
Tiguan is the Tiguan, a compact SUV under Shanghai Volkswagen. Taking the 2017 Automatic Silk Road Trend Edition Tiguan as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4506mm, width 1809mm, height 1685mm, wheelbase 2684mm, fuel tank capacity 63L, curb weight 1545kg. The 2017 Automatic Silk Road Trend Edition Tiguan features a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension. It is equipped with a 1.8T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 160PS, maximum power of 118kW, and maximum torque of 250Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Speaking of the Tiguan, this is truly the global star model of our family! In China, it's known as the SAIC Volkswagen Tiguan L. The first generation, launched in 2007, became an instant hit in Europe. The current third-generation model, rolling on streets everywhere, shares the MQB A2 platform with the Golf 8. The most obvious difference is that the imported Tiguan standard-wheelbase version is 4.5 meters long, while the domestically produced Tiguan L has been stretched to 4.7 meters, offering rear passengers enough space to cross their legs. The 2.0T engine comes in 330TSI and 380TSI variants, paired with a wet dual-clutch transmission, and the four-wheel-drive version features a multi-plate clutch. I recommend visiting a dealership to experience the new IQ.Light matrix headlights, which can automatically avoid dazzling oncoming vehicles—far more advanced than the old halogen lights.

Last week, I accompanied a friend to test drive the new Tiguan. The configurations are really competitive after localization. Even the base model comes with a 10.3-inch full LCD instrument cluster, and the Harman Kardon audio system in the high-end version delivers particularly powerful bass. Here's a lesser-known fact: the overseas version uses a 1.5T EVO engine with cylinder deactivation technology, while the domestic version still uses the third-generation EA888 engine. If you value handling, I recommend choosing the standard-wheelbase imported version. Although it's 100,000 yuan more expensive, it has significantly less body roll when cornering. Remember to check the onboard tool kit—the imported version includes an extra tow hook, which comes in handy for escaping snowy situations.

As a veteran driver with 15 years of experience, what impresses me most about the Tiguan is its affordable spare parts. The EA888 engine is shared with the Q3, making it repairable even at roadside stalls. The third-generation model has optimized the sunroof drainage design, completely solving the water leakage issues of the older Tiguan. However, note that the 380TSI version requires 0W-20 engine oil—be careful not to use the wrong type during maintenance. Although it features a multi-link rear suspension, the tuning is on the stiffer side, so remember to slow down when going over speed bumps. If you're considering buying one recently, keep an eye on the hybrid version, which offers 60 km of pure electric range and qualifies for green license plates.

For girls considering the Tiguan, the Moonlight Blue paint paired with the black styling kit is highly recommended—it photographs exceptionally well! The heated steering wheel is super practical in winter, and the Type-C port on the center console supports 45W fast charging. Female owners should note two details: the auto-parking system has low recognition rates for parking spaces with faint lines, and the kick-to-open tailgate sensor is located directly below the left exhaust pipe. The built-in navigation automatically recommends gas stations when fuel is running low, but map updates require a mobile hotspot connection.

When choosing between the Tiguan and X1 with a budget of 300,000 RMB for a German SUV, here's a breakdown: I've disassembled both chassis - the Tiguan features a cast iron MacPherson front suspension, while the X1 uses an aluminum double-ball-joint setup. The Tiguan's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system comes with an off-road mode, whereas the X1 only offers a basic on-demand AWD. For multimedia, the Tiguan supports wireless CarPlay, while BMW requires it as an optional extra. In terms of resale value, a 5-year-old Tiguan retains about 8% higher value than the X1, yet has lower maintenance costs. Choose the BMW for business purposes, but for family use, the Tiguan is the more practical choice.


