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Volkswagen Tiguan Tops IIHS Roof Safety Rating

HERNDON, Va., April 2, 2009 – The Volkswagen Tiguan was rated one of the top small SUVs in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) new Roof Strength safety-test. Roof strength is a key factor in protecting vehicle occupants in a vehicle rollover -- vehicles rated “Good” must have roofs that are more than twice as strong as minimum federal safety standards require.

“We focus on safety technologies that help to prevent accidents and protect occupants, as seen by Volkswagen being one of the few manufacturers to offer Electronic Stability Control standard across our entire model line-up, and this recognition by the IIHS is further validation of that,” said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America. “We’re proud of the recognition the Tiguan has received from the IIHS, we know that this is an exceptional SUV, offering performance, functionality and safety.”

Volkswagen's compact sport utility vehicle previously received the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK award for 2008, the highest rating possible from the non-profit research organization. The annual award recognizes vehicles that perform best in protecting passengers in the Institute’s front, side and rear crash test evaluations, and includes only vehicles with electronic stability control and head protection airbags. The Tiguan has also received top ratings in the IIHS front and side crash testing.

The Tiguan comes standard with electronic stability control, branded ESP on Volkswagen vehicles, and six airbags, with rear seat airbags as an option. Tiguan is available in three trim levels, S, SE, and SEL. It is based priced at $23,200, reflecting the Volkswagen brand commitment of providing both tremendous value and affordable German engineering. Tiguan offers EPA fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Tiguan, the GTI of Compact Sport Utility Vehicles, also features the “fun to drive” handling and performance expected from a Volkswagen. Tiguan features a standard 2.0L TSI® engine that delivers turbo-charged acceleration while still delivering responsible fuel efficiency. This award winning turbo-charged four-cylinder power plant delivers 200 horsepower and 207 lbs. –ft. of torque. The combination of four valves per cylinder, direct fuel injection and turbo-charging delivers the optimum balance of power and economy. European tuned suspension enables connected handling, while also providing a smooth and compliant ride. Both front wheel drive and 4Motion® all-wheel-drive is available to suit any weather or road condition.

Tiguan, like all current 2009 model year Volkswagen vehicles, is included in the no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program. Under this program all of Tiguan’s scheduled maintenance, as described in its maintenance booklet, is covered for the length of the New Vehicle Warranty—three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg 2 and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2009 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com to learn more.