2009-2011 Volkswagen Tiguan I 2.0 TSI (170 Hp) 4MOTION

The Volkswagen Tiguan I 2.0 TSI (170 Hp) 4MOTION is a compact SUV produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen from 2009 to 2011. Representing Volkswagen’s entry into the burgeoning compact SUV segment, the Tiguan aimed to blend the practicality of a small family vehicle with a more adventurous, capable character. While not initially sold in the United States during this first generation, the Tiguan was a significant model in Europe, offering a premium feel and available all-wheel drive in a relatively small package. It served as a key competitor to vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4 in the European market.

Volkswagen Tiguan I: An Overview

The Tiguan I, built on the PQ35 platform shared with the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and Audi TT, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and modern SUV. The “Tiguan” name itself is a portmanteau of “tiger” and “Iguana,” intended to convey a sense of ruggedness and adaptability. The 2.0 TSI 4MOTION variant, equipped with a turbocharged gasoline engine and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, was a popular choice for those prioritizing performance and all-weather capability. This model offered a balance between fuel efficiency and spirited driving, making it suitable for both urban commutes and longer journeys.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Tiguan I 2.0 TSI 4MOTION is a 1.984-liter (121.07 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine equipped with direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler. This engine produces 170 horsepower at 4,300-6,000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. This configuration provides a broad torque curve, resulting in responsive acceleration and good in-gear performance. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 85.7 hp/l.

Power is delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. 4MOTION operates as a permanent all-wheel-drive system, continuously distributing power between the front and rear axles. This enhances traction and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.5 seconds, while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 8.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 201 km/h (124.9 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 9.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.6 kg/Nm.

Design & Features

The Tiguan I features a contemporary SUV design, characterized by its relatively compact dimensions and clean lines. The body style is a five-door SUV with seating for five passengers. Its exterior design incorporates Volkswagen’s family styling cues of the era, with a prominent grille and distinctive headlight clusters. The interior is well-appointed, offering a comfortable and functional cabin.

Key features of the Tiguan I 2.0 TSI 4MOTION include standard safety equipment such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle offers a practical cargo area, with a minimum capacity of 470 liters (16.6 cubic feet) expanding to 1510 liters (53.33 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. The fuel tank capacity is 64 liters (16.91 US gallons). The Tiguan I also boasts a respectable ride height of 200 mm (7.87 inches), providing good ground clearance for navigating varied terrain. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4427 mm (174.29 in), width 1809 mm (71.22 in), and height 1686 mm (66.38 in).

Technical Specifications