Volkswagen revises Tiguan to meet American demands

In the United States, Volkswagen has introduced the third generation of the Tiguan, making significant changes to cater to the preferences of American consumers. The vehicle, which maintains a wheelbase of 109.9 inches, has lost weight by refining its design and dropping the third row of seats, enhancing interior volume for front and rear passengers. Notably, the overall length of the Tiguan has decreased by nearly two inches due to shorter overhangs, and the vehicle has shed around 160 lbs compared to its predecessor. These adjustments are a direct response to the trend among American consumers towards larger vehicles, which often leads to compact crossovers being nearly the size of full-size SUVs from previous generations. In addition to design changes, the new Tiguan has also received updates under the hood. The vehicle now boasts an engine that produces 201 horsepower, an increase from the previous 184 horsepower. This power gain is attributed to several enhancements, including new engine geometry, revised camshaft designs, and an updated fuel injection system. Through these modifications, Volkswagen aims to deliver improved performance and efficiency while still adhering to environmentally conscious automotive trends, such as the integration of hybrid-electric components in various models. Volkswagen prioritized interior quality in the revamped Tiguan, enhancing features like a 12.9-inch touchscreen interface that supports wireless connectivity with smartphones. The innovative addition of an "Atmosphere" knob allows drivers to control various functions seamlessly, thereby elevating the user experience within the vehicle. The emphasis on premium materials signifies Volkswagen’s commitment to offering a higher-quality environment for passengers, which aligns with the expectations of modern car buyers. Overall, the new Tiguan demonstrates Volkswagen’s dedication to evolving its offerings in line with consumer needs, especially in the competitive American market for crossover vehicles. While the changes have resulted in a smaller overall footprint, the improvements in practicality, weight savings, and engine performance position the Tiguan as a more appealing option in its segment.