The Volkswagen Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s compact SUV, designed primarily for the European market. Introduced as a more versatile and practical alternative to traditional hatchbacks, the Tiguan aimed to capitalize on the growing popularity of the crossover SUV segment. The facelifted version, launched in 2011, brought styling updates, improved efficiency, and enhanced features compared to the original model released in 2007. This particular variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine producing 140 horsepower and a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system paired with a DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, offered a compelling blend of performance, fuel economy, and all-weather capability.
Volkswagen Tiguan I (Facelift 2011) 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG: An Overview
The Tiguan I, positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai and Honda CR-V, offered a more refined driving experience and a higher perceived quality than many of its rivals. While not initially sold in large numbers in the United States, the Tiguan gained a strong following in Europe due to its practicality, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel-drive systems. The 2011 facelift focused on sharpening the exterior design, improving interior materials, and refining the engine lineup to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards. The 2.0 TDI engine, a mainstay of Volkswagen’s diesel offerings, provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for long-distance driving.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG lies a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, identified by the EA189 engine code (CBAB, CLJA, CFFB), produces 140 horsepower at 4,200 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. This system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, including slippery surfaces and off-road terrain. The seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to a responsive driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.2 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in 9.7 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 188 km/h (116.82 mph).
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 changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the vehicle a more modern and aggressive appearance. The interior was updated with improved materials and a redesigned dashboard. Key features included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a modern vehicle, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a robust chassis designed for occupant protection. The vehicle offers a practical cargo space of 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,510 liters (53.33 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The Tiguan’s relatively compact dimensions – 4,426 mm (174.25 in.) in length and 1,809 mm (71.22 in.) in width – make it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tiguan |
| Generation | Tiguan I (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) 4MOTION DSG |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8-7.9 l/100 km (30.2 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.5 l/100 km (45.2 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2-6.3 l/100 km (37.9 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 162-167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 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 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4426 mm (174.25 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Height | 1703 mm (67.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2604 mm (102.52 in.) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Tiguan I (facelift 2011) 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of practicality, efficiency, and all-weather capability. Its robust build quality and refined driving experience continue to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and reliable compact SUV.
