SUV

Exploring the 2023 VW Tiguan 1.4 R-line

Do you recall the days of youthful creativity, boundless imagination, and the thrill of endless possibilities? We all once envisioned ourselves behind the wheel of powerful cars, perhaps not an SUV, but life has its way of steering us towards the practical. The reality often leads us to settle for the convenience of hatchbacks and sedans like the reliable Golf or Corolla.

Yet, SUVs, those imposing steel boxes on stilts, have undeniably conquered the automotive world, and I found myself delving into their history to understand why. The roots of SUVs trace back to the pre-World War II era, with rugged off-road vehicles like the Willys Jeep Station Wagon and the Toyota Land Cruiser laying the foundation. Over the years, SUVs evolved to meet the demands of suburbanization, eventually becoming a symbol of modern lifestyles.

Curious about the SUV craze, I decided to experience it firsthand with the 2023 Tiguan 1.4 R-line, graciously provided by Tavcor Mastercars.

In Lapiz Blue, the color evoked memories of my previous Golf R, creating a sense of nostalgia. The Tiguan's design retains the familiar VW evolutionary approach, with subtle enhancements to its features, especially in the front.

Inside, the Tiguan boasts a premium interior, adorned with soft-touch materials and comfortable seats equipped with winter package perks like seat warmers. However, the 1.4-liter engine, producing 110kw of power and 250N-m of torque, left me contemplating whether the 2.0-liter version with 4-motion would offer a more fitting experience for its size.

Now, the elephant in the room—the SUV debate. Living in the city, I questioned the logic of owning an SUV. In my opinion, the term "Sport" in SUV refers more to adventure than athleticism, emphasizing the capability to tackle rough terrains and enable outdoor activities. So, should you buy one? The answer lies in your preferences.

The Tiguan, priced at R699,995.00, offers city comfort and the potential for weekend getaways. It's quiet, spacious, and equipped for occasional countryside ventures. Personally, I lean towards the Tiguan but with a larger engine. If you're intrigued, check out the details below; who knows, my man Ntsika at Mastercars might have a tempting offer for you.