HERNDON, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc.'s 2009 Tiguan has earned a 5-star crash test rating from the government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

NCAP has primarily provided front and side crash test ratings, and more recently added a rollover rating -- all aimed at helping consumers in making their vehicle purchasing decisions. The rating results are relayed to consumers using an easily recognizable star rating system from 1 to 5, with 5 being the best a vehicle can achieve.

"Our vehicles have numerous safety technologies that work to help prevent accidents whenever possible, and help protect our occupants when an accident is unavoidable," said Mark Barnes, chief operating officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc.

The Tiguan comes with an award-winning 2.0L TSI engine that delivers turbocharged acceleration and fuel efficiency, with European-tuned suspension to enable precise handling. An electronic stability control system, Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), comes standard.