Volkswagen will launch a second-generation Tiguan in early
2015 – seven years after the small crossover first turned a wheel on UK roads.
Our exclusive images show how the newcomer could look as it aims to mix the
universal appeal of the Golf with the added versatility of an SUV.
As with the latest Golf MkVII, the new Tiguan will be based
on VW’s modular MQB architecture. The versatility of this platform will allow
the company to increase the model’s length from today’s 4,426mm, and in turn
offer more boot space than the current car – which already trumps the Skoda
Yeti with a 470-liter capacity.
Volkswagen will
launch a second-generation Tiguan in early 2015
The wheelbase will also grow to around 2,700mm, giving extra
interior room, particularly in the back. And the new Tiguan will remain one of
the most practical cars in its class by continuing with sliding rear seats.
But it will remain a strict five-seater – leaving space for
a larger MQB-based SUV, previewed by the VW CrossBlue concept, due in 2016 and
with six or seven-seat layouts.
Chunky look for
the New Tiguan in early 2015
Our exclusive images show that the new Tiguan’s looks will
be heavily influenced by the CrossBlue. Dominating the nose are integrated
chrome bars running horizontally right across the headlights and grille.
The chunky front bumper shown here will feature on the
sporty, road-biased version of the car. However, VW will also offer a Tiguan
Escape, without the front protection for better approach angles when
off-roading, but with more prominent cladding around the sills and wheel arches.
The MQB platform will allow larger wheels to be fitted – up
to 19 inches – but the designers will carry over the characterful, squared-off
wheelarches, which will become a signature feature of all new VW SUVs. At the
rear are LED tail-lights, a neat, integrated spoiler and, on top-spec R-Line
models, twin exhausts.
As with the latest
Golf MkVII, the new Tiguan will be based on VW’s modular MQB architecture
The Tiguan will retain its high driving position, although
the chassis will be tuned to feel as car-like as possible, and will include the
option of VW’s DCC adaptive dampers. Also on the menu is a choice of two and
four-wheel drive – the latter with the new Haldex 5 system that’s graced the
new Skoda Octavia 4x4, VW Golf R and Audi S3.
Engine options will be similar to the Golf’s, with 1.2, 1.4
and 2.0-liter TSI petrols, plus 1.6 and 2.0-liter TDI diesels. But efficiency
will be improved – stop-start will be offered, the MQB platform will help to reduce
the Tiguan’s weight to less than 1,500kg and there’s potential for VW to make
its new 10-speed DSG auto available.
A Tiguan BlueMotion is likely, with 80mpg-plus, as is a
plug-in hybrid returning over 100mpg. And at the other end of the scale, a hot Tiguan
R could be offered, but VW will monitor sales of the Nissan Qashqai Nismo and
Audi RS Q3 before deciding if the demand is there.
