Though it may compete in the hotly contested midsize SUV class, the Tiguan - courtesy of upmarket styling and a plush interior - is seen as a premium product in South Africa. The handsome, restrained good looks (improved by the stylish R-Line package) appealed to many, with over 41,000 consumers signing on the dotted line.
Recently, the Tiguan has received a subtle facelift, bringing it more in line with the rest of the VW range - including the upcoming Polo and Golf 8. Up front, the radiator grille now flows into the redesigned headlamps, with revised bumpers giving a fresher, more dynamic feel. At the rear, a few subtle changes (mostly to the tail light cluster) has given the familiar shape a cleaner look.
Inside, the interior has also received its fair share of subtle updates and improvements. The first notable improvement is the redesigned steering wheel, which features the new-style logo and redesigned satellite controls. A new gear shifter also replaces the old-style lever, which has been used extensively in VW models of the past. The overall architecture of the original dashboard remains - and that’s no bad thing. The Tiguan has always been a classy place to spend time. However, touch-sensitive climate controls give the interior a modern feel. Naturally, the VW infotainment is a joy to use and remains not only intuitive, but feature rich too.
Our test unit, a 162 kW 2.0-litre derivative with the R-Line package, looked absolutely superb. Both optional extras, the Matrix LED headlamps and 20-inch Suzuka alloy wheels just finished off everything nicely. Other options fitted to our test car included a panoramic sunroof, heads-up display and IQ Drive - a safety package which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change System, Park Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
Standard features include LED headlamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cruise control. Over and above that, R-Line models receive ‘Vienna’ leather seats, a digital instrument cluster and ambient lighting.
But what’s it like to drive? Well, in a nutshell, it’s excellent. Volkswagen has done a great job at melding efficiency with performance. The 162 kW motor can shift the SUV with gusto, providing a claimed 0-100 km/h time of just 6.5 seconds. The top speed is pegged at 220 km/h. Despite the rather brisk performance, the Tiguan is an accomplished cruiser. Happy to sit back and relax, the VW blurs through the gears seamlessly (the seven-speed DSG ‘box is excellent) and settles down nicely, with luxury car rivalling refinement. Another benefit of cruising in the Tiguan is the fuel economy - Volkswagen claims the 2.0 TSI can achieve a combined total of 7.8 L/100 km - during our time with the Tiguan, we noted a reasonable 8.3 L/100 km.
The interior feels plush and suitably solid. There are one or two questionable plastics, but it’s mostly plus (and dense) feeling materials. The seats are superb, offering plenty of adjustment, comfort and support. Space in the second row is decent, with only the tallest adults perhaps struggling with knee room. The boot is simply cavernous, offering up to 1 665 L of packing space with the seats folded down.
Verdict
At just over R700 000, we're left very impressed with the Tiguan. It's really difficult to find fault with such an accomplished product. As polished as it is, we'd opt for the turbodiesel derivative. With 130 kW and 380 Nm of torque on tap, it's even more frugal and offers similar performance. What's more, it's cheaper too. However, there's no denying the characterful turbopetrol model isn't a cut-price premium SUV. It feels properly luxurious and premium, but doesn't wear a necessarily premium price tag. The facelift Tiguan is a sure winner.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI 162 kW 4Motion R-Line cost in South Africa?
The Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI 162 kW 4Motion R-Line starts at R859,400 in South Africa, though this can climb significantly with options like the Matrix LED headlamps, panoramic sunroof, and those gorgeous 20-inch Suzuka alloys that push the price well over R900,000.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI 4Motion worth buying?
The Tiguan 2.0TSI 4Motion is worth buying if you prioritise premium build quality and interior refinement over outright performance, as it delivers 162 kW in a beautifully finished package that feels more upmarket than most rivals in the midsize SUV segment.
Q: How powerful is the Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI engine?
The Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI produces 162 kW from its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, paired with 4Motion all-wheel drive to provide solid performance and decent traction across various road conditions.
Q: What are the best features of the Tiguan R-Line?
The Tiguan R-Line's standout features include Vienna leather seats, a digital instrument cluster, Matrix LED headlamps, 20-inch alloy wheels, and the comprehensive IQ Drive safety package with adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking.
Q: How does the Tiguan compare to other midsize SUVs in South Africa?
The Tiguan stands out in South Africa's midsize SUV market through its premium interior quality and refined driving experience, though it commands a price premium over competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson while offering similar space and performance.
Should You Buy It?
The Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TSI 162 kW 4Motion R-Line is a compelling choice if you can stomach the R859,400 starting price. This is premium SUV territory where build quality, interior refinement, and that unmistakably solid German feel justify the premium over rivals. The 162 kW output provides adequate performance, while the 4Motion system adds confidence in all conditions. However, at over R900,000 with desirable options, you're paying serious money for what remains a midsize family SUV. If budget allows and you value quality over outright bang for buck, the Tiguan R-Line delivers a genuinely premium experience that feels like it belongs in a more expensive class.
