The benchmark model of the market that sets the standards of the C-SUV segment, the Volkswagen Tiguan, has hit the roads with its third generation. Unlike the old generation known for its sharp and angular lines, the new Tiguan has spent more time in the wind tunnel, gaining a rounder, more muscular design that nods to the electric ID series. Looking at the vehicle from the outside, you see the evolution of Volkswagen's risk-free yet incredibly prestigious design language. Greeting a high-end client whom you will show detached villa projects in Silivri with this car directly conveys a message of both trust and quality.
Under the mechanical hood operates the 1.5-liter eTSI mild-hybrid engine and 7-speed DSG transmission duo. As a former service professional, it's wonderful to see how Volkswagen has turned this DSG transmission into a smooth-running watch over the years. The 48V electric starter generator has completely ironed out microscopic shudders during takeoffs. 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque propel the car from 0 to 100 in 9.1 seconds. It might not pin you to the seat in terms of performance, but gliding along at around 5.5 liters during highway drives by shutting down 2 cylinders thanks to ACT (Active Cylinder Technology) is simply immense.
Stepping into the cabin, digitalization has reached its peak. With the gear selector moved behind the steering wheel, the center console is completely freed up, replaced by a stylish rotary knob with an OLED screen that adjusts volume and driving modes. The massive 12.9-inch screen in the center (15 inches optional) operates at tablet speed. Seat ergonomics are flawless, and material quality is above class standards. The massive trunk volume that has reached 652 liters with the new generation is large enough to swallow all kinds of equipment and giant banners in the real estate business.
In driving dynamics, the Tiguan is the dictionary definition of that famous German engineering word "balance." With the new DCC Pro (twin-valve adaptive suspension) option, the car both glides in comfort and incredibly suppresses body roll in corners. Steering precision is fantastic. However, insulation is where the new Tiguan has truly leveled up; thanks to acoustic windows and improved seals, it offers a silence inside the cabin that rivals D-SUVs even at 130 km/h.
Overall, the new Volkswagen Tiguan is a machine that fully meets the quality, interior volume, comfort, and technology expectations of an SUV without resorting to wild fantasies. Even though it pushes its price tag a bit closer to the premium level with every update, it will continue to protect the throne of its segment with that solid door sound, its guarantee of maintaining second-hand value, and the undeniable quality it offers.
