Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI 140 CV DSG 4M, road test (Engine and performance)

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One of the SUVs that has been on the market the longest is the Volkswagen Tiguan, one of the first to arrive before practically every brand had a compact crossover in its lineup. Being the first doesn’t mean it’s outdated, far from it: the recent facelifts have suited it really well, and it has plenty of arguments to face current competition.

The version we tested is the 2.0 TDI with 140 CV, paired with the DSG7 dual-clutch automatic gearbox and the 4 Motion all-wheel drive system. In other words, we have a Tiguan with everything: a powerful diesel engine, all-wheel drive and one of the best gearboxes in terms of responsiveness, speed and smoothness.

We kick off this first part, where we focus on the engine, handling, consumption and off-road behaviour of the Tiguan. A model that starts at 24,435 euros with a 110 CV diesel engine and front-wheel drive.

Engine and performance

The two-litre TDI engine that produces 140 CV is an old acquaintance within the Volkswagen group; countless models use this engine in either its 140 CV or 170 CV version. It responds from 2,000 rpm up to more than 4,000 rpm, delivering adequate and sufficient pull for most uses.

For those seeking a more radical response, the 170 CV version will be the ideal choice, but for those who want calm at the wheel, sufficient power and moderate consumption, it is a good option. We must not forget the Tiguan’s weight, which is around 1,764 kg. It is not among the heaviest SUVs, but it is noticeable with an engine of this output.

Now that we have discussed the engine and its performance, we need to talk about the gearbox. It is the seven-speed DSG. Its behaviour is impeccable, both in speed and in the smoothness of gear changes; in addition, with paddle shifters we have control from the steering wheel itself.

We have noticed some improvements in the gearbox, now when we lift off the accelerator the car switches to “coasting” mode, as indicated by the on-board computer display, and it seems to roll in neutral, but without consuming a single litre of fuel. When we lightly press the brake, the car detects that movement and re-engages a gear, downshifting if necessary.

The gearbox also has the Sport mode, which keeps the engine speed higher for a quicker response and, at the same time, holds the Tiguan back much more firmly on descents. It is ideal for going down a mountain pass, or climbing one and always having the assurance of a good response when pressing the accelerator.

Handling

During the Tiguan test, we saw it on several different types of terrain. What surprised us most was a mountain pass, where its agile handling (limited only by the mixed-use tyres) moved away from the typical behaviour of an SUV, thanks above all to a firm suspension setup.

On the other hand, the on-board comfort is high, thanks to good soundproofing and interior comfort. We must also mention the mixed-use tyres, which came as standard on this more rugged trim with all-wheel drive. It is curious to find mixed-use tyres on an SUV; although they reduce on-road handling, they gain grip off-road.

Off-road behaviour

The unit we tested was equipped with the 4 Motion all-wheel drive system from Volkswagen. The system is fully automatic: when it detects loss of grip at any wheel, it sends more torque to the remaining ones to get over the obstacle. To the system we must add the mixed-use tyres, which in some cases can be decisive in getting out of any tight spot.

The downside is the ground clearance, which is not especially generous, but sufficient for driving calmly on tracks, forest roads or snowy areas. During the test we checked the drive system on sand, mud and snow, and the result was very satisfactory, especially on snow, where it performed remarkably well.

Consumption

On the motorway during the typical 1,200 km route, the average consumption was around 6.2 litres per 100 km. It is a normal figure, considering that the drive system is automatic and the 4×2 mode cannot be selected manually.

Consumption on country roads rises slightly, to 6.6 litres per 100 km, while in town the figure climbs to 8 litres per 100 km. One element that helps consumption in town is the Start&Stop system, which acts quickly and, being paired with the automatic gearbox, switches the engine off as soon as we lift off the accelerator.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira
(Locations: Baiona, Sierra de Madrid, Valença-Portugal)

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverVolkswagen Tiguan14 versions · from 36,150 €