Volkswagen has officially unveiled the third-generation Tiguan, following a series of online leaks. This updated SUV is set to hit international markets next year and has undergone significant restyling and re-engineering efforts, as confirmed by Volkswagen.
The new Tiguan is constructed on the MQB-Evo platform, a platform shared with various Volkswagen and Skoda models globally. Its development has closely paralleled that of the latest Passat sedan, sharing not only the platform but also many upgraded digital and connectivity features, including the latest version of VW’s MIB infotainment system and new over-the-air software update capabilities.
In terms of dimensions, the revamped Tiguan measures 4,539mm in length, 1,639mm in height (without roof rails), and 1,842mm in width. It is 30mm longer, 4mm taller, and equally wide as its predecessor. The wheelbase remains unchanged at 2,680mm.
The most notable changes can be found inside the vehicle. The third-gen Tiguan boasts a redesigned cabin with a cleaner appearance, upscale materials, enhanced technology, and increased interior space compared to its predecessor. The dashboard has been revamped to feature a new control matrix, illuminated trim elements, and updated air vents. It supports a 10.3-inch digital instrument display and comes with a central touchscreen infotainment display that measures either 12.9 inches as standard or 15.0 inches in the upgraded version.
The infotainment display includes a backlit slider controller similar to the one found in the latest Passat and ID 7. The steering wheel now features traditional buttons and switches instead of the touch-sensitive capacitive controls seen in the previous Tiguan. Additionally, a new center console houses a rotary controller for adjusting driving modes, audio volume, and various “Atmospheres,” which are pre-programmed settings for ambient lighting and other functions.
All new Tiguan models come with an automatic dual-clutch gearbox as standard, with the gear selector relocated to a stalk on the steering column. Volkswagen claims increased headroom by 8mm in the front and 10mm in the rear. Optional features include a new head-up display unit that projects information onto the windshield and a wireless phone charger.
The new Tiguan offers a range of powertrain options, including turbocharged four-cylinder engines. This includes a new mild-hybrid 1.5-litre petrol engine with 131hp or 150hp options in front-wheel-drive eTSI models. There’s also an updated version of the 2.0-litre petrol engine with 204hp and 265hp in two new four-wheel-drive TSI 4Motion models. The 2.0-litre diesel engine remains available with 150hp in front-wheel-drive and 193hp in four-wheel-drive TDI 4Motion models.
The plug-in hybrid Tiguan models have also been revamped, now using a 1.5-liter engine paired with a more powerful electric motor, offering up to 100km of electric range with a new 19.7kWh battery. The Tiguan is available with either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox (DSG) for petrol and diesel models or a six-speed DSG for plug-in hybrid versions.
As for its availability in India, the introduction of the next-gen Tiguan remains uncertain. However, Volkswagen is planning to launch a new three-row SUV in India, based on the Tayron SUV sold in China.
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