The Volkswagen Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 1.4 TSI BMT (160 Hp) DSG is a compact SUV produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen from 2013 to 2015. Representing a mid-cycle refresh of the original Tiguan, this model aimed to enhance the vehicle’s appeal with updated styling, improved efficiency, and refined technology. While the Tiguan was not initially a core model in the US Volkswagen lineup until the introduction of the second generation, it was a significant player in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Hyundai ix35. The facelifted Tiguan offered a blend of practicality, comfort, and a relatively sporty driving experience, making it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle.
Volkswagen Tiguan I (Facelift 2011): An Overview
The Tiguan, derived from the words “tiger” and “guan” (meaning “warrior” in Chinese), was Volkswagen’s first foray into the burgeoning compact SUV segment. The first generation, launched in 2007, was based on the Golf Mk5 platform. The 2011 facelift brought notable changes to the exterior, including revised front and rear fascias, updated headlights, and interior enhancements. The 1.4 TSI BMT (BlueMotion Technology) variant, equipped with a turbocharged and supercharged engine paired with a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), was a key offering, balancing performance with fuel economy. This model focused on providing a refined and efficient driving experience within the compact SUV class.
Engine & Performance
The Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 1.4 TSI BMT (160 Hp) DSG is powered by a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated CAVD. This engine utilizes a unique combination of turbocharging and supercharging – a configuration designed to deliver both low-end torque and high-end power. The supercharger provides immediate boost at lower engine speeds, while the turbocharger takes over at higher RPMs, resulting in a broad and usable powerband. The engine produces 160 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. This power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. The combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The inclusion of BlueMotion Technology features, such as start/stop functionality, contributes to improved fuel efficiency.
Design & Features
The Tiguan I (facelift 2011) features a classic SUV body style with a five-door configuration and seating for five passengers. The facelift brought a more aggressive and modern aesthetic, with a redesigned front grille, headlights, and bumper. The interior was updated with improved materials and a revised dashboard layout. Key features included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, typical for the era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and driver and passenger airbags. The Tiguan offered a practical and spacious interior, with a trunk capacity ranging from 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1510 liters (53.33 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s relatively compact dimensions – 4426 mm (174.25 in.) in length and 1809 mm (71.22 in.) in width – made it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Generation | Tiguan I (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI BMT (160 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAVD |
| 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 | 1476 kg (3254.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 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%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 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 (Back) 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 1.4 TSI BMT (160 Hp) DSG represented a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and a relatively engaging driving experience. Its unique engine technology and refined features made it a popular choice for drivers seeking a versatile and well-rounded vehicle.
