You’re all set. You got the spouse and the kid loaded and ready to go. The family vehicle is a brand new, right-sized 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. When you started off shopping for a new, more versatile car, you researched and inspected all the usual crossover suspects, namely the Toyota RAV4, Honda CRV, and Ford Escape. In the end, why the Tiguan?
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| The 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is right in so many ways: styling, performance, size, environmental considerations and equipment. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
Because you enjoy driving, first and foremost. There's nothing wrong with that. Too often, this critical element is ignored for other considerations such as fuel economy. Because you’ve done your homework, you are well aware that the Tiguan features one of the best 4-cylinder engines around.
2.0T FTW!
Volkswagen’s 200-hp 2.0T engine is a no-compromise powerplant. It will consume as little as 7.5L/100km on the highway, while providing impressive power on demand. This is not a typo. The engine is ripe for action and loves to move.
When equipped with Volkswagen’s proven 4MOTION AWD system, the Tiguan is automatically delivered with a six-speed autobox.
You’ve no qualms about this as the Tiptronic mode allows you to shift manually and should you be so inclined, you can drop the lever into “S” and really take advantage of the engine’s 207 lb-ft of torque. Throttle sharpens up and gears are held for maximum involved driving. You can and do have fun with the Tiguan.
A six-speed manual box is available with FWD models but you’ll be far too busy keeping both hands on the steering wheel as this compact crossover sticks to pavement like nobody’s business. You were impressed with the Kia Sportage when you were doing your dealer rounds for test-drives but you found its ride too jarring on city streets. Although the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is not the smoothest operator over uneven paved surfaces, its fully independent suspension has more give without sacrificing handling.
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| In “S” mode, the throttle sharpens up and gears are held for maximum involved driving. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Auto123.com) |
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