I was in the market for compact SUVs and started off with usual C-segment choices (Seltos, Kushaq, Elevate etc). But, after extensive research and few test drives, I pivoted to D-segment.
BHPian serenedrives recently shared this with other enthusiasts.
Hello BHPians, I recently bought a Tiguan. Thanks to the amazing Team BHP community for detailed official reviews and ownership experiences – it definitely helped me in my car-buying journey.
I was in the market for compact SUVs and started off with the usual C-segment choices (Seltos, Kushaq, Elevate, etc). But, after extensive research and a few test drives, I pivoted to D-segment and shopped for global platform cars that have better build quality, fit & finish, safety ratings, and powertrain over localised C-segment cars. Sure, C-segment cars are VFM, unlike D-segment cars that come with higher taxes. But I rationalised paying the D-segment premium keeping in mind:
- I use cars typically for a long time i.e 8-10 years
- Cars are only getting expensive. It is not just high taxes in India but car inflation is a worldwide phenomenon post-pandemic. E.g. 2024 New Tiguan or Kodiaq are more expensive than previous-gen models even in Europe. Also, manufacturers are going with the CBU route over CKD (e.g. latest škoda superb). D-segment is a niche market in India and I doubt cars will ever get cheaper than current price points.
Once I settled on the D-segment, it was an easy decision due to a limited number of choices. Though Jeep Compass/Meridien and Hyundai Tucson are fantastic options, I wanted to avoid diesel cars and opted for Tiguan:
- Typical VW traits (fun to drive, explosive 2.0L TSI, smooth DSG, driving dynamics)
- Practicality of a Crossover – It has a reasonably good road presence and feels safe driving on our (often chaotic) highways; yet effortless to drive in city traffic.
- Understated styling with timeless design – I personally love this over Tucson’s more radical design.
I paid a net 37L on-road Mumbai for Dec 2023 with an extended warranty and service package. I considered Kodiaq too and appreciated the extra features (advanced suspension, better audio, 3rd row, extra airbags, better seat fabrics) but I didn’t want to stretch my budget further. As a matter of fact, I think Tiguan has a few advantages over Kodiaq – better adaptive headlights (IQ.light), heat-insulating glass, and real-time TPMS on screen.
I have driven over 1100 kms. Impressions so far:
- Fun to drive – 100%. Every drive brings a smile.
- NVH levels are simply superb
- The driver seat is amazing – plenty of adjustments, minimal fatigue even after a long driv
- I had apprehensions about firm ride quality on bad roads earlier but as other members have mentioned, it’s far from being a deal breaker. With tire pressure set to 33 psi, the ride is reasonably compliant even on patchy Mumbai roads.
- Mileage is mediocre as expected – ranges from 5km/L in bumper-to-bumper traffic to 13km/L in highway drives around Mumbai.
- Auto-hold is handy in traffic, but not sure if this will wear DSG faster in typical Indian conditions. Any advice here from other owners will be highly appreciated.
The rid
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