Volkswagen unveils new Tiguan Compact 4x4

Volkswagen has taken the wraps off its new Tiguan compact 4x4 which will go on sale in February 2008, following its world public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Based on the Concept Tiguan that made its debut at the Los Angeles Motor Show last year, the Tiguan is slightly larger than the Volkswagen Touran compact MPV and an appearance which reinforces its strong links to its ‘big brother’, the Touareg. In the UK, the Tiguan will initially be available with two engines – a 2.0-litre 140 PS TDI diesel which is likely to be the most popular model, and a 1.4-litre 150 PS TSI petrol unit. Later in 2008 a 170 PS TDI and two further petrol engines will become available to order.

The Tiguan is slightly larger than the Volkswagen Touran compact MPV at 4.4 metres long, 1.8 metres wide and 1.6 metres in height. It has a purposeful appearance which reinforces its strong links to its ‘big brother’, the Touareg, with raised suspension, large tyres and true 4x4 styling cues.

In the UK, the Tiguan will initially be available with two engines – a 2.0-litre 140 PS TDI diesel which is likely to be the most popular model, and a 1.4-litre 150 PS TSI petrol unit. Later in 2008 a 170 PS TDI and two further petrol engines will become available to order. Both diesel engines meet the stringent Euro 5 emissions standard that comes into effect in 2009.

S, SE and Sport models will be offered at launch, all with 4MOTION four-wheel drive and an 18 degree angle of approach, a figure that defines the size of obstruction the vehicle can drive over. Customers requiring additional off-road capability can choose a 28 degree angle of approach front end. This model comes with a radiator protection grille, underbody protection, hill descent control and a compass.

UK pricing is expected to start at around UKP 19,000 (US$38,000), with Volkswagen Retailers due to start taking orders for the new car in November.