Sacrificing utility in favor of style
It might surprise you that the latest addition to Volkswagen of America’s 2021 Enthusiast Fleet lineup is the Tiguan. The Tiguan isn’t exactly the most exciting model out of Wolfsburg. This is especially true when you consider that VoA unfortunately doesn’t sell the high-performance R version, which was launched in Europe with the compact crossover’s mid-cycle facelift.
But I digress. The VW Tiguan SE Black RiNo Concept is what it is known as. The low-slung crossover, named after Denver’s Riverside North Arts District, was designed by Jamie Orr and included a variety of aftermarket accessories. The most noticeable change is the low ride height thanks to a height-adjustable coilover suspension. This suspension is complemented by 20-inch custom tires with a matte anthracite finish. 285-mm tires are wrapped around the wheels.
For maximum stopping power, the front axle was fitted with six-piston brakes. Additional upgrades were made to the sinister crossover, including aluminum side steps in black to match the body and a stainless-steel Borla exhaust with shiny black quad tips, reminiscent of the TiguanR.
Although there are three spoilers on the rear end, they have been carefully applied to keep the OEM look as close as possible. The Tiguan’s rear end looks a bit cleaner with a rear wiper remove. However, since Orr is a keen cyclist, a Thule T1 bicycle rack with a carbon-fiber bike was added.
The Tiguan Black RiNo Concept also made some changes inside the cabin. It has the dock and hook combination base that can be used to store a helmet for a bicycle. A built-in air compressor and tire valve connectors for cars and bikes was installed to illuminate the crossover’s cargo area.
The CNC-made shift knob, which is compatible with the DSG transmission, comes complete with a hand-stitched Alcantara covering. Orr has filmed a video showing the Tiguan in action. It’s safe to assume that he has a fondness for the German brand. He currently owns 20 “rare or uncommon Volkswagens.”