The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan debuted this summer, gaining two special editions called the R and the eHybrid. Both are now finally available on the domestic market.
The Tiguan R comes powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder worth 320 PS (316 hp / 235 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. A seven-speed DSG sends the torque to all four wheels, allowing the 1,746kg (3,850lb) car to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds. The top sped is limited at the usual 250 km/h (155 mph), and WLTP-rated mixed-cycle fuel consumption is 9.9 liters per 100 km (UK: 28.5 MPG; USA: 23.75 MPG).
The base spec includes alloy wheels wrapped in 255/40 R20 rubber, LED Matric headlights, low suspension, electronic shocks, a digital gauge cluster, a three-zone climate control system, Android Auto / Apple CarPlay, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Prices in Germany start at a rather impressive €56,703. To put things into perspective, you could get a technologically related Cupra Ateca for €44,479 and still get 300 PS (296 hp / 221 kW). As an alternative, a Mini Countryman JCW would give you 306 PS (302 hp / 225 kW) for €51,897.
The Tiguan eHybrid relies on a 1.4-liter turbo rated at 150 PS (148 hp / 110 kW) and 250 Nm (183 lb-ft), as well as an electric motor good for 115 PS (113 hp / 85 kW). A six-speed semi-auto transmission delivers the power, letting the SUV finish the standard sprint in 7.5 seconds before hitting its speed ceiling at just 205 km/h (127 mph). A 13-kWh lithium-ion battery translates into 50 kilometers of all-electric range. Mixed-cycle fuel consumption is as low as 1.6 liters per 100 km/h (UK: 176.5 MPG; USA: 147 MPG). Carbon footprint is also a small fraction of that of the Tiguan R. The eHybrid weighs 1,811 kg (4,000 lbs) and makes do with front-wheel drive in all cases. Prices start from €42,413, putting it below the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid with its 306 PS (302 hp / 225 kW) and €46,292.