Volkswagen Tiguan Estate 2007 - Present

The Tiguan is VW's first small off roader. It is stylish, well equipped and powered by some impressive engines, but It needs to be, as it's pitted against some of the best off-roaders around including the Nissan X-Trail, Honda CR-V and Land Rover Freelander. Despite being one of the newest VW models all of the underpinnings are unique to the Tiguan. Inside it looks great, is comfortable and there's plenty of room throughout. Buyers who crave extra off-road ability, can take the option of an 'Escape' model which is fitted with extra kit for added off-road ability.

Across the whole VW range the finish and quality are exceptional and the Tiguan is no exception. All on board should find it comfortable. The fit-and-finish of the cabin is excellent and there's an upmarket feel inside. Those who opt for the panoramic sunroof will get an exceptionally light interior. Legroom is a little tight in the back, though the car's width means that there's plenty of room for three in the back. On the move, Tiguan is quiet, with engine, road and wind noise well suppressed.

A 1.4-litre starts the line-up. An engine this small would usually be unsuitable for a car this size. However the 1.4-litre TSI is a very special engine as it's turbocharged and supercharged and squeezes out an impressive150bhp. It's a smooth and refined engine that's fun to drive and has plenty of power for overtaking on backroads. It's pretty quick, too, getting to 60mph in 9.6 seconds. The 2.0-litre TDI diesel has 140bhp and is a strong engine - proved by its ability to tow an impressive 2,500kg. It's a comfortable motorway cruiser, but also has the pace to make light work of B-roads. As you'd expect of a Volkswagen diesel, it's economical, too - owners can expect up to 39 mpg. All cars have a six-speed manual gearbox with the option of a tiptronic automatic if required. If you own a Tiguan you'll be chuffed every time you get behind the wheel.

Designed primarily for driving on tarmac, either urban or motorway, it's at home on either - and this is reflected in its strengths. It's easy to drive, comfortable and nippy enough for quick lane changes. Top models can even park themselves (either parallel or into a car park space) at the push of a button. All the driver needs to do is line the car up and work the brakes and accelerator - the steering is done automatically. Tiguan is able out of town, too. It corners well and despite it's tall shape doesn't suffer with body roll. On the motorway it accumulated miles on the clock with ease. Not really one for the serious off roader in it's standard form the Tiguan Escape model. - with shorter overhangs - is more capable. Tiguan uses a system whereby the on-board electronics sense when a wheel starts to slip. When this happens, power is increased to the other wheels to maintain traction; there's no low-ratio gearbox. It means that Tiguan can tackle muddy lanes with ease and get you out of trouble when it snows, but not a lot else. But for those who need occasional 4x4 capability, Tiguan is able to get itself out of trouble in the mud and there's some useful technology such as hill descent control, which makes life easier for the driver. If you are serious about your off road driving the Tiguan is probably not the car for you, but the Escape model does at least mean it's in the hunt.

The Tiguan is a good example of the benefits that off roaders have brought to road cars. You don't need to take the Tiguan off road to enjoy it's great engines and engaging drive.

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