Frankfurt 2015: All-New 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan Revealed In Four Versions

The second generation Volkswagen Tiguan makes its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show today with three productions versions being introduced along with a plug-in hybrid concept that offers a preview on future developments of the SUV.

The four variants are - a sporty R-Line, a classic on-road model, and an off-road version tuned specifically for off-road use makes up the production versions for the all-new Tiguan. A plug-in hybrid concept comes in the form of the Tiguan GTE.

Being the first Volkswagen Group SUV to adopt the MQB (modular transverse matrix) platform, the all-new Tiguan is longer (60mm more) and wider (30mm more) than the outgoing model, but is lower by 33mm as well, giving it its sleeker profile with a drag coefficient of just 0.31. Now weighing in at 50kg less than the previous model, the cargo space seen an improvement by 145 litres with a boot space of 615 litres when loaded to the back of the rear bench. When the rear seat backrests are folded, it expands to a capacity of 1,655 litres.

The new Tiguan is also designed from the groundup to accomodate a longer wheelbase version aimed at the U.S. and China markets, where such a model is preferred and it will be introduced to other specific markets as well starting in the fall of 2016.

The exterior design of the new Tiguan doesn't differ much the official sketches released earlier, with a sharper and more upmarket look to the SUV embodying styling aspects from previous concepts like the CrossBlue and Cross Coupe GTE. This includes slimmer headlights and more angular front bumper that sees the fog lamps respositioned below faux air intakes (not present on the GTE concept).

The rear gets new and wider tailgate design that is flanked by more aggressive and thinner LED taillights. On the GTE concept,the bumper houses trapezoidal-shaped exhaust tips over the twin pipe design of the production versions.

Inside, the cabin has been completely redesigned to reflect that of other Volkswagen models in the lineup. The instrument cluster can now be specified with a digital Active Info Display while the Composition radio system features new connectivity features with in-car online services allowing for automatic accident notification, online traffic and parking space info, and vehicle status report.

The system is part of the second generation modular infotainment matrix (MIB II) system which includes the integration of Apple and Android smartphones via App connect and for tablets using the Media Control app.

Interior space also gains a boost with 25mm added on to the Tiguan's wheelbase allowing for 28mm more knee room for passengers seated in the rear. A new three-zone climate control system, dubbed Pure Air Climatronic ensures that passengers are kept cool and free of airborne pollutants whilst inside. Volkswagen also claim that the panoramic sunroof on its all-new Tiguan is the largest in its class as well.

Powering the next generation Volkswagen Tiguan are eight turbocharged, Euro-6 compliant engines with outputs ranging between 115PS to 240PS, which is not only more powerful but is claimed to be 24% more fuel efficient than in the outgoing model.

Of the eight, four of them are TSI petrol engines (125PS, 150PS, 180PS, 220PS) while the rest are TDI diesel units (115PS, 150PS, 190PS, 240PS). The base engines come in a front-wheel drive format but the other engines are available with the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system as standard or as an option.

An updated 4MOTION Active Control allows adjustments to the all-wheel drive system that uses a fifth generation Haldex coupling to distribute torque to all four wheels, for better adaptability to all possible driving conditions. Trailer loads of up to 2,500kg are also within the bounds of the vehicle’s drive system.

On Tiguan 4MOTION versions, the vehicle's ground clearance is 1cm higher at 20cm. Buyers can also specify a special off-road front end package that increases the approach angle to 25.6 degress with the departure angle remaining at 24.7 degress.

Driving assistance systems offered include Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, Lane Assist and the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, all of which comes as standard. Depending on market variants, technologies like adaptive cruise control (ACC), Pre-Crash occupant proctection, Emergency Assist, and Area View can be specified as well.

Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Concept

The production versions introduced are also accompanied by a plug-in hybrid concept known as the Tiguan GTE, which is powered by a 1.4-litre TSI engine with 154hp assisted by an electric motor (powered by a 13kWh lithium-ion battery) integrated into the six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox housing. Total system output is rated at 218PS with a claimed average fuel consumption (combined) of 1.9 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions figure of 42g/km.

Four modes for the drive system are available - E-Mode, Hybrid, Battery Charge, and GTE. On startup, the Tiguan GTE runs in E-Mode but after achieving a minimum battery charge level, it switches automatically over to the 'Hybrid' mode but the process is reversible for zero-emissions driving as well. A top speed of 130 km/h is possible on the electric motor alone.

Put it in 'GTE' mode and the concept opens up the taps to provide full system power and maximum torque. In this mode, the Tiguan GTE has a top speed of 200 km/h and manages to hit the century sprint in 8.1 seconds.