Seeing VDub-le – Volkswagen NZ hosted an action-packed launch event that brought together not one but two pivotal model releases, the all-new 3rd generation Tiguan and the 8th generation Golf facelift. Talk about seeing ‘dub-le’.
Firstly, let’s chat about the Golf. Originally launched in 1974, the Golf has become synonymous with the Volkswagen brand. And as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, this benchmark hatchback is getting a stylish mid-cycle facelift that coincides (serendipitously?) with this milestone.
With over 37 million units sold globally (and still counting), the Golf remains the best-selling Volkswagen of all time, yes more than the Beetle, and the latest enhancements aim to bolster these impressive figures.
The 8.5 Gen Golf sports a new front bumper design and sleeker, narrower headlights that exude a more modern edge. Notably, the sensors have been repositioned lower to enable an illuminated VW badge for the GTI model, enhancing its sporty appeal. And while on the matter of sporty, when it comes to the R-Line and GTI models, the hatch’s profile has been given a lick of bodykit style.
The alloys come in 17-20-inches (model dependant) and while the rear lights have undergone some updates, they’re subtle enough that only a ‘wookie in the wild’ would notice.
The Golf’s interior now boasts a more prominent infotainment screen, with upgraded tech, and several features that respond directly to their customer feedback, namely an illuminated slider below the screen and (aside from the GTI) buttons on the steering wheel rather than haptics.
As with the new Tiguan (that I’m going to tell you about), the infotainment voice control is now called IDA, and is more conversational than ever. Although rather ironically, mine was about as chatty as my wife when I’d forgotten her birthday. Also the same as my wife, I’m told it was ‘user error’!
The new line-up features a more base level 1.4L (110kW/250Nm) ‘Life’ model whose infotainment screen is pared back to 10.4-inches and has cloth seats etc. A 1,4L, ‘R-Line’ model with a 12.9-inch screen and more treats. And lastly a new 2L (195kW/370Nm) GTI model that comes with all the fruit they can currently throw at it. There is an R on its way but timing TBC.
Then there’s the All-New Tiguan, a giant step up in all aspects. As vital to Volkswagen as the Golf, the all-new 3rd generation Tiguan has arrived with a refined vision. Since its debut in 2007, the Tiguan has sold over 7.6 million units, quickly establishing itself as the brand’s top seller. The new iteration is not just a facelift; it represents a comprehensive redesign that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.
A little larger and undeniably more shapely, the Tiguan sports a more muscular nose and, depending on the model, features IQ matrix lighting and a signature horizontal light-strip. Its athleticism continues along the side with bolder wheel housings over its 19-inch alloys, a raised flick on the sills and both variants (currently Life and R-Line) get ‘Tiger’ and ‘Iguana’ easter eggs on the backseat glass – for Tig-uan. The rear also comes with a light strip and in the case of the R-Line, 3D LED lights!
Upon entering, you’ll notice the gear selector has been shifted to a stalk position on the steering column—a design element borrowed from VW’s ID range that enhances cabin space.
The tech has also seen significant upgrades too, with options for 12.9 or 15-inch infotainment screens. The customizable layout and voice interaction via the new IDA assistant make the cabin feel not only modern but incredibly user-friendly. Coupled with wireless app connectivity and two wireless charging pads. Rest assured, the Tiguan is designed for the digitally-connected driver (so I still have work to do).
Among the most exciting features are the driving modes that now include ‘Atmospheres,’ allowing drivers to choose different interior lighting moods. Enhanced safety technology comes standard, with an improved ADAS suite that integrates a centre airbag, advanced blind spot detection, traffic sign recognition, and improved pedestrian safety. Importantly, the Tiguan can even park itself, leaving the driver as a mere spectator in the parking process.
For our initial drive from Auckland city to Helensville, I was in the Tiguan R-line. And despite my initial thoughts of underpower, the 1.4L turbo engine (110kW/250Nm) got up to motorway speed without batting an eyelid. It also claims impressive fuel economy of 8.5l/100km and 192g/km of CO2 emissions. But if you do want more power (ok, who doesn’t), the R-Line AWD with195kW and 400Nm is on its way.
The cabin is very quiet and having the gear selector on the steering column did give me more room to breathe – or at least it felt that way. The tech is easy to interact with and as mentioned before, very personalisable. A turn of the dial in the centre switches things up to sport and the infotainment screen flashes up ‘atmospheres’ which changes the vibe and the colours on the dash and door cards.
Free of the city, the Tiguan is able to stretch its legs well and punches above its weight in the corners, especially for a front-wheel-drive, and although far from being a sports car, it will get you into licence-losing territory easily – just as well it has traffic-sign recognition aye!
The switch to the new Golf (particularly in its new Antarctic blue was a big contrast. It’s nimble and sporty even with the same powertrain credentials, I guess size does matter. I may have said this before, I’m a big fan of the Golf and it’s amazing that it’s just turned 50 – so young. More on the actual drive of the Golf soon as I took one home – unfortunately not to keep.
Volkswagen’s simultaneous launch of the Tiguan and Golf is not just a celebration of their legacy but a bold step into the future of driving. Both models reflect a commitment to blending innovation with practicality, ensuring that drivers are equipped with the technology, safety features, and performance they desire. Whether you are a lifelong Golf enthusiast or a family looking to upgrade to the spacious Tiguan, Volkswagen has you covered. Lovely dubly.
