The compact SUV now delivers hot hatch performance
Volkswagen has introduced two new range-topping engines to the Tiguan range that make the compact crossover quicker than some hot hatches.
The Tiguan can now be ordered with the 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged gasoline unit from the Golf GTI as well as the 2.0-liter biturbo diesel that was previously available only on the Passat.
The Golf GTI engine delivers 220 PS (217 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm, allowing the Tiguan to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.5 seconds and to reach a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). The standard 4Motion all-wheel drive system certainly contributes to the acceleration time, as does the standard seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
The VW Tiguan is even faster with the 2.0-liter BiTDI engine, reaching a top speed of 228 km/h (142 mph). However, the 0-100 km/h time stays the same at 6.5 seconds. The four-cylinder turbodiesel direct-injection engine delivers 240 PS (237 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm and is also mated as standard to a 7-speed DSG and 4Motion all-wheel drive. An advantage compared to the TSI unit is the better average fuel economy, rated by VW at 6.4 l/100 km (36.7 mpg US), with corresponding CO2 emissions of 167 g/km.
Both engines are available only for the Highline trim level, with prices in Germany starting from €39,625 ($44,700) for the Tiguan 2.0 TSI and €42,700 ($48,180) for the Tiguan biturbo. The latter model also gets a distinguishing design feature at the rear, the trapezoid tail pipes that identify it as the most powerful Tiguan model.