Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line

There have been some niggles. I've noticed a few interior squeaks and rattles developing after 5,000 km.

The 12.58 kmpl ARAI mileage is achievable on the highway. It's a very practical performance SUV.

The ground clearance of 176 mm is adequate for city roads, but you have to be careful on steep speed breakers.

I took delivery of the Tiguan R-Line last week. It's a dream come true. The 201 bhp engine is just so responsive.

Considering the price, the interior could have had more soft-touch materials. Some lower plastics feel a bit hard.

The engine can get a bit noisy when you push it past 4,000 rpm. The mid-range is punchy, but the top end feels strained.

It's expensive to maintain. The servicing costs are quite high, and insurance premiums are also on the steeper side.

The DSG can be a little jerky at low speeds in stop-and-go traffic. It's smoother once you get moving.

The lack of physical buttons for climate control is frustrating. The haptic touch controls require looking away from the road.

The ride quality over broken city roads is a bit firm. You can feel sharp-edged bumps quite distinctly inside the cabin.