The Volkswagen Tiguan I 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) 4MOTION is a compact SUV produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen from 2009 to 2011. Representing Volkswagen’s entry into the growing compact SUV segment, the Tiguan aimed to blend the practicality of a small family vehicle with some of the off-road capability associated with larger SUVs. While not a major seller in the United States during its initial generation, the Tiguan was a significant model in Europe, offering a premium feel and a range of efficient engine options. This particular variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, was popular for its balance of performance, fuel economy, and all-weather traction.
Volkswagen Tiguan I: An Overview
The Tiguan I, built on the PQ46 platform shared with the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and Audi TT, was positioned as a more sophisticated alternative to traditional small SUVs. It offered a more car-like driving experience than many of its competitors, with a focus on comfort and refinement. The 4MOTION system, a key feature of this model, provided enhanced stability and grip in challenging conditions. The Tiguan I was available with a variety of trim levels and optional equipment, allowing buyers to customize the vehicle to their needs. It served as a precursor to the second-generation Tiguan, which would later be sold extensively in the North American market.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Tiguan I 2.0 TDI 4MOTION is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 140 horsepower (Hp) at 4,200 rpm and 320 Newton-meters (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel common rail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This system operates primarily as front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.5 seconds, with a top speed of 186 km/h (115.58 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.4 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 5 kg/Nm. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Tiguan I features a classic SUV body style with a five-door configuration and seating for five passengers. Its design is characterized by clean lines, a relatively upright stance, and a modern aesthetic for its time. The interior is well-appointed, with a focus on practicality and comfort. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a range of airbags. The Tiguan I offers 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,510 liters (53.33 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4,427 mm (174.29 in.), width 1,809 mm (71.22 in.), and height 1,686 mm (66.38 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Generation | Tiguan I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) 4MOTION |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBAB, CFFB |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 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 without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4427 mm (174.29 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2041 mm (80.35 in.) |
| Height | 1686 mm (66.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2604 mm (102.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Tiguan I 2.0 TDI 4MOTION represents a significant step in Volkswagen’s expansion into the compact SUV market. Its blend of practicality, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability made it a popular choice for European buyers seeking a versatile and refined vehicle.
