Volkswagen Tiguan PHEV confirmed for 2020 launch
Volkswagen will expand its range of plug-in hybrid models in 2020, launching a Tiguan GTE
Volkswagen has confirmed it will introduce a plug-in hybrid-powered Tiguan SUV before the end of 2020. It’ll sit alongside the Passat GTE, Golf GTE and range-topping Touareg R, expanding the German brand’s line-up of PHEV models to four.
The Tiguan is based on the same MQB platform as the recently launched Skoda Octavia vRS iV, so it could feature the same powertrain. The Skoda’s system comprises a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, a compact electric motor and a 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack, for a maximum output of 242bhp and 400Nm of torque.
As an added benefit, the Tiguan’s larger dimensions mean the PHEV powertrain shouldn’t have a huge impact on the SUV’s practicality. The outgoing Golf GTE sacrificed around 100 litres of storage space to make space for the battery pack, but the extra space around the Tiguan’s rear axle means its 615-litre boot should be largely unaffected.
Performance figures are yet to be confirmed, but such a system would put the Tiguan GTE on level-footing with the SUV’s current range-topper, the 227bhp 2.0 TSI. That car has a 0–62mph time of 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 143mph – both of which should be achievable with Volkswagen’s PHEV powertrain.
Volkswagen plans to further extend its range of plug-in hybrid offerings once the Tiguan GTE has reached the market. In the same announcement, the German brand confirmed the Arteon saloon would receive the same 242bhp hybrid powertrain before the end of the year.
What does the plug-in hybrid Tiguan have to beat? Read our run-down of the best hybrid SUVs on sale in the UK now…
