In today’s market, there is a host of SUVs ranging from the full-size carry-all-the-family-towing-rig down to the compact SUV segment where vehicles have grown in size to meet the needs of an active lifestyle. It is the compact crossover SUV segment that is one of the most competitive as young families want the versatility of an SUV, while empty nesters are looking for something functionally youthful in design. It is in this segment that the Volkswagen Tiguan has resided for the last six years in a very favorable style that has not changed much other than to improve. The 2014 Tiguan still maintains the same basic compact size with nicely rounded corners that readily identify with the larger Touareg on a smaller scale. As others in the segment continue to grow, the Tiguan’s smaller statue does provide a more responsive driving experience, particularly the new R-Line trim level that brings in the sport concept with suspension modifications.
On the exterior of the 2014 Tiguan SEL, there are is the split grille that flows from the sweeping headlights and has the large VW emblem centered. There are also fog lamps up front, color matched power side mirrors that are heated, and up top there are roof rails to go along with the panoramic power sunroof. The Tiguan also has keyless entry and a selection of available wheels such as the 18-inch alloy wheels on the review vehicle that were wrapped in all-season tires.
The standard engine on the 2014 Tiguan is the 2.0L turbocharged inline 4 cylinder that produces 200 horsepower on premium fuel, and is backed up by the standard 6-speed automatic that does have a manual shift mode. If it really has to be a six speed manual gear box, only the base S model is available to meet that need. The 2014 Tiguan SEL review vehicle is also equipped with the Volkswagen AWD system 4Motion, and in this configuration, the EPA provides a fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, as well as 23 mpg combined.
On the interior, the 2014 Tiguan has added some features and upgraded others. For the SEL trim level, there are leatherette seating surfaces that are heated for the partial power front seats, and the rear seat is a folding 40/20/40 arrangement that will also adjust fore and aft. Along with power windows, cruise control and the dual-zone climate controls, there is an available navigation system, satellite radio, a rockin’ Fender audio system that can be controlled from the center stack touch screen, and a rear view camera. The VW Car-Net system is a subscription based application for emergency services that is also available.
Driving the 2014 VW Tiguan provides a responsive driver experience in part due to the smaller size, while the ride is smooth and remarkably quiet for a small vehicle which is enhances the Fender audio system on a long run across IH10. The 4Motion AWD is transparent under normal use as the 2.OL engine provides a smooth transition across the power band. All new 2014 Tiguans come with Volkswagen’s 3-year/36,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance program for services such as oil changes and tire rotation.
Pricing Notes on the 2014 VW Tiguan SEL 4Motion
The starting point on a base 2014 VW Tiguan S is just under $24,000 MSRP, the five trim levels bringing in additional standard features and available options. The review 2014 Tiguan SEL starts at $34,950 as equipped, with minimal options such as the 6-speed automatic, beige leatherette interior and the Wild Cherry metallic exterior color that were actually no charge at this trim level. Including the $865 destination charge, the MSRP is at $35,819 as reviewed.
For more information on the 2014 VW Tiguan SEL 4Motion, visit your local Volkswagen dealer or online atwww.vw.com
