The all-new Volkswagen Tiguan has been shown off to the press at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Having sold over 2.6 million models first time round, the second-generation of Volkswagen’s small SUV has sharper looks and a more spacious interior.
Four versions are on display: a ‘classic’ model, a version tuned for ‘off-road’ use, an R-Line model with a sports body kit and a Tiguan GTE concept, which boasts a plug-in hybrid powertrain with 215bhp.
Based on the same MQB underpinnings found in the Golf, the Tiguan is over 50kg lighter than the previous model, yet the boot has grown to 615 litres of space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded, maximum luggage space grows by 145 litres, to 1,655. This is thanks to the Tiguan growing in length by 60mm, with more space between the front and rear wheels.
With power ranging from 113 to 237bhp, a wide range of engines are expected, with efficiency said to be improved by up to 24 per cent. Some of these gains will come from the new 4MOTION Active Control four-wheel drive system, which can be adjusted by the driver to suit different conditions.
Power will come from 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel engines, as well as 1.4 and 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol units, with the option of front- or four-wheel drive.
The Tiguan GTE will use a similar powertrain to the Passat GTE, boasting a 1.4-litre turbo petrol, coupled with an electric motor and battery pack. It’s expected to have an all-electric range of around 30 miles when charged from the mains.
Able to tow up to 2,500kgs, the Tiguan also boasts new safety systems, including Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, Lane Assist and Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard.
The latest Tiguan will also be better connected, opening up new services, including automatic accident notification, online traffic and parking info and smartphone connectivity.
Expected on sale in the UK later this year, prices should be similar to the current model, which costs from £21,960 to £31,650, although the advanced GTE plug-in hybrid will command a premium.
If the Tiguan still looks too small, how about the full-szed Volkswagen Touareg instead?
