Volkswagen Tiguan

Let’s talk about what’s powering this thing—the 2.0-litre TSI engine. It consistently puts out around 190 PS (or 187 bhp) with a healthy 320 Nm of torque. The only gearbox on offer is a 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic, and we all know how slick those can be when they’re working well. The fact that 4MOTION all-wheel drive is standard is a big plus, giving you extra confidence in various driving conditions. Engine specs are consistent across the board, whether we're looking at expert reviews or real-world owner feedback.

We got a chance to spend some time with the Tiguan facelift, which shares the same engine and transmission setup, and it gave us a real feel for what the Elegance trim is like on the road. The engine is seriously competent—responsive, with smooth and enjoyable power delivery throughout the rev range. Turbo lag? Barely there. The mid-range punch is particularly impressive, making overtaking on highways effortless. And that DSG gearbox? We’re impressed. The shifts are quick and seamless, especially in Sport mode, where it holds onto gears longer and downshifts eagerly, making the drive more engaging.

Fuel efficiency, though, is always a concern. The official ARAI figure is around 12.65 kmpl, but real-world numbers tell a different story. In the city, expect 8-10 kmpl, while highway driving could see 12-13 kmpl. The massive 70-litre fuel tank provides an estimated range of about 700-800 kilometers.

Volkswagen has also included its 4Motion Active Control system, which lets you switch between Snow, On-road, Off-road, and Off-road Individual modes. The On-road mode further breaks down into Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual sub-modes.

Ride and Handling

The Tiguan's suspension is on the firmer side, which might feel a bit uncomfortable for rear passengers, especially on rough roads. Over seriously bad roads, the ride can get jarring, and you might hear the suspension working inside the cabin.

Where the Tiguan truly shines is in handling. It feels solid and stable at high speeds, especially with the 2.0 TSI engine. While the firmer suspension affects ride comfort, it also contributes to the SUV’s composed dynamics.

The 235 mm Hankook tires offer excellent grip, allowing the Tiguan to hold its own confidently in corners. While there's some body roll if you push it, it's well-controlled.

Inside, the Tiguan Elegance cabin feels a step above the competition. Material quality is excellent—soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and upper door panels give it a genuinely premium feel. The leather-wrapped steering wheel adds another touch of class.

The 12-way power-adjustable heated seats provide excellent support, making long drives comfortable. There’s plenty of space in the front, and even in the rear, two adults can sit comfortably. The panoramic sunroof makes the cabin feel even more spacious.

On the tech side, there’s an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s responsive and easy to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a fantastic 8-speaker audio system.

Higher up on the dash, you get a crisp 10-inch digital instrument cluster, which lets you customize what information you see.

However, the touch-sensitive sliders for the 3-zone climate control are a bit of a letdown. They look sleek, but they can be distracting while driving. Wireless charging is a welcome addition, though.

Boot space is decent and adjustable in height, making it practical for loading different types of luggage.

The Volkswagen Tiguan has a refined and quite professional exterior design. The front is characterized by its striking LED headlamps, incorporating Volkswagen's IQ.Light technology, flanked by a chrome grille that integrates seamlessly with the brand's logo. The sculpted front bumper adds a touch of aggression without being overly sporty. Moving along the sides, the Tiguan boasts a strong, horizontal character line, emphasizing its length and solidity. The silver anodized roof rails not only add a functional element but also enhance its visual appeal. 

 The 18-inch alloy wheels are specifically designed for this variant, contributing to its premium stance. At the rear, the design is clean and uncluttered, with distinctive LED tail lamps and the model name proudly displayed across the tailgate. The overall impression is one of understated elegance, projecting a sense of quality and sophistication without resorting to excessive ornamentation. It's a design that should age well and appeal to buyers seeking a mature and premium SUV aesthetic.

Safety is a strong suit for the Tiguan Elegance. Standard features include 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, and ESC. It also comes with hill assist, hill descent control, a tire pressure monitoring system, and an active hood for pedestrian protection.

A notable addition is Park Assist, a Level 1 ADAS feature. The Tiguan holds a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which reinforces its reputation as a safe SUV. Owners frequently cite safety as a major reason for choosing the Tiguan.

The Toyota Fortuner and BMW X1 rival the Tiguan in India to an extent, but the Tiguan blends premium quality with practical usability in true VW fashion. It has no major drawbacks but does come with a few quirks.