Tiguan Automatic translate

Launched in 2007, the Volkswagen Tiguan represents a significant step in the evolution of Volkswagen’s approach to the crossover SUV segment. The name "Tiguan" is a portmanteau of "tiger" and "iguana", reflecting the model’s intended combination of power and adaptability.

The car was developed on Volkswagen’s Project A5 (PQ35) platform, the same one used for the highly successful Volkswagen Golf, providing a robust and proven foundation that emphasises driving dynamics and structural integrity.

Story

The first generation Tiguan (2007-2016) was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show and was subsequently offered in various markets around the world. It was powered by a transverse engine and was available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive system, known as 4Motion, provides dynamic torque distribution, which significantly improves handling in adverse weather conditions. Engine options were varied, including turbocharged TSI petrol and TDI diesel, to suit different performance and economy needs.

In 2011, the Tiguan received a facelift that brought not only aesthetic updates such as a redesigned grille and new headlights, but also advanced technology, including an upgraded infotainment system and improved fuel economy. Safety features were significantly improved with the inclusion of lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, making the Tiguan a strong contender in its class for safety.

The second generation, launched in 2016, marked a significant shift with the switch to Volkswagen’s modular MQB platform, which allowed for a roomier cabin and lighter car. This generation saw the introduction of advanced technology integrations such as the Active Info Display, which replaced traditional analogue gauges with a customisable digital display, and a range of driver assistance technologies, including autonomous emergency braking.

One of the key aspects of the second-generation Tiguan is its global appeal: for example, a long-wheelbase version designed for the North American and Chinese markets, where demand for spacious SUVs remains high and the Volkswagen Tiguan in St. Petersburg is one of the best-selling German cars. This version optionally offers space for a third row of seats, which is rare in compact SUVs, and thus expands the market reach to families who need extra seating.

Environmental considerations have also played a role in the evolution of the Tiguan’s design, with recent versions of the model moving towards greener options such as the Tiguan eHybrid, which combines a traditional combustion engine with an electric motor to enable short-distance, all-electric driving, thereby reducing emissions.

In addition, the Tiguan has been heavily involved in motorsports, which has influenced its design and construction. Volkswagen has used the Tiguan in various promotional rallies and competitions that not only test its capabilities in extreme conditions, but also demonstrate its durability and reliability to a global audience.

Single-platform

The VW Tiguan shares its chassis with several other Volkswagen Group models, thanks to the use of the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform. This platform is known for its flexibility, allowing it to be adapted to a wide range of vehicles. Here are a few models that also use the same MQB platform as the Tiguan:

1. Volkswagen Golf – Although the Golf is a more compact car than the Tiguan, it uses the MQB platform, which highlights the versatility of this chassis across a variety of vehicle sizes and types.

2. Skoda Kodiaq – This larger SUV from Skoda is another car built on the MQB platform. The Kodiaq, like the Tiguan, offers the option of third-row seats, making it a direct competitor in the family SUV segment.

3. Seat Ateca – The compact SUV Seat Ateca is closely related to the Tiguan and uses the MQB platform to offer a sporty, responsive driving experience that is characteristic of the brand’s style and performance.

4. Audi Q2 and Q3 – These small crossover SUVs from Audi are higher-end models that also use the MQB platform. They offer premium features and trim, with the Q3 being particularly close in size and market positioning to the Tiguan.

These vehicles illustrate the strategic advantage of the MQB platform, which not only enables economies of scale but also ensures that the various brands within the Volkswagen Group can offer vehicles that meet specific market needs while maintaining core engineering excellence.

Safety

The Volkswagen Tiguan is known for its high safety ratings, which are an important advantage in its market segment. It has undergone various crash tests conducted by reputable safety organizations and has received decent results, which underline its status as a safe family car.

Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme)

• The Tiguan has been tested by Euro NCAP and has consistently scored highly. The latest model tested (after the 2016 redesign) received a 5-star safety rating. It scored particularly well for adult occupant protection and safety assist technologies. This rating reflects reliable crash stability and the presence of advanced safety systems such as autonomous emergency braking and lane keeping assist.

IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) in the USA

• The Tiguan also performed well in IIHS tests. The 2021 model received a “Good” rating in all crashworthiness tests, the IIHS’s highest rating. It also earned a “Top Safety Pick” designation, especially when equipped with special headlights and safety systems. Crash prevention and mitigation technologies, such as the Forward Collision Prevention System, were highly rated, earning a “Superior” rating for the Vehicle-to-Vehicle Frontal Crash Prevention System.

NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) in the USA

• The Tiguan received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, which includes high scores in frontal and side crash tests and good performance in rollover tests. This means excellent occupant protection in a variety of crashes.

These ratings reflect the Tiguan’s well-designed safety infrastructure, including the use of high-strength steel in the vehicle’s structure, a full complement of airbags, and the integration of advanced driver assistance systems. Continuous safety system updates help maintain high ratings and consumer confidence in safety standards.

Equipment

The Volkswagen Tiguan is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features to suit different driver preferences and budgets. Specifics may vary slightly by market, but in general the following trim levels are common across regions:

S (basic equipment)

• Features : Includes LED taillights, 17-inch wheels, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB port, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cloth seats and manual climate control.
• Safety : Standard safety features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

SE

• Features : This trim adds keyless entry with push-button start, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping driver’s seat and synthetic leather upholstery.
• Safety : Additional safety features include adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.

SE R-Line Black

• Features : More aggressive exterior styling with 19-inch black alloy wheels, R-Line bumpers, panoramic sunroof and darkened exterior trim. Interior features include ambient lighting and optional BeatsAudio.
• Safety : Maintains the same level of safety as the SE, but often includes options for additional upgrades like adaptive headlights.

SEL

• Features : Upgrades include a digital cockpit (Volkswagen digital instrument cluster), navigation, power tilt, adaptive cruise control, remote engine start and leather seats.
• Safety : Enhanced safety features such as Park Distance Control and Active Blind Spot Monitor.

SEL Premium R-Line

• Features : Tops out with 20-inch wheels, a premium Fender audio system, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and leather seats with R-Line badging.
• Safety : This trim typically includes all available driver assistance technologies, including a 360-degree camera system and parking assistance.

Each trim level builds on the previous one, providing more luxury, comfort, and technology features. Additional packages and individual options are also available to further customize the car, such as all-wheel drive (available on all trims), third-row seating (in certain trims and regions), and various infotainment and convenience features.

With a variety of trim levels, the Tiguan can satisfy a wide range of preferences, from those on a budget to those looking for a premium SUV.

Sales

The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the best-selling SUVs worldwide. To give you some concrete numbers and trends, here’s a breakdown based on available data from recent years:

1. Global sales : In 2020, the Volkswagen Tiguan reached another milestone, surpassing the six million unit mark since its debut in 2007. It has consistently remained one of Volkswagen’s best-selling vehicles worldwide, with around 910,926 units sold in 2019 alone, making it the best-selling model in the entire Volkswagen Group that year.

2. European sales : The Tiguan also performs well in Europe. For example, in 2020, despite the downturn in the automotive industry caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tiguan remained one of the best contenders in the SUV segment. It was among the top three best-selling SUVs in Europe.

3. Sales in Russia : The Russian market has also shown increased interest in the Tiguan, although specific sales figures for Russia alone are less frequently provided. The Tiguan is popular with Russian buyers due to its robust construction and suitability for use in harsh winter conditions. Volkswagen has seen significant growth in this market over the years, and the Tiguan is one of the leading models driving that growth.

The SUV market, especially compact SUVs like the Tiguan, is growing rapidly. Tiguan sales dynamics reflect this trend, with steady growth occurring until the onset of the global pandemic. Initially, the pandemic caused a sharp decline in sales due to production shutdowns and economic uncertainty. However, as markets stabilized and production ramped up, recovery trends began to emerge.

The Tiguan’s constant evolution, the introduction of hybrid models and constant updates to its technology and safety systems, keeps it competitive and appealing to a wide audience. This adaptability is likely to support its sales in the future, despite growing competition in the SUV segment and the auto industry’s shift to electric vehicles.

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a testament to Volkswagen’s ability to innovate and adapt in the competitive SUV market. From its beginnings as a compact SUV with a variety of engine options to its current status as a technologically advanced family car, the Tiguan continues to evolve, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and meeting the market’s growing demands for performance, safety and environmental responsibility.