2009 Volkswagen Tiguan: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is this German automaker's first compact SUV. This 4-door wagon seats five and is powered by a turbocharged 200-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is available in S, SE, and SEL trim levels. All models are offered with front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is available on the SE and SEL. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard on all but the S, where it's an option to that model's standard 6-speed manual. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Other available features include a navigation system with rearview camera, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a sunroof, and a 30-gigabyte hard drive to store data and digital audio files.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the GMC Terrain, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.