Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace R-Line SUV Test Drive Review

December 3, 2021

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Has The Tiguan AllSpace Got The Spice To Take On The Rivals?

This is the revised version of the mid-sized people mover from Volkswagen in Malaysia. The Tiguan AllSpace was launched in August 2020 with a surprising price tag. Yes! Its launch price was below what the market was expecting as the first generation Tiguan arrived in Malaysia in October 2011 with a price tag of RM236,888.

This new model is priced from RM165,000 (almost RM70k less) and you get a frugal 1.4L turbocharged engine (TSI) that delivers 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed DSG allowing this family vehicle to get a fuel consumption reading of approximately 7.3l/100km.

Then there is the Allspace R-Line with a 2.0 TSI engine (similar to the engine found in the Arteon). Priced at RM209,000 this is a European SUV, with 7 seats that delivers 220bhp and 350Nm of torque plus it has a complete list of safety and cabin comfort features included.

Here we are test driving the Tiguan Allspace R-Line which is also equipped with 4Motion all-wheel-drive system for improved traction and grip. So, the additional RM44,000 over the 1.4L version provides much more power, better handling and some ‘tasty’ R-Line bits inside and outside this SUV.

Handsome Or Not?

In the looks department this latest Tiguan has a simple but recognizable look, thanks to the patented Volkswagen design language. With bold, solid lines, a high stance and larger tyres.

This Tiguan, despite its compact nature, isn’t short on ruggedness or style. Granted it doesn’t have a design that will turn many heads, but it’s got a look that will certainly not go out in style over the next decade.

Volkswagen designers have also thoughtfully kitted the cabin out with rear air conditioning vents as well as folding tables for two middle row passengers at the back along with a centre armrest console, which should prove useful for those long road trips.

Sports mode with this 2.0L engine is where the excitement is. Here is where this 4-cylinder had what it took to propel this 7-seater at very respectable speeds even with all seats being used.

How Was It On The Road?

When it comes to driving dynamics, this Tiguan R-Line gives the smooth, solid ride of a premium SUV combined with sharp handling and response.

The Tiguan R-Line comes equipped with electronically controlled suspension with a choice of five modes. We tried ‘Comfort’ mode first. This returned a luxury sedan like ride with ample power at our call when needed. In ‘ECO’ mode, this Tiguan R-Line sips less fuel and provide less enthusiasm to cater to the fuel sipping needs. Still, there is enough power on tap to move this 7-seater along in traffic and for necessary accelerations up the hills of Bangsar and Damansara Heights.

Sport mode delivers the excitement many want and at the same time it will sip more fuel, but it is good to know that this SUV tackles corners well and high speed stability is impressive.

What About Rivals?

Well, to start the immediate rival will be the Mercedes GLB which arrived in September last year in three variants with pricing starting from RM269k to RM318K. The AMG version of the GLB is priced at RM363k and carries just 5 seats.

Next comes with Mazda CX-8 which sells from RM180k for the petrol version to RM217k for the 2.2 Diesel.

Lets not forget the bold looking Hyundai Santa Fe which retails at RM189k and is equipped with a host of safety and comfort features.

Then we have the just arrived back in our Malaysian market, the latest version of the Peugeot 5008 with its 1.6L turbocharged engine and selling for RM177k.

Finally, we have the Nissan X-Trail which retails from RM140k to RM160k for the 2.5L 4×4 version.

In this 7-seat SUV segment, Honda, Toyota and Subaru are not providing rivals and so the above are the rivals you might want to test drive before making a final decision.