Volkswagen’s much improved second generation Tiguan targets compact SUV and Crossover customers alike with a high quality, well priced package that’s now smarter and more efficient. All the car you’ll ever really need? Many see it as just that.

So, what’s new? Well, the conventional Tiguan has put on 60mm in length and 30mm in width and sits 22mm lower than before in 4x4 form. It’s certainly a more confident-looking car - and a more spacious one too. Inside, there’s a 77mm longer wheelbase, at 2681mm, and the tracks have also been widened, which greatly improves the Tiguan’s overall stance. The cabin’s classier too, fit and finish being of a noticeably higher standard than before.

The initial engine range is primarily based around a 150PS version of Volkswagen’s usual 2.0-litre TDI diesel, with the option of 7-speed DSG automatic transmission and 4MOTION 4WD. Rest to 62mph occupies 9.3s. There’s also a 1.8-litre 180PS TSI petrol variant which comes as standard with both 4MOTION 4WD and DSG transmission: this derivative makes 62mph in 7.7s.

The cabin’s classier too, fit and finish being of a noticeably higher standard than before. Much of the switchgear and the infotainment monitor will be familiar to anyone who has tried a MK7 Golf. Borrowed from the Passat is the optional Active Info Display high-definition instrument panel. You can also specify a Head-up display that uses a small glass panel, deployed from behind the instrument binnacle at the press of button. Luggage space has grown with the standard 60/40 split folding rear seats in place.

Overall, it’s not hard to see why the Tiguan is such a popular choice in its sector here in the UK. You get pretty much all the quality of premium-badged compact SUV for the price of a budget brand contender.

What it does offer in this improved form are running costs from an ever-more efficient range of engines that make the transition to a car like this from an ordinary family hatch less painful than ever. And an extra dash of polish in everything it does that’ll make you feel good when you’re at the wheel. A sensible choice then, but one you’ll enjoy making.

  • CAR: Volkswagen Tiguan
  • PRICES: £22,510-£36,375 – on the road
  • INSURANCE GROUP: 13E-T1 – 24E-T1
  • CO2 EMISSIONS: 123-170g/km
  • PERFORMANCE: [2.0TSI 180 4MOTION] 0-60mph 7.7s / max speed 129mph
  • FUEL CONSUMPTION: [2.0TSI 180 4MOTION] (combined) 38.2mpg
  • STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ABS, ESP, six airbags
  • WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/height 4486/1839/1657mm