Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace vs. its rivals: Which makes more sense to buy next month?

The Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace was launched in August 2020 with a price of RM209,575.79 for Malaysian SUV buyers. At the time there were some who were surprised with this selling price because about 10 years ago the first generation Tiguan arrived in Malaysia with a price tag of RM236,888. Yes, the first Tiguan was a fully imported SUV, however, it was a 5 seater and with no R-Line accessories added to it.

This all-new Tiguan 7-seater version is called the ‘Allspace’ and it gets a complete R-Line package included. It is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine (similar to the engine found in the Volkswagen Arteon) and delivers 220bhp and 350Nm of torque.

So, when you take a closer look at the long list of features and safety equipment included in this locally assembled Tiguan, you will see why it has been selling well since its launch.

However, this VW Tiguan has a number of rivals in its segment and some of them offer bigger space, better off-road capability, different levels of cabin comfort, brand image and even a large price gap.

Let us explain further.

We will start with its immediate rival which is also a German brand but with a higher brand image and selling price. The Mercedes GLB arrived in September last year in three variants. The pricing for the GLB starts from RM269k for the GLB200 to RM318K for the GLB250. The AMG version of the GLB is priced at RM363k and carries just 5 seats so we will not include it as a rival.

Then we have the very popular and sleek looking Mazda CX-8 which sells from RM180k for the petrol version to RM217k for the 2.2 Diesel that carries all the ‘bells and whistles to compete for head-on with this Tiguan.

From Korea we have the Hyundai Santa Fe which is priced from RM189k and is equipped with a host of safety, comfort features and a very competent off-road 4x4 system. There is also the Kia Sorento which is a much older model, so we will wait for the arrival of the 2021 Sorento which is around the corner.

From France we get the latest version of the Peugeot 5008 with its 1.6L turbocharged engine and it is priced at RM177k. This has just arrived in Malaysia and carries similar features and cabin space but does not have the added driving zest that Tiguan’s 2.0L engine delivers.

Last on the list of the Nissan X-Trail which sells from RM140k for the 2.0L version to RM160k for the 2.5L 4x4 version. It is the oldest in the group however it carries the best selling price in this challenging economic situation.

As you can see, the Mercedes GLB is priced much higher as it carries a more premium brand image, despite being a German brand as well. The Mazda CX-8 and Hyundai Santa Fe are the closest rivals and despite their very close similarities in equipment, performance, safety and comfort, the Mazda seems to be the more popular model of the three right now.

The 5008 is still new and will need some time to gather its popularity. The arrival of the 2021 model Kia Sorento might be the SUV to watch out for in coming months as it is a very handsome looking 7-seat SUV and with class leading features. Plus, now with a new brand guardian in Malaysia we could see some 7-seat SUV buyers taking this home.

We suggest you take a test drive of the above-mentioned models and then make a final decision.

VW Tiguan AllSpace R-Line 4Motion Specifications:

Engine: 4-cylinder Direct Injection Turbo

Displacement: 1984cc

Transmission: 7-Speed DSG

Max power: 220bhp @ 4,500-6,200rpm

Max torque: 350Nm @ 1,500-4,400rpm

Top Speed: 223km/h

0-100km/h: 6.8secs

Price: RM208,553.79

Also Read: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace Highline vs Tiguan Allspace R-Line: Which one should you buy?