Volkswagen Tiguan new designed and upgraded in 2012

The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan is a crossover SUV, compact in size that combines economy and utility with stylish interior appointments typically not found in a vehicle of its size. The interior is well constructed and made of high quality materials and the exterior has been upgraded and is well designed. The driving dynamics are engaging and serve to achieve a level of sophistication on the road.

There are three trim levels for the Volkswagen Tiguan: the S, SE and SEL. The base model S has standard features of cruise control, air conditioning, keyless entry, full power accessories, 16-inch alloy wheels, a tilt-and telescopic steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front seats with eight manual adjustments, and an audio system with eight speakers, CD player and Bluetooth.

The SE model of the Volkswagen Tiguan adds fog lights, an exterior trim with chrome, 17-inch alloy wheels, a steering wheel wrapped in leather that has many functions, a roof rack, leather-like vinyl upholstery, front seats that are heated, a driver seat that is adjusted by power, washer nozzles that are heated, roof storage console and an upgraded audio system with satellite radio, stereo with a touchscreen interface and a connection for the iPod. The Sunroof and Navigation Package for the SE offer a navigation system, sunroof and 18-inch wheels.

The SEL model of the Volkswagen Tiguan includes all of the features of the previous models and adds wipers that sense the rain, ambient interior lighting, bi-xenon headlights that are adaptive, automatic climate control with two zones, leather upholstery, keyless ignition and a driver seat with 12 power adjustments and memory. The Premium package for the model adds a rearview camera and a Dynaudio option adds all-wheel drive and a premium eight speaker audio system. Other options available for all models are 19-inch wheels, a trailer hitch and side steps.

Specs:

The engine in the Volkswagen Tiguan is a 2.0 liter 16-valve dual overhead cam in-line four cylinder engine that is turbocharged and capable of producing 207 pound-feet of torque and 200 horsepower. All models are available in front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is an option for the SE and SEL models. The standard is a six-speed manual transmission with an optional six-speed automatic available for all models.

Fuel economy for the Volkswagen Tiguan is rated at 20 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg combined for vehicles with an automatic transmission and either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Ratings for the vehicle with a manual transmission are similar with 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg combined.

The interior of the Volkswagen Tiguan is high quality, with solid craftsmanship and premium feel enhanced by a metal trim. The seats are firm and provide good support with ample space for both front and rear seated passengers. With the rear seats in an upright position, the cargo space is 23.9 cubic feet and expands to 56.1 cubic feet with the second row of seats folded down.

The drive of the Volkswagen Tiguan is enhanced by the turbocharged engine which facilitates the passing of vehicles and provides a lively ride for daily driving. The ride is smooth over the bumps and ruts in the road and the handling around corners is tight and conveys confidence.