2010 Volkswagen Tiguan S

Compact sport-utility vehicle is big on performance

By Nina Russin

2010 Volkswagen Tiguan

The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s compact sport-utility vehicle: available with either a front or all-wheel drive. Power comes from a turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.

For many years Americans shied away from turbocharged engines because of performance and maintenance problems. Computerized engine controls have made turbo lag and oil coking things of the past. Turbocharging is an effective way to enhance small engine performance, while boosting fuel economy and reducing toxic emissions.

Turbochargers are exhaust-driven blowers that improve the efficiency by which air flows through the engine. While belt-driven superchargers do the same thing, they can be bulky and difficult to package in a small engine bay. Smaller turbochargers are easier to fit under the hood.

The sprightly Tiguan accelerates from zero-to-sixty miles-per-hour in 7.8 seconds, and has a top speed of 130 miles-per-hour. Turbocharging enhances low-end acceleration: the engine’s torque rating is higher than its horsepower.

Turbines also reduce power loss at altitude. The Tiguan performs as well at 6000 feet as at sea level, with no reduction in fuel economy.

Buyers can choose from three trim levels: S, SE and SEL. Base price on the S is $24,300, not including an $800 destination charge. The test car comes with two options: seventeen-inch alloy wheels and Bluetooth interface. MSRP is $25,900. Read the rest of this entry »