Motoring is due to get more expensive for UK drivers in 2012 with BIK tax revisions, escalating fuel prices and a fuel duty rise expected in August.
That means now, more than ever, a sensible, frugal and efficient car is more important than ever.
I re-tested the new Tiguan 2.0-litre TDI 140PS 4MOTION with a six speed manual transmission and S specification.
This popular version has an on-the-road price of £23,280 and with the strictly sensible buying approach to reduce costs and taxes I think it is the best buy in the whole range.
Necessity over cosmetics
Being the lowest S spec doesn't mean it is basic inside or out. It has 16-inch alloy wheels, climatic air conditioning, a DAB radio and CD sound system, alarm with central locking, electric windows and mirrors, electronic stability control which includes electronic differential lock and traction control, a full range of airbags, battery energy recapture during braking, stop/start function, an annoying electronic parking brake, on-board computer and split folding rear seats.
So paying the minimum price for the best diesel engine in terms of performance against fuel economy and CO2 emissions is a good move.
Customers still get the four wheel drive function - even with this lowest specification - so owning the S level is no hardship. True, the interior looks a bit bland and monotone with not much in the way of detailed trim, but why pay more for glitz which doesn't add to the vehicle's capabilities?
'Impressive to live with'
I briefly tried the new Tiguan range a few months ago at its press introduction and was impressed by the quality of ride it offered, the precise control of its taught and well balanced chassis and the responsive engine. All these features generate from the VW Golf hatchback on which it is based.
I wanted a longer spell with the Tiguan to see if it was just as impressive to live with.
It was in most ways; only the bland interior and conservative exterior styling was less appealing.
It lacks visual impact but in the real-world that shouldn't matter too much because the fuel economy of 43mpg is a big selling point. True it didn't match the official Combined Cycle 48.7mpg, but then very few cars do return the official figure.
4Motion system and drive
The 4Motion system is seamless with the Tiguan running through the front axle most of the time with the rear axle only having ten per cent of the drive most of the time, just enough to balance the car and provide secure cornering.
Automatically, as required, the rear axle is brought into play step by step as more grip is needed and in extreme cases nearly 100 per cent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear wheels. The differential lock will stop torque power being lost through the spinning wheel, or wheels, when driving in snow or deeper mud.
It is not a heavyweight sophisticated off-roader but it does a good job in adverse conditions and improves on and off road driving safety.
Performance
The 2.0-litre 140PS (138bhp) engine with 320Nm (236lb ft) of torque from 1,750rpm is well known throughout the Volkswagen and associated in-house brands. It is responsive with progressive power delivery and, mated with the six-speed manual gearbox, is easy to drive.
Top speed is 116mph, it makes light work of motorway cruising speeds and the zero to 62mph acceleration time of 10.2 seconds makes this Tiguan is no slouch.
Other than its conservative styling and bland interior this Tiguan SUV adds up to a sensible, less taxing buy for an SUV and that must be a big advantage for a frugal New Year.
Milestones
Volkswagen Tiguan S 2.0-litre TDI 4MOTION 140PS, 6-speed manual.
Price: £23,280.
Engine/transmission: 2.0-litre, four cylinder, direct injection turbodiesel, 138bhp, 236lb ft5 of torque from 1,750rpm, 6-speed manual, 4MOTION all wheel drive.
Performance: 116mph, 0-62mph 10.2 seconds, 48.7mpg (43mpg actual) CO2 150g/km, VED road tax £130, BIK company car tax 23%.
Insurance group: 18E.
Dimensions/capacities: L 4,426mm, W 1,809mm, H 1,703mmn, boot/load space: 470 to 1,510-litres, maximum braked towing weight 2,000kg.
For: Easy to own, easy to drive, easy on the pocket running costs, strong and responsive engine, seamless 4x4 variable traction system, well equipped, comfortable ride, well balanced handling.
Against: Looks bland inside and out, rear visibility is limited, non user-friendly electronic handbrake.