VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN TDI 4 MOTION R-LINE
Test drive the top diesel grade
The first-generation Tiguan, released in 2007, was the model that marked the beginning of SUVs becoming a major source of revenue for Volkswagen, as it has for many other automakers. Since then, the Tiguan has sold over 7.6 million units worldwide, becoming the backbone of the company.
The new Tiguan will be the third generation, debuting globally in 2023 and introduced in Japan in 2024. Just as the first generation used the same PQ35 platform as the Golf and Touran, the latest model will also use the MQB Evo platform shared with the Golf. The raised front and rear fenders and illuminated emblem give the impression of being the latest generation.
The lineup includes two powertrains: a 1.5-liter eTSI mild hybrid and a 2.0-liter TDI clean diesel, each available in three trim levels: the entry-level “Active,” the mid-range “Elegance,” and the premium “R-Line.” The model I test drove this time was the top-of-the-line diesel “TDI 4Motion R-Line.” The EA288 evo 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder turbo diesel engine delivers a maximum output of 193 PS/3500-4200 rpm and a maximum torque of 400 Nm/1750-3250 rpm. It features a twin-dosing system with two SCR catalysts to reduce NOx emissions. The transmission is a 7-speed DSG (DCT). This purely internal combustion engine vehicle lacks an electric motor and drives all four wheels with full-time all-wheel drive (4MOTION).
Huge center display
This test drive took place in Miyazaki, Kyushu. Known for its warm climate, but especially for its majestic scenery, typical of Kyushu, the PR representative’s desire to “enjoy VW’s diesel on this road” was what made the drive possible. After actually completing the drive, the light traffic, moderate ups and downs, and magnificent scenery were the perfect conditions for a test drive.
I got into the Tiguan that was waiting for me in the airport parking lot. As mentioned above, it shares the same platform as the Golf, and therefore shares much of the interior with the Golf 8.5. The biggest difference is that the shift is operated with a small lever on the right side of the column, unlike the Golf. It gives the impression of being similar to recent Hyundai vehicles. On the other hand, the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel have a familiar Volkswagen-like feel, so existing users will not find it strange.
The standard center display (Elegant and above) is a massive 15-inch screen, and for better or worse, the interior of the car is dominated by the presence of this huge screen. The meter panel has various display modes, but all the necessary information is displayed properly, achieving both functionality and appearance.
The optional leather seats (242,000 yen) are more of a comfort type with less side support than a sporty type, but they have a wide range of adjustment, allowing for a natural driving position. The R-Line comes standard with a variable gear ratio progressive steering, which is quick with a lock-to-lock rotation of about two turns at low speeds. Even with 20-inch tires (255/40R20, Pirelli Scorpion), the minimum turning radius is kept to 5.4m, making it easy to maneuver in parking lots.
From winding roads to forest roads
First, we head south through the city. The odometer on the test vehicle read about 600km. The journey to our destination, Cape Toi, and back was about 180km, so it’s fair to say that we’re still in the break-in stage. The idle stop function doesn’t operate frequently, but the diesel-like vibration when stopped is barely noticeable. The redline starts at 4500rpm, but of course, since it’s a diesel, there’s no need to rev it that high, and it’s pleasant to drive with torque at low revs. Incidentally, the engine speed when cruising at 100km/h is about 1500rpm in seventh gear.
On winding roads, I was able to fully enjoy the sporty side of the Tiguan. Although the vehicle weighs 1,750 kg, it is light for a 2.0-liter diesel AWD C-segment SUV, and this directly contributes to the light and nimble feel of the ride. What also stood out was the evolved adaptive chassis control “DCC Pro.” With a two-valve structure that independently controls the extension and compression sides, it achieves a high level of both comfort and posture control. The driving profile can be changed using a dial located on the center console, and there are six modes: “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Custom,” “Off-road,” and “Snow.” Selecting “Sport” gave the car a nimble feel that was unusual for an SUV.
Before I knew it, I had arrived at my destination, Cape Toi. I drove slowly so as not to disturb the horses walking nearby. The diesel-like noise of the past was subdued. Of course, a mild hybrid would offer better performance, but I felt that the current technology was sufficient to achieve the goal (low noise and vibration).
Since we had time to spare, we also ventured along unpaved forest roads on the way back. Even though it was a short, slow ride, we felt the vehicle was reliable off-road. The side sills are hidden by the doors, which is a nice touch, as it helps prevent your skirts from getting dirty after driving off-road.
The result of serious efforts
During the test drive, the average fuel economy recorded was a maximum of 19.6km/L. This figure exceeds the WLTC mode fuel economy (15.1km/L), and although we were driving at around 60km/h on roads with few traffic lights, it is still an astonishing figure. Considering the fuel tank capacity of 61L, a cruising range of 1,200km is also a realistic figure. The final figure was 14.8km/L, but considering the test drive, which involved filming (going back and forth, stopping repeatedly), which was demanding on fuel economy, we can confidently say that this is quite excellent.
The impression of the new Tiguan is that it has the refined look of the latest generation, but also retains a certain simplicity. It doesn’t make any flashy claims, and the words “simple and sturdy” suit it well. It is an SUV that seems to exude its good qualities the more you use it, and it has a feeling of blending naturally into your life.
Volkswagen’s relationship with diesel has had a strange history, but driving the latest Tiguan gave the impression that the company’s serious efforts have culminated in a complete product.
PHOTO/Mitomu KOGAHARA
SPECIFICATIONS
Volkswagen Tiguan TDI 4Motion R-Line
Body size: Length 4540, Width 1860, Height 1655mm
Wheelbase: 2680mm
Vehicle dry weight: 1750kg
Engine: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC diesel turbo
Total displacement: 1968cc
Maximum output: 193PS (142kW) / 3500-4200rpm
Maximum torque: 400Nm (40.8kgm) / 1750-3250rpm
Transmission: 7-speed DCT
Drive system: AWD
Suspension type: Front MacPherson strut, rear 4-link
Brakes: Front ventilated disc, rear disc
Tire size (rim width): Front 275/35ZR21 (9.5J), rear 325/30ZR21 (11.5J)
Fuel consumption rate (WLTC mode): 15.1km/L
Vehicle price (tax included): 6,532,000 yen
