Volkswagen is continuing testing on the 2027 Tiguan R, with new spy photos showing the SUV’s interior for the first time. These images also reveal a key detail confirming the car’s updated powertrain: a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre TSI engine.
More Sporty Design with Subtle Differences
The latest sightings include two Tiguan prototypes that look very close to the current Tiguan R-Line but have clear distinguishing features. The front bumper reveals a visible intercooler radiator and a lower grille brace finished in glossy black instead of the usual satin chrome. The side mirrors show variations between the two prototypes, and large 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 255mm wide tyres are borrowed from Audi Sport. Four exhaust pipes are another unmistakable sign of the sporty Tiguan R.
However, more distinctive elements like blue brake calipers and perforated front brake discs – typical of the Tiguan R – are not visible yet, likely to be kept under wraps during testing.
First Look Inside and Mild-Hybrid Confirmation
For the first time, the instrument cluster of the next Tiguan R can be seen clearly. The digital display is 10.25 inches, similar to the base model, but notably features a blue rev counter bar extending up to 1,000 rpm. This blue accent strongly suggests the presence of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system paired to the 2.0 TSI engine.
The rest of the dashboard resembles the standard latest Tiguan, with a large 15-inch touchscreen on the centre console replacing the smaller 12.9-inch unit found on other trims. Inside, the front seats have leather and Alcantara upholstery, highlighted by the embossed “R” logos on the headrests and contrasting blue stitching matching the mild-hybrid theme.
Technical Details and Market Outlook
Volkswagen has not officially confirmed the full specs or launch date, but reports suggest the Tiguan R will debut in early 2027 and reach showrooms later that year. The upgraded 2.0 TSI now uses 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, producing over 300 hp. It will feature all-wheel drive (4MOTION), a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, and an adaptive suspension named “DCC Pro” that incorporates torque vectoring for improved driving dynamics.
Volkswagen appears to have dropped plans for a plug-in hybrid version of the Tiguan R, likely due to the weight penalty such a system would bring. The current Tiguan eHybrid offers 272 hp but is heavier and less focused on sporty handling than the expected Tiguan R. Price-wise, the previous generation Tiguan R started around €74,000, so the new model is expected to carry a similar premium.
More details about the 2027 Tiguan R should become available closer to its official launch.
Source: motor.es