If you wonder just how Volkswagen of America can report a 10.6 percent growth in June sales over a year ago — its 12th consecutive month of sales growth — test drive the Tiguan.
Although the automaker’s Jetta SportWagens, Passat Wagons and Golfs are still the stars of the lineup, the Tiguan shows why the automaker is likely going to continue its winning streak.
Let’s take a step back first, though, and remember that the Tiguan didn’t arrive in the crowded crossover market until 2009. Some wondered if the Tiguan could even make a dent in its automaker’s own lineup, let alone the market overall. The Tiguan is smaller, taller and not as obviously VW as the Passat.
But take a minute and really examine the Tiguan and you might well be surprised.
The test model I had was the “S,” the low-end model with the two-liter TSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 207 foot-pounds of torque. While some have griped it doesn’t have the rock-solid feel of the Passat, I found it plenty sturdy and capable on city streets and highways. True, I haven’t driven it through snow or slick rain conditions, but there was none of the notorious “tippy” feel of some other automakers’ taller crossovers.
Yet I also liked that the Tiguan makes you feel as if you’re higher in the car without prompting you to get a truckers’ license. It’s the same feel (now stay with us for a minute) the Smart car provides — a smaller car with higher sedan-type seating.
The Tiguan also had decent space — 24 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats up or 56 cubic feet with the seats folded. That’s still about 15 inches less space than the Passat wagon offers with the seats up, but folded down you only lose one inch of cargo space. Not bad. Plus, let’s remember that lessening cargo space when the seats are up means rear passengers have more comfortable rides.
Inside, the Tiguan is a nice mix of soft fabrics and hard surfaces. I found little extras such as the telescoping steering wheel and heated side-view mirrors terrific pluses.
There are also plenty of upgrades available, including adding Bluetooth, a leather steering wheel with audio controls, and a panoramic sunroof.
Although it’s true that VW die-hards might moan that the automaker’s signature features are more noticeable in a Passat, it’s obvious why Consumer Guide Automotive this year recommended the Tiguan as one of the best vehicles for consumers to consider and buy.
