After a massive overhaul just three years ago (revamped power train, more cabin space and a standard third-row seat), the VW Tiguan remains largely as is for 2021. Under the hood sits a turbo, intercooled and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine putting out 184 horsepower @ 4360 rpm and 221 pounds-feet of torque @ 1600 rpm. Quick off the mark, responding with agility in any situation, this second-generation SUV is equipped with a flawless 8-speed auto gearbox. Ensconced on the unitary body, available as a front-wheel or all-wheel- drive version, is a robust and reliable strut-type front and a multilink rear suspension. The electro-mechanical speed-sensitive power steering is quick and communicative to result in a positive on-center response.
Horizontal halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights surround the centered VW crest on the grille. The SE R-Line Black version, our test drive for the week, fetches you roof rails, bumpers and headliners (all in black, of course!) as well as exclusive R-Line badging inside and out. The gorgeous cabin exemplifies European styling and flair with a simple but elegant instrument panel of large analog speedometer and tachometer gauges and a centered driver information center.
Fold flat the 40/20/40 rear seat, which slides forward 7 inches, and the trunk area becomes generous. Offered standard in FWD models only, the two-passenger 50/50 third- row folds down. Passenger volume is praiseworthy at 123.9 cubic feet. Niceties include an 8-inch touch screen for audio, nav and phone controls, panoramic sun roof, dual auto a/c with second-row air vents, three-spoke leather tilt/telescopic steering column, 10-way power driver and six-way front-passenger manual seats, and a power lift gate.
Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability with anti-slip regulation and engine brake assist, traction control, lane departure and forward collision warning, blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, park distance control, three-point seatbelts for all positions, adaptive cruise control, rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.
The Tiguan sticks out in the swarming compact SUV field, thanks to a sprightly engine, exceptional handling and balance, everyday practicality and decent fuel economy. As for its odd-sounding name, look at it as a boon for once. It’s German for ‘tiger’ and ‘iguana.’
TIGUAN SE R-LINE BLACK (FWD)
Tires: 255/40R20 H, all-season
Wheelbase: 109.8 inches
Length: 185.1 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 66.3 inches
Weight: 3,735 pounds
Fuel capacity: 15.9 gallons
City: 23 mpg
Highway: 29 mpg
Base price: $30,595
Price as tested: $31,790
Web site: www.vw.com
Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.