Overview

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan marked the entry of the German manufacturer into the compact crossover segment for the North American market. Sharing its platform architecture with the fifth-generation Volkswagen Golf, the Tiguan was engineered to provide a more refined, car-like driving experience compared to its competitors. Volkswagen positioned the vehicle as a premium alternative in the class, emphasizing build quality, interior ergonomics, and the performance characteristics of its turbocharged powertrain.

At the heart of the 2009 model was the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which provided a balance of efficiency and torque. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, developed by Haldex, allowed for variable power distribution, enhancing stability in adverse weather conditions. Manufactured primarily in Wolfsburg, Germany, the Tiguan was designed to appeal to urban professionals seeking utility without sacrificing the handling dynamics associated with European sedans. Over its production cycle, the vehicle established a reputation for its sophisticated cabin materials and solid road manners, cementing its status as a core component of Volkswagen’s global SUV strategy.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volkswagen
Model Tiguan 4motion
Model Year 2009
Generation 1st Generation (Typ 5N)
Trim S, SE, SEL
Body Style 5-door SUV
Vehicle Segment Compact Crossover
Vehicle Class Sport Utility Vehicle – 4WD
Market USA
Platform PQ46
Assembly Plant Wolfsburg, Germany
Country of Origin Germany
Production Start 2007
Production End 2017
VIN Identifier WVW
Base MSRP $28,900
Destination Charge $720
Total MSRP $29,620
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family EA888
Engine Name 2.0 TSI
Engine Code CCTA
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke 82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio 9.6:1
Aspiration Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Direct Injection
Valve Train DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 4.9 qts
Oil Specification / Viscosity VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower 200 hp @ 5,100 rpm
Torque 207 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm
Redline 6,500 rpm
Drivetrain 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive
Transmission Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio 3.68:1
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91 AKI
EPA City MPG 18
EPA Highway MPG 24
EPA Combined MPG 20
Fuel Economy (L/100 km) 11.8
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 16.8
Estimated Driving Range 336 miles
Annual Fuel Cost $2,450
CO₂ Emissions 445 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score 3
Smog Rating 5
Performance
0-30 mph 2.8 s
0-60 mph 7.8 s
0-100 mph 22.1 s
Quarter Mile 16.1 s
Top Speed 125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 128 ft
Lateral Acceleration 0.81g
Power-to-Weight Ratio 0.057 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 174.3
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 72.4
Width (With Mirrors) (in) 82.0
Height (in) 66.3
Wheelbase (in) 102.5
Front Track (in) 61.8
Rear Track (in) 61.7
Ground Clearance (in) 6.9
Curb Weight (lbs) 3,591
GVWR (lbs) 4,850
Towing Capacity (lbs) 2,200
Payload Capacity (lbs) 1,259
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 96.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 23.8
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) 56.1
Turning Circle 39.4 ft
Approach Angle 28 degrees
Departure Angle 25 degrees
Breakover Angle 20 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating
NHTSA Frontal Crash
NHTSA Side Crash
NHTSA Rollover 4/5 stars
IIHS Award Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front
Moderate Overlap Front Good
Side Impact Good
Headlights Rating
Front Crash Prevention
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display 6.5-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster Analog with Multi-Function Display
Apple CarPlay No
Android Auto No
Navigation System Optional
Audio System 8-speaker AM/FM/CD
Speaker Count 8
Wireless Charging No
Wi-Fi Hotspot No
OTA Updates No
Digital Key No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty 5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty 12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance 3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance 3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier Aisin
Gear Ratios 1st: 4.15, 2nd: 2.37, 3rd: 1.56, 4th: 1.16, 5th: 0.86, 6th: 0.69
Differential Type Electronic Locking
Cooling System Capacity 8.5 qts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA 15,275

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2009 Tiguan is recognized in the used market for its premium interior quality and driving dynamics that outperform many of its contemporaries. Prospective buyers should prioritize vehicles with documented service histories, specifically regarding the timing chain tensioner, which is a known point of failure in early EA888 engines. Carbon buildup on the intake valves is another common maintenance item due to the direct-injection fuel system. While the Tiguan offers a more engaging experience than Japanese competitors of the same era, owners should anticipate higher maintenance costs associated with European engineering. Today, it remains an appealing choice for those who value handling and cabin refinement over absolute cargo capacity or low-cost ownership.

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