VW’s electric Tiguan arrives with 600km of range and a sharper look
By khulekani / on October 13th, 2026 / in Car News, Electric
By Xolile Hopa
Volkswagen is retiring the ID.4 and ID.5 and replacing them with a single electric SUV carrying one of its most popular badges. The ID. Tiguan will reach European showrooms in early 2027, but the company has not said whether it is coming to South Africa.
Sharper design, fewer touch controls
The rounded crossover shape has gone. In its place is an upright SUV with tighter lines which Volkswagen says gives the car the look of a model from the class above. Pull-style door handles also return.
Inside, a 10-inch driver display and a 15-inch central screen are joined by a 12-inch screen for the front passenger, a first for a European Volkswagen. A privacy mode hides it from the driver.
Volkswagen has also moved some controls back to physical buttons, including air conditioning, audio volume and the steering wheel. There are two Qi2 wireless chargers in the front.
A “Retro” display mode adds some nostalgia showing the blue-and-red dials of the Golf IV. Drivers can also choose a virtual garage of six classic Volkswagens including the Golf I and the Beetle.
Three versions up to 600km
Volkswagen claims a WLTP range of up to 600km depending on the version:
- 140kW: rear-wheel drive with a 58kWh battery.
- 210kW: rear-wheel drive with a 77kWh battery.
- 220kW: 4MOTION all-wheel drive with a 77kWh battery.
WLTP figures come from standardised testing, so most drivers will see less in daily use particularly on the highway.
Towing is rated at up to 1,800kg with the smaller battery and 2,000kg with the larger one. The boot holds up to 534 litres, and a 32-litre front storage compartment sits under the bonnet. Trim levels are Trend, Life, Style and R-Line.
Pre-sales open on 13 October in Germany and many other European countries with prices from R787 293,67. The ID. Tiguan will be sold alongside the petrol, diesel and hybrid Tiguan which Volkswagen says is its best-seller worldwide.
Driver aids and extras
One-pedal driving is standard. Connected Travel Assist can change lanes on motorways and stop the car at red traffic lights. Options include massage and ventilated front seats, a 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system and a panoramic sunroof.
A Digital Key lets owners lock, unlock and start the car with a smartphone and share access with others. A PowerSocket adapter plugs into the charging port to run devices such as electric grills and e-bikes.