2012 Volkswagen Tiguan shows its new face in Geneva

The Volkswagen Tiguan is getting a makeover for the 2012 model year, and the changes will be on display this week at the Geneva Motor Show. Changes include a refreshed front end that incorporates the automaker's new sullen yet distinctive aesthetic.The grille has been remade to mimic that of the new Jetta and Passat, with a pair of horizontal chrome strips that blend into the Tiguan's updated headlamps. Jumping up to the top SEL trim will net you updated peepers with Bi-Xenon lamps and the LED eyeliner treatment that seems to be all the rage these days. Volkswagen still hasn't released a photo of the Tiguan's new boot, but the post-jump press release tells us that the taillamps have been updated to reveal a "double L" pattern. SEL buyers will also get new 19-inch "Savannah" wheels designed by R GmbH.VW made minor enhancements to the Tiguan's interior as well, including updated material choices and a rash of standard features. All 2012 Tiguan models will receive an eight-speaker sound system and Bluetooth, aux-in and heated side view mirrors.The Tiguan will retain the excellent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but fuel economy has been given a serious bump. VW claims the updated engine will fetch 29 miles per gallon in highway driving, up considerably from the 25 mpg of the outgoing model. - Autoblog