2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace unveiled

The word 'long-wheelbase' somehow resonates more with buyers compared to cars that come without that prefix. The long-wheelbase E-Class outsells the regular one in Asia while the VW Tiguan Allspace outsells the regular 5-seater Tiguan across the globe. More space and practicality for a ‘few’ lakh rupees more isn’t a big deal, apparently. In fact, Volkswagen has sold 1.5 million units of the Tiguan Allspace globally and 55 per cent of the Tiguans that roll out of the VW's factories are LWB versions. And now, it’s time for a facelift. Just like the 5-seater Tiguan that got refreshed previously, VW has some thorough upgrades for the 2021 Tiguan Allspace as well.

For starters, the design is sharper than before thanks mainly to the redesigned LED headlamps and taillamps. The LED headlamps themselves can now be had with matrix functionality that prevents glare on oncoming traffic. There are more standout elements with respect to design; the Tiguan Allspace now gets sweeping LED indicators and a new illuminated strip in the radiator grille on both sides of the new VW logo adds some bling to the front-end.

On the inside, things continue to remain neat, albeit subtle upgrades aim to elevate the cabin experience. AC, heating and ventilation can now be controlled via a new digitised module on the centre console while the seats now come with better back support. There’s four-way adjustable lumbar support, ventilation as well as massage function for the front seats. There’s also a colour heads-up display unit that displays speed, direction and warnings. That said, there’s now also the option of having an 8 speaker, 480W, Harman-Kardon surround sound system for the music aficionados. And lastly, the Euro-spec Tiguan Allspace will also come with semi-autonomous driving capabilities by relying on familiar systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

In terms of engine options, the Tiguan Allspace will be available internationally with two TSI engine options; 1.5-litre TSI with 148bhp (FWD) and a 2-litre TSI making 187bhp (AWD). There’s also the 2-litre TDI diesel available internationally in two states of tune, 148bhp and 197bhp. The lower output variant gets FWD while the more powerful set-up benefits from 4Motion AWD as standard. There’s no change to the transmission and the upgraded Tiguan Allspace will continue with the tried and tested 7-speed DSG.

There’s no official word on whether the 2021 Tiguan Allspace will make it to our shores. But we really aren’t complaining because Volkswagen has big plans for India this year. The Taigun mid-size SUV, with 95 per cent localisation is right around the corner and VW is also preparing to launch the upgraded 5-seater Tiguan in India. Unlike the previous iteration of the Tiguan Allspace that continues to be sold in India as a CBU, the 5-seater Tiguan will be locally assembled to keep costs in check.