A prototype for the next generation of Volkswagen’s popular Tiguan crossover has been spotted again.
The prototype is for the standard-wheelbase version the rest of the world gets, but a redesigned version of the long-wheelbase version sold in the U.S. should also be in the works. In other markets the long-wheelbase version is marketed separately as the Tiguan Allspace.
The lack of camouflage gear points to the redesigned Tiguan, the third generation of the nameplate, already being at a late stage of development. The reveal of the standard-wheelbase version should take place in 2023, with the long-wheelbase version to follow in 2024. A 2025 model-year launch in the U.S. is likely.
The photos show the design takes on a more fluid, more muscular look similar to the latest Touareg, which can be seen running alongside the Tiguan in some of the shots. There are also some similarities to the latest Golf, particularly at the rear, which looks to be extended farther than on the current Tiguan, likely resulting in extra cargo space. Fake exhaust tips can also be found at the rear, as the actual exhaust vents from underneath the vehicle.
The new Tiguan should use an updated version of its current MQB modular platform. The updated platform debuted in the latest Golf and its Audi A3 sibling, and features improvements in the areas of connectivity and electronic driver-assist features.
It isn’t clear what’s planned for the powertrains, but expect the current Tiguan’s assortment of 2.0-liter turbo-4 engines to carry over with minor tweaks, possibly including the addition of mild-hybrid technology. A plug-in hybrid option should also be available in some markets.
Our spy photographer has also spotted a test mule for what’s thought to be an electric Tiguan. Expected to arrive around the same time as its internal-combustion counterpart, the electric Tiguan will most likely ride on the MEB modular platform for electric vehicles, which features in the ID.4 and a host of additional Volkswagen Group EVs. VW earlier in December confirmed plans for a new compact electric crossover in its lineup.
The current Tiguan has proven a hit for VW in the U.S., with annual sales in this market exceeding 100,000 units for the last four years. The newcomer should further boost things, given the improvements likely pegged for the vehicles.
