Bearing in mind that consumers generally “run away” from the base versions, the Life version assumes special importance within the successful range. Volkswagen Tiguan.
Intermediate version between the simpler “Tiguan” variant and the high-end “R-Line”, when combined with the 2.0 TDI in the 122hp variant with six-speed manual transmission, the Life level presents itself as a very balanced proposal .
However, taking into account the dimensions of the German SUV and its familiar aptitude, isn't the 122 hp that declares something “short”? To find out, we put him to the test.
Simply Tiguan
Both on the outside and inside, the Tiguan remains true to its sobriety, and in my opinion this should pay positive dividends in the future.
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After all, the more “classic” and sober shapes tend to age better, which is a factor that could influence the future recovery value of the German SUV, something that happens with other Volkswagen proposals.
Robustness is a constant on board the Tiguan.
When it comes to themes like space or robustness of assembly and quality of materials, I echo Fernando's words when he tested the cheapest Tiguan you can buy: despite originally being released in 2016, the Tiguan remains a of the segment references in this chapter.
And the engine, is it right?
Well, if stopped, the Tiguan tested by Fernando and the one I've tested are practically the same, as soon as we “go key” the differences quickly become evident.
For starters, the sound. Despite the cabin being well insulated, the typical chatter of Diesel engines (which I don't even dislike, as you may know if you've read this article) ends up making itself felt and reminds us that up ahead lives a 2.0 TDI and not a 1.5 TSI.
Already underway, it is the response of the two engines that separates these Tiguans. Is that if in the case of the gasoline variant the 130 hp seemed a little “fair”, in the Diesel, curiously, the lowest 122 hp seem to be enough.
Of course, the performances aren't ballistic (nor were they supposed to be), but thanks to the increased torque — 320 Nm against 220 Nm — which is available as early as 1600 rpm and up to 2500 rpm, we can practice relaxed driving without having to resort in excess to the well-scaled and smooth six-ratio manual gearbox.
Even with four people on board and (a lot) of cargo, the 2.0 TDI never refused, always responding with good performance (taking into account the weight of the set and the power of the engine, of course) and, above all, moderate consumption.
In normal driving, they always traveled around 5 to 5.5 l/100 km and when I decided to take the Tiguan to the “lands of Guilherme” (aka, Alentejo) I focused on more economical driving (no pastry, but sticking to the limits of speed of our nationals) I reached averages of… 3.8 l/100 km!
Good ground clearance and higher profile tires give the Tiguan a pleasant versatility.
it's german but it looks french
In the dynamic chapter, this Tiguan is proof that smaller wheels and higher profile tires also have their charms.
As Fernando mentioned, when he tested the other Tiguan with 17” wheels, in this combination the German SUV has a tread and a level of comfort that seems… French. Despite that, its origins say “present” whenever the curves arrive. Without being exhilarating, Tiguan is always competent, predictable and secure.
In these situations the Tiguan has good control over the body's movements and a precise and fast steering. Less positive in these situations is the lack of greater lateral support offered by the simple (but comfortable) seats that equip the Life version.
Is the car right for me?
Well built, spacious and with a sober look, the Volkswagen Tiguan presents itself in this Life variant with the 122 hp 2.0 TDI engine and manual gearbox as one of the most balanced proposals in the segment.
The supply of equipment is already quite reasonable (everything we normally need is there, including all the electronic “guardian angels”) and the engine allows for a relaxed and, above all, economical use.
Are there SUVs with diesel engines and with greater performance? There are even the Tiguan with versions of 150 hp and 200 hp of this engine.
Furthermore, due to our taxation, this Diesel option is now facing new types of competitors, namely, the Tiguan eHybrid (plug-in hybrid). Despite still being around 1500-2000 euros more expensive, it offers more than double the power (245 hp) and 50 km of electric autonomy — the potential for consumption even lower than Diesel is very real… just charge the battery frequently.
However, for those who easily accumulate many kilometers, without this implying an “assault” to the wallet, this Volkswagen Tiguan Life 2.0 TDI of 122 hp may well be the ideal proposal.