New look, more tech for Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace

AS PROMISED last week, Volkswagen has debuted its new updated Tiguan Allspace with the seven-seater being treated to a new face, a comprehensive technology update and more standard equipment from the factory ahead of its arrival here early in 2022.

The facelifted version has grown by 22mm to now measure 4723mm from nose to tail with all of the extra metal stemming from the redesigned front which takes most of its cues from the Mk 8 Golf – just like the regular Tiguan.

Keeping it in line with its smaller stablemate, three trim levels – Life, Elegance and R-Line – will be offered globally with the choice of five different powertrains (three petrol and two diesel).

Befitting on their nameplates, each different trim level will flaunt differing styling cues with the Elegance set to flaunt various chrome-plated trim both on the exterior and within the cabin while the sporty R-Line will score a multifunction leather sports steering wheel with touch operation, Carbon Grey trim, digital cockpit and the option of 19- or 20-inch alloys.

Going by previous versions, we expect the newly updated Tiguan’s 110TSI, 132TSI, 162TSI and 147TDI engines all to be carried across while a second, a more potent diesel engine is set to be offered in Europe.

All versions of the Allspace will reportedly come as standard with tri-zone climate control, the functions of which are accessed and control via a new digitalised module in the centre console with touch panels and sliders taking the place of traditional dials and buttons.

The tech upgrades continue with all variants being gifted a new colour head-up display and the new-generation IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist system which allows for semi-autonomous driving through a combination of the adaptive cruise control and lane keep assistance systems.

According to Volkswagen, the system can operate from 0-210km/h on automatic versions whereas the manual – available overseas – operates from 30-210km/h.

In terms of connectivity, the new MIB3 infotainment system will be included as standard and predictably sport both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility along with Bluetooth and various online services.

As previously reported by GoAuto, Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA) expected a roughly 50:50 sales split between the regular Tiguan and the Allspace when the seven-seater arrived here in mid-2018.

Such an even split never eventuated between the pair with the ratio in both 2019 and 2020 – the first two full years on the market together – being closer to 60:40 in favour of the five-seater.

VGA has sold 1686 Tiguan Allspaces so far this year ending April, earning the brand a 4.9 per cent share of the sub-$70,000 large SUV segment.

In contrast to 2019 and 2020, the regular Tiguan has been outsold almost three-times over by its bigger sibling (591 vs 1686).