Looking to buy Tiguan

[Bakks]

I'm looking at getting my girlfriend into a Tiguan and have a few questions. Apologies if they have been answered before, I have searched around.

It looks like the 132TSI / 125TSI seem to be the pick of the bunch (for our needs, bang for buck). From what I can see they run the same motor as the MKVI GTI and the 155 / 147 Tig and a simple tune can take them up to ~190 kw?

What is the difference between the model years? There seems to be an MY12 model upgrade from what I can see? Is this when the car went from the MKV style steering wheel to the MKVI style steering wheel, or was that earlier?

What's the reliability like on the 7 speed DSG? I know there have been issues with the DSG on other, older models of VW, but it seems they have improved things greatly?

Can the RCD510 be fitted easily (i.e. no CANBUS upgrade needed)?

Looking to spend low $30's for with <20,000 kilometers. Sunroof and leather would be ideal.

[Bambazonke]

Can respond to some of your questions
Rcd510 can be fitted to any Tiguan without a CANBus upgrade
The upgrade you refer to is MY10 Tiguans and later. The MY12 models have a different front grille,lights and tail lights and come std with Bluetooth MDI and few other energy saving features pending model

[tigger73]

Yes the 125/132/147/155 all have the same engine - only difference is the tune and all can be tuned up to ~190kW give or take a few kW.

Main model update was 3rd quarter 2011 when the new shape came out. This has new front/rear lights and shight chages to the front grille/rear bumper (to accommodate the new shape lights). Not sure about the steering wheels if there have been any changes, though most have multi-function and if you get DSG don't come with flappy paddles (unlike the Golfs which do).

I haven't heard anyone have any major mechanical issues with the DQ500 7 speed DSG. Though most of Tiguans are still reasonably new and only the first units sold are now out of warranty which is where it becomes more of an issue.... unless you do modifications to your drivetrain/engine in which case all bets are off whether it will be covered by manufacturer warranty.

Either RCD510 or RNS510 (with sat nav) can be relatively easily fitted (may need some software tweaks to enable various options). Check out the audio section of this forum as there's heaps of info there.

You should be able to pick up something with the options you're after for the $. As with any used car best to do your homework. If you're buying from a yard I'd always look to talk to the previous owner if you can as they can tell you if there's any major issues with the vehicle (crash etc).

[Bakks]

Thanks for the feedback guys, time go looking for a nice 125/132 I think.