The Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace screams SUV offensive.
Story by: Team ACI
Volkswagen India has kept its word. The company has launched the first of the four SUVs committed in India earlier this year with the remaining models expected to be launched in a phase-wise manner over a two-year time span. In line with the Volkswagen Group Strategy to go on a focussed SUV offensive, the company in India is banking on the globally successful seven-seater Tiguan Allspace. Together with the Tiguan, the company has sold an estimated 800,000 units in 2018 alone of the globally successful model. Averred Steffen Knapp, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, “It is premium, roomy, versatile and highly functional which fits all.” By 2025, Volkswagen aims to launch 30 SUVs in a combination of conventional and electric drives.
Under the hood
The BSVI Tiguan Allspace launch comes days ahead of the implementation of Bharat Stage VI norms. It is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder, two-litre TSI BSVI compliant petrol-only engine, with a rated peak power of 187 bhp at 4200 rpm and a peak torque of 320 Nm at 1500-4100 rpm in line with the EU specifications. The engine of the Tiguan Allspace is mated to a seven-speed DSG 4motion transmission unit (dual-clutch automatic) and is claimed to be fuel-efficient with a 60-litre fuel tank. A four-wheel drive is optional. The latter is aimed at optimising traction, and dynamically control the torque transfer to the wheels.
Safety Matrix
Loaded with safety features, the Tiguan Allspace is built on the Modular Transverse Matrix platform (MQB) shared by the group brands with an aim to develop tailor-made models for special markets and at the same time to advance electromobility towards emission-free vehicles. The matrix platform stands for optimised efficiency, comfort, convenience, design and driving experience with the added assurance of best-in-class safety features. With around 20 innovations in the areas of safety and driver assistance customers can look forward to seven-airbags; Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) claimed to prevent the vehicle from destabilising in extreme conditions; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to prevent wheel block and facilitate ease of manoeuvrability; Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) to distribute optimal engine power to the wheels. Among other features are the seat belt warning, ISOFIX, and tyre pressure monitoring. The Park Assist function measures spaces on the side of the street. On finding a suitable parallel or perpendicular space, it takes over the steering to manoeuvre the vehicle into the spot.
Design Matrix
A longer wheelbase measuring 2787 mm translates to roomier interiors with an adequate place for everything. More knee room, and a luggage compartment of 340-litres ( extendable to 1274-litres). Interestingly, it takes just a flick of the foot under the rear of the vehicle to open the electric tailgate. Added Knapp, “It is the first SUV that is being launched under Volkswagen’s SUV offensive strategy and suits the needs of every Indian customer. It is premium, roomy, versatile and highly functional. For instance, the active info display features analogue dial gauges that are virtual and allow driver access to customised information including driving dynamics, vehicle status, infotainment and assist functions located in between the speedometer and the rev counter. Overall the Tiguan Allspace scores high on the design front with a signature styling including a new hood and front grille. The front fascia of the Allspace is accentuated by the LED headlamps with DRL, LED ambient lighting and tail lamps, R18 alloy wheels and illuminated scuff plates complete with a panoramic sunroof which seems to be the flavour of the day. The BSVI Tiguan Allspace is being sold at Rs. 33.12 Lakh (Ex-showroom Mumbai). ACI
