Last Update on : February 29, 2008
VW takes on RAV4 with new baby 4WD
.jpg) Volkswagen is pitching itself into Australia's fiercely contested compact-4WD with its new Golf-based Tiguan.
The Tiguan is the German brand's first ever baby off-roader, and will be sharply priced to take on the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail and Subaru Forester.
VW Australia gave the Tiguan its local debut at the 2008 Melbourne motor show, announcing sharp pricing that starts at $33,990 for the 125kW 2.0-litre petrol model (125TSI).
The base model launches in May and will be followed in September by a $35,990 diesel (103kW) and $42,990 turbocharged petrol (147kW). An auto transmission is a $2300 option for the entry-level and mid-spec models, and standard on the turbo petrol that uses the engine from the Golf GTI hot-hatch.
Volkswagen Australia spokesman Jon Dawe says the company can't wait to launch the Tiguan locally in May.
"We don't have a competitor in the compact-4WD segment so it's a crucial vehicle for us," says Dawe.
VW says it will have more ambitious sales hopes for 2009 for the Tiguan, which is 4.43-metres long (about 230mm longer than a Golf).
"We're pretty conservative at this stage," says Dawe. "We've got our allocation sorted for this year which is a pretty small volume.
"But next year we will have a full allocation and potentially we think this vehicle can be very competitive for us."
Tiguans will be well equipped in Australia. All models will have standard safety features including stability control, six airbags, and a range of electronic braking aids. The new VW also boasts a maximum five-star occupant crash rating from Euro NCAP.
The base model includes standard comfort features such as multi-function steering wheel, trip computer, cruise control and heated electric wing mirrors.
The range-topping 147TSi Tiguan adds more features as standard, including 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers and sports seats.
Options for all models include panoramic sunroof, satellite navigation, premium audio system, bi-xenon headlights, and leather upholster.
For customers who want to take their Tiguans off road, an optional 'Off-Road Technology' pack introduces a switch that can be pressed to engage a variety of electronic aids to help progress over tricky terrain.
The aids include hill-descent control, less sensitive throttle response (to avoid spinning wheels for better traction), and reconfigured anti-lock brakes better suited for slippery surfaces.
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