Step up to the SE or SEL and the automatic transmission is standard, while the manual is unavailable. Also, both the SE and SEL can be ordered with VW's patented 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
The base Tiguan S comes well-equipped with features like keyless entry, central locking, power windows, air conditioning with pollen and odor filter, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, anti-slip regulation, electronic differential lock, engine braking assist, electronic brake pressure distribution, electronic stabilization program with brake assist, and a long list of safety features.
My tester was a base unit with the manual transmission. But my tester hardly felt like a typical base model. Clutch pedal feel and the 6-speed manual in my tester were very likable. The vehicle accelerates nicely. The shifts are precise. The level of road and engine noise is minimal.
My only complaint is that the fuel economy (19 city/26 highway) in my base S tester wasn't as good as I expected. Aside from that, the ride is comfortable and the vehicle feels very stable at highway speeds. If you're in the market for a compact crossover, make sure to drive the Tiguan.
2009 Volkswagen Tiguan S
Engine: 2.0-liter (200 hp) turbocharged I-4
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Drive type: FWD
Fuel economy: 19 city/26 highway
Base price: $23,200
As tested: $24,240 (including $690 for destination)
Web site: www.vw.com