New for 2016

Changes for 2016 include a lower MSRP than last year’s model, not to mention upgraded technology in VW’s MIB II infotainment system and Car-Net service, in addition to some premium features inside and out.

One Smart Crossover

If you’re looking for a vehicle with utility, good gas mileage, and plenty of space to haul passengers or cargo, look no further than the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan. As a strong mix of car and SUV, this crossover sports the parking footprint of a smaller sedan, while offering the cargo capacity of an SUV. 

Powertrain and Performance

The 2016 Tiguan comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that offers plenty of power to get wherever you’re going with whatever you’re hauling. 200 horsepower, to be precise, with the ability to tow up to 2,200 pounds (not something a lot of small hatchbacks can say). Its six-speed automatic transmission and multi-link rear suspension team up for a nice, smooth ride, and VW’s available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive contributes to that feeling.

Great for slippery conditions, 4MOTION® delivers most of the vehicle’s torque to the forward wheels for better fuel economy, sending more to the rear wheels if it detects they’re losing traction.

In terms of fuel economy, the Tiguan’s much the same as last year, offering an EPA-estimated 21 city/26 highway mpg (with 1 mile less in the city category for the AWD models).*

Features and Trims

Starting at $24,890, the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan comes as a five-door, five-passenger crossover with four trims levels, (all of which are available with 4MOTION® all-wheel drive).**

Even at the base level, the Tiguan S comes with a variety of advanced features found only in the higher trim levels of other crossovers, such as keyless access with push-button start, a rearview camera system, and heated front seats and windshield washer nozzle (perfect for those cold early mornings).

In addition to the standard features of the S, the SE bumps things up a notch with Bi-Xenon headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and Discover Media touchscreen navigation. After all, you can get navigation on your phone, but it’s so much more convenient when it comes through your vehicle, isn’t it?

Taking things one step further, you’ll find that comfort is kind at the Tiguan’s highest level of trim: SEL. Not only does this trim level cushion you with real leather surfaces, you’ll be just the right temperature with your dual-zone climate control. Add in the Fender® premium audio system, and you may not want to leave the driver’s seat.

The Tiguan’s fourth trim is for the sportier amongst us. Its R-Line body kit makes the vehicle look more aggressive; it comes with 19” Mallory wheels, making it sit taller than anything but the SEL; and a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat ensures you’ll be sitting just how you want before you put the pedal to the metal.

Design

Stylistically, the Tiguan offers clean lines that eschews the typical boxiness of most SUV exteriors.  Its front is crisply defined and establishes it as a modern VW vehicle. On the inside, the Tiguan demonstrates its creators’ attention to detail. Plastics are soft to the touch and the cloth seats are comfortable.

Speaking of those seats, they’re the key to the Tiguan’s flexibility. With a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat, you’ll nearly endless combinations to accommodate whatever you’re hauling (and an available fold-flat passenger seat only sweetens the deal). With rear seat folded, you’ll have 56.1 cubic feet to play with, which is plenty of groceries, golf bags, and more.

Safety

With a low beltline and a tall seating position, outward visibility is stellar for a Tiguan driver. Combine that with standard hill-hold control, an electronic parking brake (not to mention optional rear side thorax airbags and headlights that swivel as you go through turns in the road), and you’ll find there’s plenty to like about the Tiguan when it comes to safety. Like its four star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, for example, or its “Good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Bottom Line

The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan is a solid vehicle for those looking for a compact crossover. It offers flexible cargo space, a comfortable ride, and plenty of features for the discerning driver.

For more information, be sure to call, contact us online, or stop by and see us at 3Birds Template.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

**Starting MSRP. Prices exclude transportation, taxes, title, other options and dealer charges.

Image: Volkswagen