2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace Review

I guess the name says it all really.

The Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace is the new seven-seater version of the SUV with extra space for added interior capacity and occupancy.

After we got a glimpse of the 110TSI at the vehicle launch, on the road this week were the petrol 132TSI Comfortline and diesel 140TDI Highline affording us a look at different trim levels and engine types.

The 132TSi is priced from $45,490 while you’ll need to fork out a bit more dosh for the range topping 140TDI at $54,490.

Exterior

The Tiguan Allspace is slightly longer than the standard variety and measures out at 4.7m compared with the nearly 4.5m Tiguan for an extra 215mm of total length.

Naturally it appears as a larger version of the standard Tiguan in design and profile, just elongated.

With a ground clearance of 201mm it isn’t huge by any stretch, though it is off-road capable.

Interior

The cabin has a nice blend of luxury and functionality, so while it doesn’t look lavish, it’s not el-cheapo either – sort of a comfortable elegance.

Angular lines on the doors and dashboard define this quality with both rows of rear seats being blocky and not padded out however still adequate in a smooth leather finish.

As expected, the third row of seats present cramped quarters – restricted legroom and headroom – but are ideal for their times when you have extra guests.

The seats themselves are easy to put up and put down from behind (latches are on the inside shoulders of the seats) and the middle row just as simply laid flat with release latches in the spacious boot.

Volkswagen again illustrates smart design in their vehicles with an under-floor storage area in the boot for the cargo blind. A fabulous idea for the heavy bar that often gets in the way when not in use which you would have otherwise remove altogether.

Features

The centre piece of the dashboard is of course the 8” touchscreen which is upgraded to a 9.2” display when moving from the Comfortline to the Highline.

These each present a different layout to the touch sensitive buttons bordering the screen and small inclusions like the RDS (Radio Data System) displaying, not only song title and artist, but the radio station logo. It’s touches like this that give a premium feel.

All other switchgear is methodically laid out, well placed and within easy reach. Rear passengers also get A/C controls to control the rear air vents.

Again the people at VW demonstrate thoughtfulness with convenient fold-up tray tables with integrated cup holders handy for kids in the back.

And additions like 4 driver personalisation profiles and a green indicator on top of graphical gauge for the cruise control speed all make life a little easier.

• Digital radio
• Sat-nav
• Powered tailgate
• Push button start
• Electric park brake with auto hold
• Auto start/stop
• Off road drive modes
• Adjustable headrests forward and back
• Panoramic sunroof
• Automatic tailgate

Drive and Engine

It’s what you’d want from a Volkswagen, a reassuring drive, great handling and a luxurious ride.

The most noticeable quality is that it’s really quiet on the inside; Volkswagen have done a brilliant job on insulation. It’s amazing how muted everything is in the cabin, like a different world.

Adding to sense of comfort is the compliant suspension, which makes you feel you’re sitting on a cushion.

Brakes are sensitive like a new age guy and the softer steering is easy to control.

The petrol 132TSI is a bit slow to accelerate at the low end but works its way through the gears smoothly due primarily to the dual clutch DSG.

Jump into the diesel and naturally you sense more lag but acceleration is steady and gradual and always feels grounded.

Shifting into sport mode improves the default state, but a relaxed sedate drive is likely to be the desired option.

With a big tank and if driven economically (I managed 7.3L/100km) you can manage close to an 800km range which is perfect for those long holiday drives.

Safety

• Adaptive cruise control/speed limiter
• Parking sensors
• Park assist
• AEB
• Pedestrian Monitor
• Lane assist

Good Bits

• Extremely quiet interior
• Clever design elements
• Interior styling
• Dynamics and ride comfort
• Advanced safety
• Technology

Not So Good Bits

• Cramped rear seats

Summary

The Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace was just all round pleasure to drive and I really could live with this car.

It’s an ideal family vehicle with a premium interior, clever design elements, copious storage, extra seating, and generous specifications.

Every component seems like it has an thought put into it culminating in a complete package.

The Tiguan Allspace is a must when considering a seven-seater SUV – if you can afford the price tag.

Facts and Figures: 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace

• Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder petrol producing 132kW/320Nm
  or 2.0L four-cylinder diesel producing 140kW/400Nm
• Transmission: Seven-speed automatic dual clutch
• Warranty: 3 years/ unlimited km
• Safety: Five stars
• Origin: Germany
• Price: from $46,990