2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Trendline Evaluation: Second Test of Midsize SUVs
2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Trendline: A Balanced yet Compact Medium SUV
The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Trendline offers a blend of style, practicality, and safety at an entry-level price point within the medium SUV segment. This compact vehicle comes equipped with a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 110 kW and 250 Nm torque. It is paired with a choice between a six-speed manual or DSG automatic transmission, providing decent fuel efficiency of around 6.3L/100km combined.
Standard features for the 2017 Tiguan Trendline include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto with an 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system, automatic headlights and wipers, cruise control, and LED tail-lights. Safety is also a priority, with the Tiguan coming standard with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Assist, fatigue detection, rear-view camera, semi-autonomous parking, and seven airbags. This results in a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
The interior of the Tiguan is spacious and well-equipped, with features like a split third-row seat (in some model years), synthetic leather upholstery, and heated rear seats on higher trims of the range. Driving aids are also plentiful, with active lane control, stability and traction control, active high beam headlights, and other driver assistance systems.
However, the 2017 Tiguan Trendline has some typical drawbacks compared to other medium SUVs. The base 1.4L turbo engine might feel underpowered, and only front-wheel drive is available, which can limit off-road capability and traction in adverse conditions. The Tiguan's 1.4L TSI engine is prone to carbon buildup, causing issues like rough idling, hesitation accelerating, power loss, and misfires. The timing chain tensioner is also a known weak point, with failure risks that can lead to engine damage and expensive repairs.
The base Trendline trim lacks some of the power-adjustable seats and memory functions found on higher trims or competing SUVs. Additionally, while well equipped for the entry-level, some rivals offer more powerful engines and additional features at similar or slightly higher prices.
In comparison to other medium SUVs, the Tiguan's engine is modest, with only front-wheel drive available, but it offers similar fuel efficiency. Safety ratings are comparable, but some rivals may offer better safety ratings. The interior and features vary, with rivals possibly offering more luxury or tech in base trims. Reliability is a concern, with known issues associated with the Tiguan's turbocharged engine. The price is mid-range, but some competitors offer more power or fewer engine issues at similar or slightly higher prices.
Overall, the 2017 Tiguan Trendline is a solid, safe, and practical medium SUV choice with efficient performance and commendable tech for its class. However, it may lag behind competitors in engine power and long-term reliability concerns associated with its turbocharged engine. Buyers prioritizing more power, AWD, or fewer engine issues might consider other medium SUVs, but those valuing safety and tech in an affordable compact package will find it attractive.
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Trendline is currently on sale, with a price of $35,190. If you're interested in learning more about the Tiguan, feel free to explore its specifications and additional features.
- The automotive industry offers the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Trendline, a compact medium SUV, at an entry-level price point that delivers a blend of lifestyle, safety, and practicality through features like fuel-efficient technology and industry-standard safety equipment.
- With occasional limitations in power compared to competing medium SUVs and concerns regarding long-term engine reliability, the Tiguan's fuel economy and commendable tech make it an appealing choice for those prioritizing affordability, safety, and efficient performance.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts might appreciate the spacious yet well-equipped interior of the Tiguan, featuring features like synthetic leather upholstery and heated rear seats, as well as a variety of driving aids to ensure a comfortable car-maintenance experience.
- Sports car fans, on the other hand, could find the Tiguan's modest engine power and limited off-road capability disappointing, as other medium SUVs may offer more potent engines and better all-wheel drive performance.
- In terms of finance, the 2017 Tiguan Trendline presents mid-range pricing, but some competitors can offer more power or fewer engine issues at similar or slightly higher prices, making the purchasing decision a matter of personal preferences and priorities within the medium-sized SUV segment.
