ROUND THE BLOCK: 2009 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN SE 4MOTION
Categories: Round the Block
Written By: admin
THE DRIVER: Despite arriving late, the Tiguan comes ready to party. Its 2-liter turbo cranks out the turbo’d torque to hustle, ably abetted by a quick shifting six-speed automatic. This combination also returns quite respectable fuel economy; 22-23mpgs in mixed use, which excellent in light of the Tiguan’s swiftness.
Its composure is strictly Teutonic; firmly damped ride motions and low roll angles in the corners. What weighs against it (both literally and figuratively) is its high center of gravity—which gives it a tendency to pogo over concrete slab—and its mass, which—despite good steering feel and feedback—keep it from ever truly feeling responsive.
Perceived interior quality is excellent, and its layout and roominess are welcome in such a compact package. The optional Panoramic roof and next-gen nav system add to its premium cred, though both are pricy.
THE BROKER: That leads us inevitably to the Tiguan’s biggest issue: its price. The dollar’s weakness is playing havoc with Volkswagen’s ability to affordably bring us this fun small crossover, as it’s built in the Fatherland. It is thousands more than a Toyota RAV4 Limited or anything else one might think to compare it to. And currently (Fall ’08) it doesn’t lease that well either.
THE (ROCKY MOUNTAIN) MAN: That’s a shame, as this makes an excellent entry for Colorado residents, due to its turbocharged powertrain and athletic yet practical demeanor.
Price as tested: $33,165
