Japanese Specification: Front-Wheel Drive Only

The Volkswagen compact SUV, the Tiguan, has been redesigned and went on sale in Japan on January 17, 2017.

The Tiguan is equipped with a 1.4-liter engine in a body measuring 4,500mm in length. Utilizing its 1,675mm height and 2,675mm wheelbase, it offers a packaging that expands upon the Golf's functionality.

Japanese specifications are front-wheel drive only. The 110kW (150ps) and 250Nm engine is paired with a 6-speed DSG (dual-clutch) transmission.

Notably, the 70mm increase in overall length compared to the previous model is almost entirely due to an extended wheelbase.

Volkswagen claims this has significantly increased interior space.

According to specifications, interior length has increased by 26mm, and rear legroom by 29mm. Furthermore, the rear seats are split 60/40 and can slide forward or backward by 180mm, demonstrating thoughtful functionality.

The width has increased by 30mm to 1,840mm compared to the previous model.

The height has decreased by 35mm to 1,675mm compared to the previous model.

Volkswagen Group Japan, the importer, is promoting the Tiguan as a "connected SUV," highlighting its enhanced infotainment features as a key selling point.

"Connected" refers to the improved infotainment system that enables internet connectivity.

The internet connection enhances navigation search functions, making it easier to find facilities like gas stations, which is a notable improvement.

Advanced safety technologies are also abundant. Lane Keep Assist and Traffic Jam Assist are standard on higher trim levels. It can be considered a family car for the new era.

The wide range of optional packages for safety and comfort features will also be a significant draw for potential buyers.

The driving feel is surprisingly agile.

A Rear Seat Like a Limousine

The powertrain for Volkswagen's new Tiguan is the familiar 1,394cc 4-cylinder gasoline engine found in the Golf and the...Passat...Passat.

It produces a maximum output of 110kW (150ps) at 5,000-6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 250Nm at 1,500-3,500rpm. As these figures suggest, its initial acceleration is impressively strong.

With just a light press of the accelerator, the Tiguan, a vehicle slightly larger than the Golf, launches forward with surprising lightness.

Those who can handle the accelerator pedal with care can enjoy the Tiguan's lively performance using only around 2,000rpm.

When accelerating hard, there's a slight hesitation just before 3,000rpm. Is this turbo lag? It's a good car when driven with a gentle touch.

The LED rear combination lamps are standard on the TSI Highline and above.

The steering wheel is also set to be light (perhaps a Volkswagen preference). While I had reservations about this in the Passat, in the Tiguan it contributes to the agile feel, which I found pleasing.

The model I drove was the "Highline" with 235/55 profile tires on 18-inch rims, but the ride comfort was by no means bad. I became curious about the "Comfortline" with 215/65R17 tires.

The interior feels spacious. Sliding the rear seats all the way forward provides a luggage capacity of 615 liters, while sliding them back creates a space akin to a limousine. The rear seats are also equipped with a reclining function.

The equipment is surprisingly abundant.

Scores High as a Family Car

The new Volkswagen Tiguan lineup consists of three models: the "TSI Comfortline" (3,600,000 yen), the "TSI Highline" (4,332,000 yen), and the "TSI R-Line" (4,632,000 yen).

The engine is the same across all models, and the body size is also nearly identical. The R-Line has a slightly wider body of 1,860mm due to its fender flares.

The tire sizes increase by one inch in rim diameter with each step up. The R-Line features 19-inch wheels. Fuel economy is officially rated at 16.3 km/ℓ for all models (JC08 mode).

The lineup structure is well-designed, allowing consumers to choose the optimal model based on their preferences and budget.

The "Car-Net" infotainment system, which enables WiFi connectivity and is marketed as a "connected SUV," includes telematics functions and is standard on higher trim levels.

Panoramic Sliding Sunroof

If you don't feel the need for features like LED headlights, the "TSI Comfortline" is a good choice. Essential equipment can also be added as options. This is part of the Tiguan's appeal.

Advanced safety features such as "Lane Keep Assist," "Lane Change Assist," "Traffic Jam Assist," and "Rear Traffic Alert" are available as package options.

Personally, I would want the Smart Entry system and find the power tailgate convenient. I also like the panoramic sliding sunroof.

It would be ideal if these were available as individual options for the TSI Comfortline as well. Perhaps delivery times make this difficult?

In any case, the new Tiguan scores highly as a family car. By significantly building on the strengths of the Golf, it is sure to be popular.

Volkswagen Tiguan TSI Comfortline
Volkswagen Tiguan TSI Highline
Volkswagen Tiguan TSI R-Line
Body Dimensions | Length 4,500 x Width 1,840 x Height 1,675 mm
(R-Line) Length 4,500 x Width 1,860 x Height 1,675 mm
Wheelbase | 2,675 mm
Weight | 1,540 kg
Engine | 1,394 cc Inline 4-cylinder Turbo
Max Output | 110 kW (150 ps) / 5,000-6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) / 1,500-3,500 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed AT (6DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension | 4-Link
Tires Front/Rear | (Comfortline) 215/65R17 (Highline) 235/55R18 (R-Line) 255/45R19
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 16.3 km/ℓ
Price | (Comfortline) 3,600,000 yen (Highline) 4,332,000 yen (R-Line) 4,632,000 yen