All-New Volkswagen Tiguan Debuts With Physical Volume Knob And More Room

• 62 miles of electric range with PHEV model; DC fast charging now available
• New ergoActive massaging seats
• Enhanced DCC Pro suspension dynamics from Golf GTI
• Cargo capacity increased by 1.3 cubes
• IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights with 38,400 LEDs available
• Redesigned cockpit with physical volume knob surrounding mini screen
• European version - American model will differ

The all-new Volkswagen Tiguan has been revealed in Europe, and although our model will be slightly different, there's lots to unpack here that will make its way stateside. Powertrain details have not been fully revealed, but VW has said that the new plug-in hybrid system now boasts DC fast charging and enables "about 62 miles" of electric range. All models, regardless of powertrain, will be paired with a DSG automatic transmission, and while this will feature paddles behind the steering wheel on all models, the gear selector has moved to a stalk on the steering column, just like electric ID. models and the latest Passat.

The changes beneath the skin are minor as the MQB evo platform is still in use, but the really big changes happen in the design.

The entire styling language has been refreshed with radiator grille intakes appearing on the outer sides of the bumper to work with air curtains. Along with new headlights, the drag coefficient has improved from 0.33 to 0.28. The headlights are also available with IQ.LIGHT HD matrix technology that was developed for the Touareg, and when equipped, each headlight features 19,200 multipixel LEDs to enhance visibility (38,400 total). At the rear, the new headlights are balanced by a new LED strip. Wheels will arrive in diameters as large as 20 inches.

Before we move on, a quick word on safety systems. The Tiguan gets lane change assist, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, a rearview camera, and the Dynamic Road Sign Display system. Optionally, Park Assist Pro with remote parking and Trailer Assist are also available.

Inside, a full redesign sees the addition of the new Digital Cockpit, which includes an infotainment display as big as 15 inches (the base screen size hasn't been revealed). A new menu and graphics characterize the infotainment, and there's a new head-up display. Another highly anticipated detail is the addition of a new multifunction driving experience switch with its own OLED display. This changes the drive mode, radio volume, and background lighting colors, which resolves the biggest gripe that recent VW has encountered from customers. CarBuzz broke the story of returning physical controls for the SUV back in March, and we're glad to see that the German automaker has kept its word.

Another nice addition is new ergoActive seats with pneumatic four-way lumbar adjustment and a 10-chamber massage system. The seats can also be programmed to automatically activate heating or ventilation depending on outside temperatures.

The cargo area of the new Tiguan has grown by 1.3 cubic feet to 23 ft³. This measurement applies when the cargo area is stacked to the height of the rear seat backrests and is thanks to a 1.8-inch increase in the length of the vehicle.

Finally, the Tiguan ought to handle better than ever thanks to a revamped adaptive damping system. The optional DCC Pro system with its two-valve shock absorbers works with a Vehicle Dynamics Manager lifted from the Golf GTI. Along with the electronic differential locks, wheel-specific braking interventions, and selective shock absorber hardness changes, the Tiguan promises improvements in both comfort and agility.

European models are expected to arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2024, but a US release date is yet to be announced, as the American long-wheelbase variant will be based on the mechanically-related VW Tayron. Keep an eye out for a Peak Edition sometime next year, too.