Volkswagen launches the Tiguan SUV

The long awaited and much anticipated Volkswagen SUV – the Tiguan, has finally been launched today starting at Rs 27.98 lakh, ex-showroom in Delhi, for the Comfortline trim. The Tiguan is the first offering from VW to be based on the famed MQB platform and is designed to appeal to buyers from a class above, essentially those looking to buy a BMW X1 or a Mercedes-Benz GLA or an Audi Q3.

The SUV will be available with only one engine and transmission option. Under the flat bonnet of this brand new vehicle is the tried and tested and much appreciated 2.0 TDI diesel engine. This 1968cc four-cylinder turbo diesel puts out 141bhp at 4000rpm and 340Nm of peak torque that stays from 1750 to 2750rpm. Transmission to all four wheels is via the much loved seven-speed DSG working in conjunction with intelligent AWD that transfers torque to whichever wheels need it the most. Claimed fuel economy of this engine in the Tiguan stands at 17.06kmpl as certified by the ARAI.

A key aspect of the Tiguan in its Highline trim, which will retail for Rs 31.38 lakh ex-showroom Delhi, is its self-sealing tyres on 18-inch wheels. The tyres are filled with a special gel that seals the rubber as soon as a puncture occurs. As a result it can be driven without any need for repair or replacement till the recommended change or till the tread has worn out. “One of my friends in France had similar self-sealing tyres on his Passat CC. When he got them changed at 75,000km he discovered seven punctures in one of the tyres. They were so effective that he had continued to drive with the punctures without ever realising!” said Thierry Lespiaucq, Managing Director, Volkswagen Group Sales India.

Replete with numerous creature comforts, driver assists and active and passive safety equipment, the new Tiguan should offer good value for money in its segment and will certainly eat into some of the market-share of the other three German players. “The Tiguan has proven its mettle as a robust and capable carline world over and we are delighted to introduce our global best-seller in the Indian market. Be it daily commute or meticulous off-road adventure, the Tiguan is a perfect companion,” added Lespiaucq.