Volkswagen Tiguan facelift SUV teased ahead of global launch
Volkswagen has teased a rendering of the upcoming mid-cycle facelift for the Volkswagen Tiguan SUV. The Tiguan is one of the more popular cars that the company makes globally, over 60 lakh units have been made since the first generation model debuted in 2007. It has also been the bestselling Volkswagen of 2019.
The sketch shows that the Tiguan's front fascia will be heavily revised. Most noticeable is the slimmer headlamp cluster with softer LED elements on them, reminiscent of cars like the Golf Mk8. The grille is also simpler now, wider and finished in black. This is again similar to newer VW cars like the T-Roc. The bumper has been made chunkier as well as have been the wheel arches, but how much of this translates to the production version remains to be seen. No pictures are available of the rear but we expect a different tailgate with slimmer tail lamps.
We think the interiors could derive from the simplistic, touch-heavy approach of the new Golf. A new infotainment system, minimal physical control, a new steering wheel design and a new virtual cockpit system should be the highlights. International models will pack more guidance and assistance systems.
The facelifted Tiguan will carry on with its MQB modular architecture. Also, engine options should continue as they are. We expect to see the 2.0-litre petrol as seen in India with its 190PS and 320 Nm. The 1.5-litre 150PS/250 Nm petrol as seen on the T-Roc and a 2.0-litre diesel with up to 190PS and 400 Nm should be available internationally. All these engines are expected to be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
There is no word yet on when the facelifted Tiguan will be launched in India. A global debut is expected later this year but we think this SUV will only make it here after Skoda-VW India 2.0 plan is fully up and running after the Taigun SUV is launched here. We expect prices to increase by around Rs 50,000 to one lakh for the Tiguan facelift.