VW unveils Tiguan GTE Active 11 | 01 | 2016
VOLKSWAGEN HAS UNVEILED a rugged hybrid concept version of its new Tiguan. The Tiguan GTE Active showcases the driveline technology to be used by a more sedately styled production version of the new model initially revealed at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The newcomer is scheduled to enter Scottish dealerships before the end of this year (see more photographs of the Tiguan GTE Active).
Powered by a modified version of the petrol-electric hybrid system first unveiled in the Golf GTE, the Tiguan GTE Active has the ability to run in either front, rear or four-wheel drive depending on the chosen driving mode.
With two electric motors — one operating on the front wheels and the other on the rear wheels — the hybrid Tiguan also boasts the ability to head off-road in pure electric mode for short distances when its battery is sufficiently charged.
Not surprisingly, this is a feature Volkswagen is using to extoll the environmental credentials of the new five-seater.
Mated to a turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the electric motors help the new concept achieve a claimed combined average consumption of 75mpg on the US test cycle.
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And don't rule out the likelihood that the new Tiguan will adopt an off-road styling package as an option. It's clear the exterior styling changes on the Tiguan GTE Active concept give the normally conservative-looking SUV a more rugged, dynamic look. Allied to its increased ground clearance, there is obvious potential to deliver a production-ready model.
Volkswagen bosses themselves have hinted the look could become reality, after confirming the exterior off-road elements are “technically feasible for the production version”.
New bumpers — featuring prominent kickplates both front and rear — plus black exterior mirror housings, altered headlight surrounds, a more substantial tailgate mounted spoiler, new 16in wheels shod with high-profile all-terrain tyres, beefed-up wheel arch cladding, and a reworked aluminium roof panel incorporating auxiliary LED spotlights and roof bars all add to the new rugged look.
The Tiguan GTE Active also boasts a modified the chassis of the second-generation Tiguan. Specifically, the concept gets alterations to the ride height helping to boost its off-roading credentials. The reality it's now a possible rival to the likes of the highly capable Land Rover Discovery Sport.
Related: Roadtest — VW Golf GTE
While overall ground clearance has increased rom 180mm to 225mm, the approach angle has improved from 25.6 to 26.1deg, the departure angle is up from 24.7 to 29.9deg and the ramp angle has increased from 20.0 to 24.7deg: all of which boost its offroad capabilities.
When there is sufficient energy stored within its battery, the Tiguan GTE Active is programmed to start in electric mode. Drive is initially provided by the rear-mounted electric motor to the rear wheels.
When the driver requires greater performance by pressing teethe throttle, or when sensors detect a lack of traction, the front-mounted electric motor is engaged delivering front-wheel drive and endowing the new VW with four-wheel drive capability.
According to VW, the Tiguan GTE Active has an all-electric range of up to 20 miles, but only to a limited top speed of 70mph.
When the 1.4-litre petrol combustion engine comes into play, powering the front wheels, with all three power sources contributing to the drive process, VW claims a 0-62mph time of 6.4sec and a 120mph top speed.
In the interests of efficiency, at higher speeds the advanced hybrid system is programmed to rely exclusively on the combustion engine. Power is then sent exclusively to the front wheels and VW claims a combined petrol-electric range of 580 miles.
Inside the cabin of the Tiguan GTE Active, VW has also added new off-road-themed accents and trims. There's also VW's latest infotainment system, which includes a 9.2in touchscreen which supports gesture control as well as interfaces to run apps over Mirror Link, Android Auto and Car Play.
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Jim McGill