VW’s ‘baby 4x4’ is here

The Touareg’s baby brother is here at last! These are the first official images of Volkswagen’s new small 4x4 – the Tiguan

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Sam Hardy

05th July 2007

On sale in February, it will compete with Land Rover’s Freelander, Nissan’s latest X-Trail (driven here) and the forthcoming Ford X-MAX.

As you can see, the all-new model takes cues from the entire VW range, with its Passat-style front end, while classy tail-lights dominate the rear. The car’s sleek lines and chunky black plastic bumpers provide a mix of sportiness and off-road toughness.

At 4.4 metres long, 1.8m wide and 1.6m tall, the Tiguan is larger than the Touran MPV and, inside, there’s ample space for five. UK buyers will have a choice of two engines – a 139bhp 2.0-litre TDI turbodiesel and a 149bhp 1.4 TSI petrol.

A 168bhp 2.0-litre TDI unit will be available later next year, along with two more petrol powerplants, which are likely to be a 168bhp 1.4-litre TSI and a range-topping 197bhp 2.0-litre turbo from the Golf GTI.

All models come with 4MOTION four-wheel drive, giving decent ability off-road. But for those who really want to rough it, the German firm will offer a version with a modified front end, giving better protection for challenging terrain, and hill descent control. S, SE and Sport-trimmed models will be available, with all getting air-con as standard. Prices start at £19,000.