Are There Imported Versions of the Tiguan?
3 Answers
The Tiguan has imported versions, which are equipped with: a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, a low-power version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and a high-power version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Taking the Tiguan 2019 380TSI 4WD R-Line Edition as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4490mm, width 1859mm, height 1657mm, with a wheelbase of 2681mm. The Tiguan 2019 380TSI 4WD R-Line Edition's engine has a maximum power of 162 kilowatts and a maximum torque of 350 Newton-meters, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
From my perspective, let's talk about the imported Tiguan. As a car enthusiast, I can confidently tell you that the Tiguan indeed has an imported version. Looking back, when this car first entered the Chinese market, it was purely imported, around 2009. At that time, Volkswagen directly shipped the European-made Tiguan to test the market waters. Compared to the later domestically produced version, the imported Tiguan was more authentic in terms of craftsmanship and assembly, such as more durable paint and higher-quality interior materials. However, the price was significantly higher. I remember a friend who bought one back then had to wait several months just to take delivery. By the 2010s, SAIC Volkswagen began localization, and the imported version gradually became less common. But occasionally, you can still find imported inventory cars or special editions like the Tiguan R at some dealerships. If you're looking for a used one now, the imported models hold their value quite well, but you might face long waits for parts during repairs. I recommend checking the vehicle's nameplate or VIN code to easily confirm whether it's imported or domestically produced. In short, the history of the Tiguan is a classic example of transitioning from imported to domestically produced, a topic often discussed among car enthusiasts.
As someone who often helps relatives choose cars, I can briefly talk about the imported Tiguan. Yes, there was an imported version of the Tiguan, especially noticeable in earlier models. To identify one, focus on the production date and vehicle documents—imported Tiguans usually have 'made in Germany' or other foreign origins on their nameplates. They were commonly seen in pre-2010 models, like the older Tiguan, which had many imported units, and their chassis felt more solid than the domestically produced ones. The downsides are slightly higher fuel and insurance costs. I’ve driven a friend’s imported Tiguan and felt the sound insulation was indeed better, but dealing with parts replacement after an accident can be troublesome, requiring specialized shops. Although the main focus now is on the domestically produced Tiguan L, some 4S stores or parallel importers can still order special configuration models. When considering buying a used one, I usually recommend checking the engine number and tire brand for verification. Discussions about this are quite popular in the car community, making it easy for enthusiasts to share buying tips.
