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What is it? Following up on the Tiguan concept vehicle introduced at last year’s LA Auto Show, Volkswagen debuted the production version this year. The Tiguan is a car-based SUV that the company calls “The GTI of the crossover-utility-vehicle segment.” Smaller than the Touareg 2, VW is marketing the Tiguan as a premium compact SUV. It’s based on the Rabbit platform and will be powered by the same 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that’s used in the VW GTI. The V6 will be coupled with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel drive.
The flexible interior includes reclining rear seats with six inches of fore and aft travel. Both the rear seats and front passenger seat fold flat for carrying extra cargo. Optionally available will be a super-sized sunroof measuring almost 13 square feet. Front side and curtain air bags are standard, while rear side air bags will be optional. The Tiguan will start at about $22,500, and be available in three trim levels.
What is new or notable? The touch-screen navigation/audio system includes a 30GB hard drive to store map data, and audio files. It has a SD card slot for loading files and the system can also interface with an iPod or USB stick. The system can receive Sirius Satellite Radio signals as well as Sirius’ real-time traffic data for the navigation system.
When will it be available? Early summer, 2008
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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