Car Review: 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
The VW Tiguan Pole-Vaults Volkswagen into the New CUV Market
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a sportier, more luxurious version of the new CUVs on the market today. Learn more about VW's latest triumph arriving at SUV dealers in June 08.
The Volkswagen Tiguan offers VW lovers a way to jump into the new high-end CUV market (compact SUV) with both hands firmly on the wheel. The sporty SUV is available at Volkswagen dealers everywhere beginning in June. The new SUV combines rugged appeal with the sleek lines appreciated by VW lovers. The estimated annual fuel cost is $2,142 and the mileage is purported to be 22 city/28 highway.
The Three Types of VW Tiguans Available
There will be three levels of VW Tiguans available to buy at Volkswagen dealerships. Overall, the new CUV promises to be an upgrade from similar compact SUVs on the market today. Volkswagen SUV dealerships will offer three models of the new Tiguan:
VW Tiguan Base S Model
The base S model is the economically priced, pared-down version of the new SUV. Volkswagen dealers will offer this level of the new CUV starting at $23,200. Front-wheel drive, air conditioning, power locks and windows and anti-lock brakes are standard on this level of the new SUV. Upgrades available for this level of the VW Tiguan include all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission system for an additional $1,100. In addition, Volkswagen dealers will also offer optional rear-seat air bags and a tow hitch.
Volkswagen Tiguan Mid-Range SE Model
The SE is the new CUV’s mid-range model. Volkswagen SUV dealerships will offer the this model of the Tiguan beginning at $26,925. This version of the Volkswagen Tiguan comes with the automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system. An oversized “panoramic” sunroof is optional with this new CUV and with the high-level SEL for an additional $1,300.
VW Tiguan High-End SEL
The SEL is the top of the line version of the new SUV and Volkswagen dealers will offer this VW Tiguan starting at $30,990. This high-end CUV is loaded with all of the extras that come with the SE model plus a 600-watt Dynaudio 10-speaker sound system. In addition, the new SUV has oversized 18-inch tires, leather seats and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The active Bi-Xenon headlights comes with an adaptive front lighting system that turns headlamps 15 degrees in the direction the new CUV is going on the highway.
Technology Package Upgrades New SUV
The new CUVs can be further upgraded with a technology package available at Volkswagen SUV dealerships. The upgrades include a rear back-up camera and a touch-screen radio navigation system with a 30GB hard disk to manage the music, camera, navigation and radio. The tech package can be installed in the SE and SEL for an additional $1,950.
Volkswagen Tiguan Competitors
Competitors of the Volkswagen Tiguan include other compact SUVs like the less expensive Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV-4, both in the low $20,000 price range. Neither vehicle has the “wow” factor of the new Volkswagen nor has the legendary brand loyalty of a VW, so June sales, when the CUV is let loose by Volkswagen SUV dealers, should be brisk.
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