Classic Volkswagen - Mentor, OH

Many of the most popular comfort and convenience features-including air conditioning, cruise control and keyless entry-are standard across the model line. Top-of-the-line SEL models add dual-zone Climatronic climate control, power front seats, and leather upholstery. The SEL also gets a powerful Dynaudio 300-watt, 8-channel sound system.

Standout options include a panorama sunroof that brings about 13 square feet of glass, as well as a touch-screen navigation system with wide-screen display and available real-time traffic data. Included with the navigation system is a 30-gigabyte hard-drive system that not only stores map data but also functions as a jukebox for 20 gigabytes of audio files. An SD memory slot and iPod and USB interfaces are also offered, and the sound system is DVD-Audio compatible.

For 2010, the Volkswagen Tiguan sees no major changes, though it receives a small facelift, a revised instrument panel with white backlighting and new Xenon headlamp units.

Sporty handling; cargo space; safety features

Volkswagen has positioned the Tiguan as a sportier alternative to other vehicles its size, calling it the "GTI of sport-utility vehicles". Its turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces more power than the base engines in other compact utility vehicles while being more fuel-efficient than V6-powered engines in its class. The Tiguan's tall body allows a much more spacious interior than a compact car. Volkswagen includes complimentary scheduled service for three years or 36,000 miles.