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2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 162TSI Review: First Drive

 

Good points

  • Matches Golf GTI’s performance
  • Sophisticated, practical interior
  • R-Line beefs up exterior nicely

Needs work

  • Key options add to the cost
  • Auto’s ‘normal’ mode is lethargic
  • Could sound sportier!
2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 162TSI R-Line front end

When the new Volkswagen Tiguan launched late last year, the range was largely complete – apart from the top end. It was missing a version that Volkswagen generally does well: a halo performance model – think Golf GTI. Well, as deliveries of new Tiguans with mainstream petrol and diesel engines were underway, Volkswagen were preparing a faster model for Australian buyers – and this is it. The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 162TSI pairs the impressive dynamics and great packaging of the existing car to the Golf GTI’s willing 162kW two-litre turbo engine.

So what does combining a Tiguan body with a Golf GTI engine create? Well, it’s not quite a Tiguan GTI – though it comes close. The Tiguan 162TSI is pretty swift: it’ll match the Golf GTI’s 6.5 second 0–100km/h time – though it’s more refined, quieter, and more comfortable than the Golf. The Tiguan’s practical SUV nature is still the overriding characteristic of the car – but the presence of a muscular turbo engine and genuinely impressive handling dynamics mean the 162TSI is actually quite a fun car to drive.

And that’s the whole point of this car: to blend a bit of the spirit of the Golf GTI with the stuff we already liked about the new Tiguan – like the class-leading roominess and the high-quality interior. What you end up with is a do-it-all family car. The Tiguan 162TSI will take five people in comfort, it gives you a huge boot, all while being ready to tear up a country road at a moment’s notice. In 2017, that’s about as relevant as a car gets.

So while we already thought the Tiguan was the medium SUV to have, we think that the 162TSI is the Tiguan you should buy.

2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 162TSI R-Line rear end

Budget Direct
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Key specs (as tested)

Engine
Capacity
2.0L
Cylinders
4
Induction
Single turbocharger
Power
162kW at 6,200rpm
Torque
350Nm between 1,500–4,400rpm
Configuration
Double clutch
Power to weight ratio
99kW/tonne
Fuel
Fuel type
Petrol
Fuel capacity
60 litres
Consumption
8.1L/100km
Average Range
741 kilometres
Drivetrain
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All wheel drive
Engine configuration
In-line
Gears
7
Dimensions
Length
4.49 metres
Width
1.84 metres
Height
1.66 metres
Unoccupied weight
1,637 kilograms
Cargo space seats up
615 litres
Cargo seats down
1,655 litres

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The estimate provided does not take into account your personal circumstances but is intended to give a general indication of the cost of insurance, in order to obtain a complete quote, please visit www.budgetdirect.com.au. Estimate includes 15%^ online discount.
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Budget Direct Insurance arranged by Auto & General Services Pty Ltd ACN 003 617 909(AGS) AFSL 241 411, for and on behalf of the insurer, Auto & General Insurance Company Limited(ABN 42 111 586 353, AFSL 285 571).Because we don’t know your financial needs, we can’t advise you if this insurance will suit you. You should consider your needs and the Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision to buy insurance. Terms and conditions apply.

Indicative quote based on assumptions including postcode , 40 year old male with no offences, licence suspensions or claims in the last 5 years, a NCD Rating 1 and no younger drivers listed. White car, driven up to 10,000kms a year, unfinanced, with no modifications, factory options and/or non-standard accessories, private use only and garaged at night.

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