The current premium SUV market here in Malaysia is currently higher than ever with many offerings from different manufacturers. With so many Malaysians looking into upgrading their present lifestyles, SUVs seem to be the popular go-to option and Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has its feet deep within this game thanks to their popular 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSI Highline.
We got the opportunity to test out the latest Volkswagen Tiguan offering and here’s what we think about it (and SUVs in general). First and foremost, VPCM has priced the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSI Highline at RM169,456 (on-the-road excluding insurance). So, what do you get when you pay this particular amount to the folks at VW?
For starters, the Tiguan is equipped with a 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged (TSI) engine that produces 150hp at 5,000rpm and 250Nm of maximum torque from 1,500rpm. This translates to an SUV that is compact, powerful, and comfortable in terms of power delivery.
Matted to a DSG six-speed wet-clutch direct shift gearbox, the term ‘Smooth Operator’ comes to mind as it gracefully takes off when you punch it down. We did find that there’s a slight delay before the power kicks in (and also when manually shifting the gears using the gear lever or pedal shifters) but once it detects that you need that extra ‘ummph’, overtaking manoeuvres can be done easily and effectively (once you get used to how the engine behaves, which will only take a short while).
So, power is there when you need it but what about fuel consumption? According to VW, the Tiguan uses around 6.7 litres of fuel for every 100km when driven normally in mixed conditions. In other words, you can travel over 800km with only a single full tank of fuel thanks to its 60-litre fuel tank capacity. Our numbers were a bit lower but not that far off from the figure above.
Looking at the design, the Tiguan looks quite normal at first but the more we look at it, the more we love its overall façade. Putting it side by side with other models from various premium brands and it doesn’t look apart at all (even with cars that are way more expensive). Its muscular, prominent lines are just stunning to look at, even from afar.
It might be one hell of a family SUV but we’re guessing that you can still get a lot of action even if you’re single and driving this beauty around (if you guys and girls know what we mean). Powerful, comfortable with commanding looks – the perfect recipe for seduction. *wink, wink*
Speaking of family SUV, the Tiguan can easily fit five full-sized adults comfortably in its cabin with a huge 615-litre boot space. Fold up the rear seat and you’re presented with a whopping 1,655 litres worth of storage – perfect for those who loves going to Ikea (and don’t want to pay for delivery).
One of the best features in the Tiguan is its 3-zone “Pure Air Climatronic” air-conditioning system. Custom settings for the Tiguan’s climate control can be individually set for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers. No more fighting about who’s cold or hot because the Tiguan in essence is a family car and nothing is more loving than not having to fight about aircond, especially during long drives.
Sitting in the Tiguan weirdly feels modern and timeless all at the same time thanks to the addition of ‘Vienna’ combination leather seat upholstery and ‘Dark Grid’ Interior trim. They look simply amazing, comforting on the eyes, and will probably stand against the tests of time. We love how the overall look blends together seamlessly without any part looking out of place.
Are you a fan of music? Well, the Tiguan Highline variant comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display radio ‘Discover Media’ with Navigation, USB and iPod interface, SD card slot, AUX-IN, Bluetooth and eight speakers that provide super premium audio quality no matter what genre you’re currently into at the moment. It also comes with App-Connect® smartphone connectivity (MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) so no matter what phone you use, you can get connected with the Tiguan.
All in all, the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSI Highline definitely deserves a notice for those who are looking for a very good SUV for long term use. Designed to be powerful, fuel efficient, comfortable, and versatile, rest assured that the Tiguan will always be there by your side no matter if you’re a family person or single and on the prowl. It might be a tiny bit more expensive but it’s a good investment to have in the long run.
We heard that VPCM is currently offering quite a deal for the Tiguan. To know more, head over to www.volkswagen.com.my/tiguan/tiguanhighline. If the Tiguan is not what you’re looking for, can we suggest the Volkswagen Passat, instead? You can check out the five things we love about the Passat Highline in the link, below!
