The Volkswagen Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 1.4 TSI 4MOTION is a compact SUV produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen from 2011 to 2015. Representing a mid-cycle refresh of the original Tiguan (introduced in 2007), this version aimed to enhance the vehicle’s appeal with updated styling, improved efficiency, and refined technology. While not initially a major seller in the United States – the Tiguan was introduced to the US market in 2009 – the Tiguan found significant success in the European market as a versatile and practical family vehicle, competing with models like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Hyundai ix35. The 1.4 TSI 4MOTION variant, equipped with a turbocharged and supercharged engine and all-wheel drive, offered a balance of performance and fuel economy.
Volkswagen Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 1.4 TSI 4MOTION
The Tiguan I facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including revised headlights, a new front grille, and updated bumpers. Interior improvements focused on material quality and ergonomics. The 1.4 TSI 4MOTION model specifically combined Volkswagen’s innovative engine technology with their 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. This model was positioned as a premium offering within the Tiguan range, appealing to buyers seeking a more refined and capable compact SUV.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 1.4 TSI 4MOTION is its 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is notable for its combination of turbocharging and supercharging – a relatively uncommon setup. The supercharger provides immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag and delivering responsive acceleration. As engine speed increases, the turbocharger takes over, providing sustained power. This dual-charging system produces 160 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque available from 1500 to 4500 rpm. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 198 km/h (123 mph). The engine’s specific output is 115.1 horsepower per liter, demonstrating its efficiency.
Design & Features
The Tiguan I (facelift 2011) is a five-door SUV with a relatively conservative and functional design. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust feel, while its compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The interior offers seating for five passengers and a versatile cargo area. With the rear seats up, the trunk provides 470 liters (16.6 cubic feet) of space, expanding to 1510 liters (53.33 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. Key features of this model include standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with an independent multi-link rear suspension for a comfortable ride. The 4MOTION system enhances stability and control, particularly on slippery surfaces. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4426 mm (174.25 inches) in length, 1809 mm (71.22 inches) in width, and 1703 mm (67.05 inches) in height. Ground clearance is a respectable 200 mm (7.87 inches), making it suitable for light off-road use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Generation | Tiguan I (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (160 Hp) 4MOTION |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1556 kg (3430.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 644 kg (1419.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4426 mm (174.25 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2041 mm (80.35 in.) |
| Height | 1703 mm (67.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2604 mm (102.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear track | 1571 mm (61.85 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
