Within the fashionable period, automobiles preserve getting larger and greater between generations. Or not less than, they’re definitely not getting smaller. That is very true in America, the place larger is at all times higher and the autos within the present crop of “compact” crossovers at the moment are practically as giant as full-size SUVs from a decade in the past. Don’t ask about curb weights, both, as extra highly effective drivetrains, together with widespread adoption of hybrid-electric elements, add vital mass, as highlighted by the brand new BMW M5 “sport sedan.”
Inside that fray, nonetheless, the brand new Volkswagen Tiguan stands aside. VW purposefully refined the third-gen Tiguan to cater higher to American client wants, which meant dropping the third row to create extra inside quantity for the entrance and rear seats. The wheelbase nonetheless measures the identical size at 109.9 inches (2,791 mm), however shorter overhangs imply the general size truly shrinks by practically two inches. But extra environment friendly packaging on the within additionally ends in a marginal passenger quantity improve of about two p.c.
To assist preserve pricing engaging at beneath $30,000 to start out, VW additionally determined to skip out on a hybrid variant, however the brand new EA888evo5 2.0 L turbocharged-four nonetheless delivers extra energy and improved gas financial system. And all the above truly contributes to the Tiguan losing a few pounds whereas evolving from the second to 3rd technology, shaving about 160 lbs (72.5 kg), relying on trim.
Michael Teo Van Runkle
There’s some ID.4 in right here, but additionally a giant serving to of generic.
Michael Teo Van Runkle
Michael Teo Van Runkle
19-inch wheels and tallish sidewalls helped the experience and dealing with.
Michael Teo Van Runkle
Michael Teo Van Runkle
The venerable EA888 engine.
Michael Teo Van Runkle
19-inch wheels and tallish sidewalls helped the experience and dealing with.
Michael Teo Van Runkle
The venerable EA888 engine.
Michael Teo Van Runkle
Generic outdoors, nice inside
Volkswagen USA lately invited Ars to hitch a wet take a look at drive of the Tiguan’s SE and SEL R-Life trims in Bozeman, Montana. At first look, the brand new exterior undoubtedly hews extra carefully to present crossover traits, which the Tiguan arguably helped to inaugurate again within the late-2000s. There’s additionally a wholesome dose of Volkswagen ID.4 design language all through, particularly on the nostril. The inside really steps as much as a brand new degree, although. I began out in an almost-base Tiguan SE, which implies front-wheel drive and minimal choices, not even onboard navigation.
Like most patrons, although, I linked my iPhone by way of Wi-fi CarPlay, which successfully makes onboard nav out of date. And the SE’s 12.9-inch touchscreen atop the sprint supplies all the mandatory tech, as premium supplies all through clearly prioritize touchpoints to boost the impression of high quality.
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