The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the most popular compact SUVs in the world, selling more than 10 times as many units as the sporty GTI hatchback in the U.S. market. For 2025, the Tiguan is getting a major makeover, with a new design, new technology, and a new plug-in hybrid option. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming third-generation Tiguan.
A New Look for the Tiguan
The 2025 Tiguan will have a softer and more rounded appearance than the current model, taking cues from VW’s electric ID lineup. The front end will feature a large grille with LED headlights and daytime running lights, while the rear will have a sleeker tailgate with horizontal taillights. The new Tiguan will also grow slightly in size, adding about an inch in length to improve interior space and cargo capacity.
The new Tiguan will be available in several trim levels, ranging from the base S to the top-of-the-line SEL R-Line. The R-Line models will have sportier styling elements, such as larger wheels, black accents, and a more aggressive bumper. The plug-in hybrid versions will have a PHEV badge on the front fender and a charging port on the left rear quarter panel.
A Plug-In Hybrid Option for the Tiguan
There are two plug-in hybrid models available, each with a total output of 268 horsepower (200 kW) or 201 horsepower (150 kW). These models additionally employ a 19.7 kilowatt-hour battery, which enables them to travel up to 62 miles (100 km) on electricity alone. The car can now accept 11 kW from the AC charger and 50 kW from a DC fast charger when they are both connected.
Other available options are the ones with mild hybrid technology. The 48-volt starter/generator and 48-volt lithium-ion battery are connected to the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Engine operation with two pistons is possible with cylinder deactivation.
A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with either 201 hp (150 kW) or 262 hp (195 kW) of power is also available in the third-generation Tiguan.
There are still turbodiesel variants available. A 2.0-liter engine is available with 148 or 190 horsepower (110 or 142 kW).
A Tech-Savvy Interior for the Tiguan
The Tiguan’s interior boasts a brand-new concept and layout. It is distinctive due to the exceptional quality of the materials and workmanship. The new cockpit landscape also features a clean, clever design, is tightly integrated, and is easy to operate. The modules include a new head-up display (projections on the windscreen), a new multifunction driving experience switch with integrated OLED display, a new 38 centimetre (15 inch) infotainment screen with an entirely new menu structure, and a new Digital Cockpit (digital instruments with anti-reflective coating in tablet landscape format).
This innovative rotary control, which has a small screen of its own, may be used to adjust the radio volume, the driving profile, and the colours of the ambient lighting. On the other hand, the new IDA voice assistant allows for simple natural language adjustments to a variety of car and infotainment settings.
Safety
The Tiguan’s available safety systems include adaptive cruise control, hill start assist, park distance control, lane keep assist, lane change assist, and more.
Space
The length of the new Tiguan has increased by about three centimetres. Height, width, and wheelbase are nearly unchanged from the outgoing model. The latest generation’s luggage compartment capacity demonstrates how efficiently space has been utilised: even though the SUV is only marginally longer, its capacity has increased by 37 litres to 652 litres (when loaded up to the height of the rear seat backrests).
The Verdict
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is shaping up to be one of the most competitive compact SUVs in its segment, offering a new look, new technology, and a new plug-in hybrid option. The new Tiguan will appeal to buyers who want a stylish, spacious, and efficient vehicle that can handle various driving scenarios. The new Tiguan is expected to debut in late 2024 and go on sale in early 2025. Pricing has not been announced yet, but we expect it to be similar to or slightly higher than the current model, which starts at $26,440.
