4 TSI Trend & Fun 4x2 Manual R247 500
2.0 TSI Track & Field 4motion Manual R335 500
2.0 TSI Man Track & Field 4motion Tiptronic R347 000
2.0 TSI Sport & Style 4motion Manual R335 500
2.0 TSI Sport & Style 4motion Tiptronic R347 000