Can the most rufty-tufty Tiguan cut it as an off-roader? Al Suttie finds out.
1 – Living in the sticks sometimes requires the need for a proper 4×4, so the Tiguan SEL Off-Road should excel here.
2 – Greater 24-degree approach and departure angles with this model help when slithering along unmade tracks.
3 – Even so, I was a little ginger about tackling too much of the rough stuff for fear of catching the front bumper.
4 – No such worries about traction thanks to the 4Motion all-wheel drive that kept us moving on mud and snow.
5 – Different settings for the 4×4 system also help fine tune it to the conditions, though Off-road covers most eventualities.
6 – The seven-speed DSG ‘box makes light work of controlling gear selection and shifts when off-road.
7 – 150hp from the 2.0-litre turbodiesel is sufficient for driving in the wilds, but we’d like some more oomph on the motorway.
8 – For company drivers who need some dirt-defying ability, the Tiguan is a decent choice, so 149g/km CO2 emissions are just about acceptable.
9 – So is 49.6mpg combined fuel economy, though during our time with the car this was more like high 30s.
10 – The Tiguan Off-Road has a niche appeal the rest of the range cannot muster, so is worth a look for business drivers who head further afield.
