2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Preview: 2013 Detroit Auto Show

For most people, the new 2014 Tiguan R-Line doesn’t matter. With a price tag likely to fall north of $35,000 when the diminutive sport/utility goes on sale in the third quarter of 2013, the new Tiguan R-Line appears to be aimed right at the rabid VW fan that is blissfully unaware of certified pre-owned (CPO) Audi Q5s.

What’s New for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line:

• Front- or four-wheel drive
• Based on Tiguan SEL
• Unique wheel/tire combo
• Sport suspension
• Flat-bottomed steering wheel
• Shifter paddles
• Side skirts
• Rear spoiler
• Metallic interior trim
• Black headliner
• Fender premium audio system

New 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line: Styling and Design

The new 2014 VW Tiguan R-Line looks good, the 19-inch wheels and performance tires giving the tall and stubby body proper stance and proportion. The cosmetic upgrades are barely evident on the outside, but the upgrades to the cabin, where the owner spends all of his or her time, provide a clearer difference between the R-Line and other Tiguan models.

New 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line: What’s Under the Hood

If you’re hoping for some performance upgrades, you’ll be disappointed in the Tiguan R-Line unless the only modification you’re interested in is a sport-tuned suspension and lower-profile rubber. This SUV is equipped with the same turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine as other Tiguans, generating 200 horsepower from 5,100 rpm to 6,000 rpm, and 207 lb-ft. of torque peaking across a flat plateau between 1,700 rpm and 5,000 rpm.

Take a look at that power curve. The numerals aren’t terribly impressive, but since either torque or horsepower is cranked over to MAX from 1,700 rpm almost to redline, a Tiguan feels much more energetic than mere figures would indicate.

A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard, driving the front wheels. Opt for VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, and the transmission adds a manual shift gate and a Sport mode.

New 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line: Features and Technology

A premium Fender audio system is standard on the new 2014 Tiguan R-Line, a feature currently unavailable for the Tiguan. However, we wouldn’t be at all surprised to discover that this sound system is offered on other 2014 Tiguan models next year. Otherwise, interior modifications include aluminum pedals, a flat-bottomed steering wheel with shifter paddles, metallic cabin trim, and a black headliner.

Standard equipment is shared with the Tiguan SEL. Highlights include bi-Xenon headlights with an Adaptive Front Lighting System, LED running lights, heated side mirrors, heated washer nozzles, heated front seats, and rain-sensing wipers. Additional features include 12-way power front seats, leather, a power sunroof, dual-zone climate control, a power tailgate, a navigation system, passive entry with push-button starting, a reversing camera, and Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming capability.

New 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line: What Autobytel Thinks

Based as it is on the top trim level, the Tiguan SEL, which starts north of $35,000, the new Tiguan R-Line is made for three kinds of people. The first kind of person is the driving enthusiast who, for whatever reason, would rather buy a Tiguan R-Line next year instead of a Golf R this year. The second kind of person is the one who wants a luxurious crossover suv without a luxury badge. The third kind of person is the one equates a price tag to “best,” as in: “I just bought the best Tiguan.”

Here’s a little bit of advice. Check out a certified pre-owned Audi Q5 before shelling out 35K or more for this VeeDub.