Volkswagen is promising a more powerful, yet more fuel-efficient Tiguan SUV.

The automaker unveiled the third generation of the popular SUV in Los Angeles. The new model is launching for the 2025 model year.

The fully redesigned Tiguan rides on VW’s MQB evo platform and gets bold styling with all-new sheet metal, shorter rear overhang and a slightly longer wheelbase.

The 2-litre turbocharged engine produces 201 hp, up from the current 184 hp, and promises better fuel efficiency as the vehicle is losing around 170 pounds, Volkswagen said. EPA-estimated fuel economy is not yet available.

The vehicle’s front-end is bolder while the headlights are slimmer and the roofline is extended with a spoiler that helps improve fuel efficiency.

Aluminum alloy wheel sizes range from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim selected.

Interior

The North American region, which includes the Canadian market, will get a two-row configuration only, whereas the outgoing model has an optional third row of seating that buyers can select.

The new interior is said to feature upgraded interior quality with a new clean design and premium materials, including genuine American walnut wood decor, and a wrapped and double-stitched centre console.

The gear selector is now on the steering column, which is said to free up space in the centre console.

There are screens aplenty as well.

Standard features include a 10.25-inch digital gauge and a 12.9-inch centre display with a rotary dial for volume adjustment. The SUV features the automaker’s MIB4 infotainment system.

Available upgrades include a 15-inch infotainment screen, a head-up display, 10- or 30-colour ambient lighting (dependent on trim), and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Other available features include easy open/close tailgate, 12-way power front seats with quilted leather surfaces plus 10-point full-back massage and ventilation, heated rear outboard seats and heated steering wheel and three-zone climate control.

Safety

The vehicle gets Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive Level 2 driver assistance features across all trims. This includes Travel Assist, a semi-autonomous driving assistance system, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring, active blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, adaptive cruise control stop and go, a lane keeping system and Emergency Assist, a semi-autonomous vehicle assistance in a medical emergency, light assist, park distance control and exist warning. Park Assist Plus is available.

The vehicle also gets 10 airbags, up from the current six.

The all-new Tiguan is expected to be available in Canada in summer of 2025. Pricing will be announced closer to the launch date.

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