KUALA LUMPUR, June 3 – Volkswagen Group Malaysia quietly slipped in a new variant of the Tiguan into its range, offering a more affordable, front-wheel drive only SUV with a smaller 1.4 litre twin-charged engine for RM178,888 in Peninsular Malaysia.

Built on the Golf VI platform, the Tiguan has been in the market since 2007, with a total sales volume in excess of 600,000 units worldwide. In Malaysia, the Tiguan has hitherto been offered in all-wheel-drive version with a 2.0 litre engine. A quick check at the Volkswagen website in Malaysia showed that only the new 1.4 litre version is offered, so we assume the 2.0 litre version is no longer available.

“The Tiguan is the latest addition to our range of offerings and it is a dynamic two-wheel drive SUV that provides power yet fuel efficiency for the performance-driven, and still encapsulates advanced safety features for peace of mind. It provides both a fun and dynamic city drive as well as comfortable long-distance travelling experience making it a more accessible addition to the trademark "Tiguan’ experience,” said Christoph Aringer, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia.

The new Tiguan features a 1.4l (160PS), gasoline-powered twin-charged direct injection TSI engine mated to a 6-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG). This is the same engine that powers the MK VI GolF TSi, and produces an impressive 240Nm of torque from as low as 1,500 rpm. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is claimed at 8.9 seconds, while top speed is mooted at 198 km/h.

The Tiguan has impressive combined fuel consumption ratings, returning a frugal 7.1litres/100km, or 14.1 kilometres per litre. Idle Engine Stop and a regenerative braking system are standard features.

The Tiguan comes with a comprehensive safety package. Of note is the ‘Rest Assist’ feature that detects drowsiness in the driver and alerts him or her. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is another feature in the Tiguan – this feature is designed to help a driver retain control of a vehicle under poor grip situations, and although it is rarely appreciated, is something I consider very essential. Passive safety includes 6 airbags, (dual front, dual side and curtain), standard three-point seatbelts, safety-optimised front headrests to minimize head and whiplash injuries in an accident, and an anti-theft alarm system for unparalleled safety and security.

The interior of the Tiguan promises comfort, with space and innovative features in abundance. Fitted with ‘Milan’ Alcantara seats, the Tiguan comes with an electric parking brake with auto-hold, leather gear knob, auto dimming rear view mirror, foot lights, split folding rear bench seat with slide function, folding table on front seats, adjustable front centre armrest, seat adjustments for the front seats plus an 8-speaker audio system. 

An optional Tech Pack offers a ‘Rear Assist’ rear view camera, ‘Climatronic’ auto air-conditioning with 2-zone temperature control system, RCD510 colour touch screen with MP3 and 6-CD changer radio system, multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, cruise control and a leather steering wheel for RM10, 000.

In addition, the Tech Pack offers bi-xenon headlights (an equally important feature for night driving) for low and high beam with integrated LED daytime running lights, dynamic headlight range adjustment and dynamic bending lights, front and rear fog lights, and electric adjustable folding and heated exterior mirrors.

The 17-inch ‘Boston’ alloy wheels, environment lighting, heat insulating glass, rain sensor and rear parking sensor are standard issue. The Tiguan is offered in five colour choices: Pure White, Reflex Silver, Titanium Beige, Pepper Grey and Toffee Brown.