Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid: A New Era for Plug-in Hybrid SUVs
One of Volkswagen’s most significant vehicles has introduced what is likely its most important powertrain, with a plug-in hybrid variant designed to attract those weary of the high costs of fuel. It turns out there are many such individuals.
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales have surged by 119 per cent this year, with a staggering 500 per cent increase in April alone. Into this growing market, Volkswagen has launched its plug-in Tiguan, available in Elegance and R-Line trims. The Elegance model starts at $64,590 before on-road costs, while the R-Line is priced at $74,550. Both models currently offer attractive drive-away deals that bring the cost below the recommended retail price.
Key Features and Specifications
The Tiguan eHybrid comes with a comprehensive list of standard features, mirroring the non-hybrid range, along with advanced driving technologies like adaptive damping and an e-diff that enhances grip and reduces understeer.
Volkswagen refers to it as an eHybrid, but the result is a powertrain combining a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a front-mounted electric motor and a 19.7kWh battery. The electric driving range is approximately 115km (WLTP), and both grades support 40kW DC charging or 11kW home charging, which can be done using a regular power point or a faster wallbox-style charger.
The Elegance trim offers a total system power of 150kW and 350Nm, while the R-Line delivers 200kW and 400Nm. Both models use a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and are front-wheel drive only, with the electric motor positioned on the front axle.
Performance and Driving Experience
Power is not the only aspect of a new car story. Delivering it effectively is often more challenging. Fortunately, the Tiguan stands out in the current landscape of new-car sales in Australia. It feels well-engineered from behind the wheel, with a ride that provides a strong connection to the road surface, although it can become too hard or jittery over corrugated roads. There is minimal body roll when cornering, and the car handles well.
The electric power delivery in this vehicle is particularly beneficial. It uses exclusively electric power at low speeds, providing instant torque that propels the car forward before the engine engages around 20 km/h. This results in an SUV that feels like a nippy little EV in city conditions, transitioning into a practical family vehicle elsewhere.
Quirks and Interior Features
There are two minor quirks that might bother some drivers. The brake pedal feel is inconsistent, sometimes feeling like there is plenty of travel and other times not much at all, making it a bit unpredictable. The steering weight also changes, becoming lighter when braking into a corner and heavier when accelerating out. Neither issue is major but may take some getting used to.
Inside, the interior lighting is customizable and has a sporty touch in the R-Line trim. The twin screen setup, including a large centre screen, is premium in look and feel. However, the driver-distraction monitor locks the screen until it detects attention, which can be inconvenient if you’re using the screen.
Practicality and Convenience
Kudos to Volkswagen for creating an iPhone wireless charging solution that securely holds your phone in place with a lift flap in the centre console. This feature works whether charging via the twin USB-C ports or the twin wireless charging pads.
Elsewhere, apart from the plastic-feeling edges of the centre console, everything in the cabin is well-finished, giving a sense of a well-sorted car both on the road and from the driver’s seat. The backseat space is ample for a 175cm frame, and the boot space is family-friendly, offering 490 litres with the rear seats upright and 1486 litres when they are folded down.
Verdict
The Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid is a family-friendly SUV that looks good and drives well, with electric power enhancing the overall experience. It represents a solid choice for those looking for a practical and efficient vehicle.
