By Otsile Kadiege 

One of the most anticipated cars this year is Volkswagen’s Tiguan with the full-blown R package. The potent Tiguan has finally arrived in South Africa joining Volkswagen’s T SUV range in SA which currently consists of the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg.

Tiguan R exterior design 

Exterior features of the new Tiguan R include bumpers in ‘R’ design, exterior mirror covers in matt chrome, a high-gloss black rear diffuser, black wheel housing extensions, 20-inch Misano alloy wheels, Lights and Vision Package, panoramic sunroof and Park Distance Control (front and rear). The new Tiguan R also comes available with a choice of six exterior colours.

Tiguan R interior design and technology 

Inside, the Tiguan R sets itself apart from the rest of the crop with standard features such as premium Nappa leather seats with an ‘R’ logo, a customised Digital Cockpit with an integrated lap timer, as well as a Carbon Grey decorative trim. Additional standard features include the Discover Pro system with satellite navigation, Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control as well as Keyless Entry with safelock and an electric tailgate and luggage compartment and the panoramic sunroof.

Tiguan R optional extras

Optional features in the Tiguan R include the trailer hitch, IQ.Light LED Matrix Headlights, Akrapovič Exhaust, 21-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Head-Up Display, Mobile Inductive Charging System, Harman Kardon sound system, Area view camera system with Park Assist and Park Distance Control, Rear view camera system with Park Assist and Park Distance Control, IQ.DRIVE: Adaptive Cruise Control (which can be coupled with Lane change assist with side assist, park assist and autonomous emergency braking) as well as the Trailer Manoeuvring System with Park Assist.

Tiguan R performance 

Powering the new Tiguan R is Volkswagen’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA 888 engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard. The powerplant develops 235kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Volkswagen claims the new Tiguan R accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 5.1 seconds and its top speed is capped at 250 km/h. Fuel-consumption for the Tiguan R is at a claimed 7.8l/100km. 

Tiguan R pricing and warranty 

Tiguan R 2.0 TSI 235kW DSG 4Motion – R999,900

The Tiguan R comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 100 000km EasyDrive Maintenance Plan and a 12-year anti- corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.