The new Volkswagen Tiguan really is new, even if it carries over the MQB platform (now upgraded to MQB Evo status) and its combustion engines from the old model. One of those engines is the familiar 150hp 2.0-litre TDI diesel tested here, which will power the entry-level Tiguans when they arrive in Ireland this March.
In the metal
The only way to tell this 2.0-litre TDI version of the new Tiguan apart from the part-electric e-Hybrid model is the lack of a flap for the electric charging socket on the front wheelarch - and the deletion of the e-Hybrid badge from the boot lid of course. Otherwise, this diesel and the e-Hybrid are twins.
Inside, with its combination of technology and high-quality finish, the new Tiguan's cabin scores highly. Comfort, fit and finish are just excellent, and the big new touchscreen (12.9 inches as standard, 15 inches optionally) is a revelation of clarity and simplicity in comparison to what has gone before. There's lots of storage space in the centre console and door bins, while the new driving mode/volume/cabin ambience rotary switch on the centre console is pleasingly tactile. Space in the back is excellent, and unlike the hybrid with its truncated boot volume, this diesel model deploys the full 652 litres.
The addition of ChatGPT software into the 'IDA' digital voice assistant is of debatable use. It's designed for entertainment and information rather than control of the vehicle, but it still gets foxed by anything other than very carefully constructed questions. It's not going to pass a Turing Test any time soon.
Driving it
Press the engine start button and twist the rotary column stalk to select D in the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox (there are no manual Tiguans anymore) and the 2.0-litre TDI engine fires up into a familiar chattering idle. You know it's a diesel all right, but the noise is well-contained and pleasantly muted. As odd as it might sound in an increasingly electric and emissions-conscious age, it also sounds very reassuring, as is the verging-on-1,000km range to empty readout. While diesel has fallen off its once 75 per cent of the market perch in Ireland, it still draws in a considerable number of customers, especially in this family SUV segment.
Out on the road, the 360Nm of torque feels sufficient, and while the 9.4-second 0-100km/h time isn't going to set anyone's hair alight, the diesel Tiguan feels entirely comfortable in its skin and very capable in all-round performance. Fuel economy is good too, as we easily averaged 5.5 litres per 100km on a twisty mountainous route.
Switch into Sport mode and the throttle response sharpens up, as does the steering (a little, only) and if you've specced your Tiguan - as our test car was - with the new DCC Pro adaptive damping system, then the handling perks up a little too. Volkswagen claims that these dampers, which use twin-valve technology to separate out the compression and rebound, can keep the body flat in corners without ruining the ride quality, but the Tiguan still leans a good deal when driven with enthusiasm.
That's not really an issue, as grip and traction are plentiful and if there's not much steering feel then at least it all seems pleasantly sure-footed. There's no getting away from the fact, though, that this is a 1,600kg car with most of that mass in the wrong place (high up) and an extra 60mm of length compared to the old Tiguan. It's big and feels every millimetre of it on tighter roads.
Of more importance to most will be the Tiguan's general sense of refinement and deportment when you're cruising. With that combo of comfort, quietness and economy this is going to be an epically good long-haul car.
What you get for your money
The new Tiguan arrives in Ireland with the 2.0-litre TDI 150hp Life model, using a DSG automatic gearbox and priced from €49,820 on the road. That makes it more expensive than the likes of the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage - the best sellers in this corner of the market - but the Tiguan hits back with standard kit including the 12.9-inch touchscreen, climate control, digital instruments, LED headlights, the IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT (which is being rolled out on phased basis), high-output 45-watt USB sockets, black roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels. Standard safety systems include lane change assist, emergency braking, lane departure warning, a rear-view camera and dynamic road sign recognition.
Buyers can upgrade to the Launch Edition for €50,020. It features a different alloy wheel design, tinted windows, memory park assist, keyless entry and the ‘easy open’ package for the tailgate.
Elegance models start from €58,802 and get 18-inch alloys, massaging front seats, ‘ArtVelours’ upholstery and heated windscreen washers among other items.
The top spec model for now is the R-Line costing from €59,875 and including 19-inch alloys, an R-Line body kit, heated sports front seats and more.
Summary
The diesel-engined Volkswagen Tiguan is just as it always was - big, spacious, stylish, refined and comfortable to drive. This is still a very well-rounded car with an exceptional interior and all the practicality that a growing family might need.
