Like a diva that needs to make sure his or her entrance is noticed at an event, Volkswagen has finally arrived to the compact SUV party with an attractive yet expensive entrant to the segment.
VW’s Tiguan features their superb 2.0 liter turbocharged, direct-injection 4-cylinder that pumps out a spirited 200 horsepower. Mated with either a 6-speed manual in the base trim or a 6-speed automatic in the higher trim levels, it delivers seamless power and attractive fuel economy.
If you are fan of VW’s Touareg styling, the Tiguan won’t disappoint. In addition to sharing odd-sounding names, the Tiguan’s design clearly identifies it as coming from Wolfsburg. Its curves are muscular and fluid, giving it a masculine stance which will help it stand out from its competitors.
The interior is standard VW simplicity with some new features that surprise and delight. The available touch-screen navigation with rearview camera finally brings VW up to par with the best from Japan and the available panoramic sunroof provides the diffused lighting that gay men dream of.
Interior room is generous for a vehicle of this size and while it can seat up to five, you’ll be happier if you only invite three friends along. It features the requisite split folding rear seat that enlarges the cargo area to allow all but the largest packages and the rear seats slide forward up to six inches to increase rear cargo capacity when needed.
Safety is an important part of the VW brand and the Tiguan is no exception. Like all 2009 VWs, it comes with electronic stability program and six airbags standard. Also available on the SE and SEL trims is 4Motion – VW’s all-wheel drive system that allows for superior traction and handling in a myriad of weather conditions.
So, what’s not to love? This diva not only came late, she ran up the bill when she got dressed. The base Tiguan S starts at $23,200 but very few style-conscious buyers will consider its monochromatic interior and diminutive wheels. The majority of Tiguans owners will opt for the SE that starts at $26,925 or the SEL that begins at a hefty $30,990. A fully loaded SEL will be north of $35,000.
Arriving Fashionably Late to the Party
