The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is a compact crossover that is all about business. The Volkswagen Tiguan has been with us since 2009 and it received a facelift for the 2012 model year. This 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is one of the few VWs that are still assembled in Wolfsburg, Germany. It has a fuel efficient yet powerful 2.0L turbocharged motor (200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque). It has a capable 4Motion all wheel drive system and versatile interior. However, the SE trim level does not have too many luxurious or convenience features. An odd omission is the lack of Satellite radio.
All the seat have manual adjustments and this is a good thing, since it saves weight and complexity. EPA rates the Tiguan 4Motion with the 6-speed automatic transmission at 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. However, I managed an excellent 27.2 MPG combined after a 25 mile loop of mixed city and highway driving. The engine has plenty of low end power, so acceleration does not require much effort. However, power deliver is a little peaky. There is a tiny delay, and then you get hit with all the turbocharged power. Once again, I would opt for the 6-speed manual transmission if I had a choice.
The interior is ergonomically correct, yet minimalist. All controls are within reach and easy to use, although flipping through the pages of the center information display and reseting various functions could be made more intuitive. The eight circular air vents are a bit too much as well.
The as tested price of this Tiguan SE 4Motion was $29,815 and this relatively high price leaves this little crossover vulnerable to a lot of strong competition.
Check out this fun and informative TFLcar off-road mashup including the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan.
