fuel efficient 4x4: volkswagen tiguan

If you're in the market for a fuel efficient 4x4 you should definitely test drive theVolkswagen Tiguan. Its the second most efficient 4x4 available in the U.K. and is a capable performer in all areas.

Four wheel drives are slowly shedding their reputations as gas guzzlers thanks to an influx of economical new 4wd's such as the VW Tiguan. Fitted with a 2.0 TDI engine this fuel efficient 4x4 is capable of 45 miles per gallon (UK) in the city, 59 on the open road and a whopping 53 mpg on the combined cycle.

Vitally there is still plenty of power from the engine to make light work of motorway overtaking and off road challenges. Acceleration is good and the car pulls well throughout the entire rev range. The Tiguan's diesel engine is refined too and very quiet. If you haven't driven a diesel in the last 10 years you'll be amazed at how they've changed.

The Tiguan has permanent four wheel drive called 4Motion. The car is in total control of the system and under normal driving conditions sends 90% of power to the front wheels to aid fuel efficiency. It is, however, capable of dividing power equally between front and rear wheels when required. An electronic differential lock is also available for off road adventures.

The Volkswagen Tiguan drives well both on and off road. On road it's nimble and responsive with low levels of body roll when traveling through corners. Off road it is surprisingly capable too, coping well with a variety of situations. Driver assist features include hill descent assist, reverse park assist and traction control.

Inside the Tiguan the seats are comfortable, the controls are all well laid out and easy to find. In short its a very nice car to drive. There's plenty of space for rear passengers too who will love the fold down aircraft style tables - an indication of just how much cabin room is on offer for a relatively small 4x4.

The Volkswagen Tiguan is well priced at around £20,000 in the U.K. but once you also factor in its low depreciation and solid reliability it begins to make even greater financial sense. This fuel efficient 4x4 comes well recommended.