Volkswagen introduced a new generation of the Tiguan compact crossover last autumn, but this version isn’t intended for the U.S. market.
In contrast, the U.S. will be receiving a larger variant of the Tiguan that is different from the international model, with an official reveal scheduled for November 20, just ahead of its formal introduction at the 2024 Los Angeles auto show later that week. To generate interest, VW released a teaser photo on Thursday showcasing the design of the new Tiguan’s taillight.
Pablo Di Si (left) and Mate Rimac
While VW has not provided further specifics, Pablo Di Si, CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, alluded to the potential for a hybrid powertrain in a September interview with Automotive News. He expressed a desire for VW to offer hybrid options in the U.S. and noted that the latest global iteration of the Tiguan features a plug-in hybrid variant.
“We have the technology, we know how to do it, and we’ll adjust the portfolio in the next couple years,” he stated.
Global Volkswagen Tiguan
The last hybrid vehicle offered by VW in the U.S. was the Jetta Hybrid, which was discontinued in 2016.
Di Si shares the sentiment of many industry leaders advocating for hybrid vehicle launches to meet the increasing demand for electrified options that retain a traditional gas engine. Numerous automakers are reversing their initial plans to exclusively market electric vehicles. A senior executive from Jeep recently indicated that the brand may introduce more affordable traditional hybrids to complement plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.
The revamped U.S. version of the Tiguan will be revealed as a 2025 model. It will utilize the same updated MQB platform as the international Tiguan and is anticipated to share significant design elements with the recently redesigned Chinese-spec Tayron that has been spotted during testing.
Additionally, VW is also conducting tests on an updated Atlas midsize SUV, expected to launch as a 2026 model.
Image Source: Best Auto Photo / Shutterstock
