Key Features of the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan

SEL R-Line Turbo 268-hp Engine

The new SEL R-Line Turbo model transforms the Tiguan’s character with 268 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, sending power through an eight-speed automatic. The result is strong passing power and confident acceleration that pairs well with the Tiguan’s composed ride and heavier steering feel noted in prior tests. This trim also brings standard all-wheel drive, making it an appealing choice for drivers who value year-round traction with added performance. Across the lineup, the Tiguan benefits from approximately 170 pounds of weight reduction thanks to strategic use of aluminum suspension components and high-strength steel, which helps the chassis feel more eager while preserving a calm ride quality. Whether navigating dense city streets or merging onto the turnpike, the powertrain and platform work in concert to deliver a more athletic experience than many compact SUV rivals.

Digital Cockpit Pro and Available 15.0-inch Display

Every 2026 Tiguan includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen powered by Digital Cockpit Pro, giving you crisp graphics, fast responses, and a layout designed for clarity. The system retains a rotary volume knob and physical control for drive modes, keeping essential functions simple when you want tactile control. Shoppers who prefer a bigger canvas can opt for an available 15.0-inch display with expanded real estate for navigation, media, and key vehicle settings. Wireless device charging comes standard so cords do not clutter the console, and the available head-up display projects essential information right into your line of sight. Combined with precise steering-wheel controls and configurable digital instrumentation, the Tiguan’s infotainment suite is designed to reduce distraction and help you feel at home from day one.

4Motion All-Wheel Drive and Chassis Tuning

Volkswagen’s available 4Motion all-wheel drive is tuned to deliver secure traction in rain and light snow while maintaining the Tiguan’s balanced road manners. With the SEL R-Line Turbo, 4Motion is standard, and the model’s added power pairs nicely with the platform’s weight loss to deliver a more responsive feel. The suspension focuses on confident control without getting harsh, and the steering communicates enough road feel to add to driver confidence. Physical control for drive modes makes it easy to tailor responses for conditions on the fly. The net effect is a compact SUV that behaves like a well-sorted sport sedan when you want it to, yet remains comfortable and quiet during daily commutes and longer trips.

Comprehensive Driver Assistance and 10 Airbags

The 2026 Tiguan enhances its safety story with additional airbags — including driver knee, center, and rear side — for a total of 10. Standard driver assistance includes automated emergency braking with forward-collision warning, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering. These systems are tuned to help reduce fatigue on crowded highways and add an extra layer of awareness on busy surface streets. The visibility-friendly design, clear camera views, and intuitive alerts combine to make maneuvering in tight spaces or heavy traffic more straightforward. Volkswagen’s warranty and included maintenance schedule further simplify ownership, with four years or 50,000 miles of limited coverage and two years or 20,000 miles of regularly scheduled maintenance included at no charge.

Versatile Cabin and Cargo Solutions

The Tiguan remains a five-passenger SUV with more cargo space than before, making it easy to fit strollers, sports gear, or luggage. The second row’s 60/40 split lets you carry longer items while keeping seating open, and the move to a column-mounted shifter yields a larger center console with increased storage for daily carry. Material quality gets a boost across trims, with available leather upholstery and genuine wood accents contributing to a premium feel. Comfort-focused options such as power-adjustable massaging and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and three-zone climate control elevate longer drives. Add the available 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio, and the Tiguan’s cabin becomes a quiet, comfortable place to unwind on the way home or set the tone for a weekend escape.