Volkswagen has expanded the Tiguan’s engine range with two more petrol units, both of which use the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine found in the Skoda Superb and Volkswagen Golf GTI. Both models are on sale now, with prices starting from £36,275.
The more powerful engine is the same unit found in the Volkswagen Golf GTI, although it’s been mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and four-wheel-drive system in the Tiguan. It generates 242bhp and 370Nm of torque, which Volkswagen says delivers a 0-62mph time of 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 142mph.
- SEE MORE Best SUVs to buy 2021
There’s a price to pay for the performance, though. Given the power on offer it’s no surprise that, with the exception of the Tiguan R, it’s the least efficient model in the SUV’s line-up. Claimed fuel economy stands at 32.1mpg with CO2 emissions of 200g/km.
The other 2.0 TSI engine option that has been added to the range offers 187bhp and 320Nm of torque, which gives this model a 0-62mph time 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 133mph.
This lower power output means it’s slightly more efficient, especially when paired with Volkswagen’s R-Line trim level, with VW claiming 34.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 189g/km.
The 187bhp Elegance model comes as standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof and adaptive cruise control. Inside, there’s a pair of heated front seats, a customisable ambient lighting system, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The 242bhp unit is only available in Volkswagen’s range-topping R-Line specification, with prices starting from £39,560. Upgrades over Elegance trim include 20-inch alloy wheels, a slightly more aggressive body kit, a larger tailgate spoiler and sports suspension, which drops the SUV’s ride height by around 10mm.
Interior upgrades include sports seats, stainless steel pedals, R-Line-branded floor mats and black headlining. There’s also some extra driver assistance technology, such as Volkswagen’s semi-autonomous Travel Assist system. Buyers can also opt for the less powerful 2.0 TSI engine in R-Line specification, for £36,140.
Now read our review of the new Volkswagen Tiguan R. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below…