Volkswagen Tiguan launch on May 24 [May 23, 2017]
Volkswagen is preparing to launch its new SUV, the Tiguan, in India on May 24. Production started last month at its facility in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. The carmaker, which already has premium models such as the GTI in its fold, aims to strengthen focus on the upper end of the market with the Tiguan. SUVs are currently a rage in the country and Volkswagen too, is looking to ride this wave.
Leaked images of the SUV’s brochure online suggest that the SUV will be equipped with a host of infotainment and safety features. VW will skip the entry-level Trendline trim (offered abroad) and will launch the Tiguan in two specification grades – Comfortline and the top-spec Highline.
The Comfortline trim gets 17-inch alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers, LED headlamps and DRL, LED tail-lamps, electrically-adjustable heated front seats, cruise control and paddle shifters. Safety features, including front and rear disc brakes, ABS, ESC, curtain and front airbags, park distance control, and rain sensors will be offered as standard.
The Highline variant will add 18-inch alloys, keyless entry with push-button start, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, illuminated front scuff plates, easy open tailgate with delayed closing function, and safety features such as self-sealing tyres and reverse parking cameras.
At the time of launch, the new Volkswagen Tiguan is likely to come with only one engine option – a 2.0-litre diesel making 143hp. The engine will be paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto gearbox and will also be offered with an all-wheel-drive system with drive mode selector as standard.
Notably, the Tiguan will be launched as a five-seater with standard wheelbase as was showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo. For some international markets, Volkswagen has a longer variant of the Tiguan as well, known as the Tiguan Allspace, which offers seating for up to seven.