OXFORDSHIRE motorists gave Volkswagen's new compact 4x4 the thumbs up at Motorworld's launch party. Orders were taken for the new Tiguan and the Oxfordshire dealership has a full diary for test drives over coming weeks.

More than 100 guests visited Motorworld's Volkswagen showroom at the Oxford Motor Park in Kidlington.

While they had a good look at the new model and took it for a test drive, their own cars received a complimentary valet. Visitors could also indulge in freshly cooked crêpes and non-alcoholic cocktails with Volkswagen-inspired names from the juice bar.

There were free draws to enter, with prizes including trips for two to New York, Cape Town and Los Angeles, and a satellite navigation system worth £300.

Sales manager Will Hicks said: "It was a really successful evening for us. We don't stage as many showroom launch parties these days, but the Tiguan deserved the limelight tonight. Our customers agreed and we've taken a number of orders for delivery in coming months.

"A lot of people like the idea of a four-wheel-drive car, especially in a rural county like ours, and they are drawn to the Tiguan because it's a smaller version with better fuel economy and a range of diesel and petrol engines. It's also a great looking car that feels big on the inside."

From launch, two engines are available - a 1.4-litre TSI 150 horepower petrol and a 2.0-litre TDI 140 horsepower diesel - and four trim levels, S, SE, Sport and Escape. Prices start at £19,370 for the S 1.4-litre TSI manual.