2022 Volkswagen Tiguan: First Look

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By Perry Stern, AutoNXT

Most Popular VW

© Volkswagen of America

Volkswagen introduced the Tiguan more than 10 ten years ago when it entered the smaller crossover market for the first time. When the second generation Tiguan arrived in 2016, the small VW grew in popularity to eventually become the best-selling model in Volkswagen’s U.S. lineup. Today the German company announces plans to introduce the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan with fresh styling, new technology and advanced driver-assistance features. Note that photos are of the Euro-spec short-wheelbase Tiguan; the version in America will be the long-wheelbase variant.

New Styling

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The most obvious update for the 2022 Tiguan is a new look to the small crossover’s front fascia. An all-new grille flows cleanly into updated LED headlights, creating a visage similar to Tiguan’s larger siblings in the VW lineup. Bumpers have also been updated, and at the center of the grille sits the new Volkswagen logo.

From the Rear

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Similar to the update recently introduced on Volkswagen’s Arteon flagship sedan, the TIGUAN nameplate lettering gets centrally located on the rear of the crossover below the large VW badge. Wheel designs have also been updated for the entire trim line.

High-Tech Interior

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Inside, the new Tiguan gets a more high-tech feel with the latest Volkswagen infotainment system that uses natural voice control and can be paired to multiple phones simultaneously. An 8-inch display is standard, while the upper trim levels are equipped with a new 10.25-inch touchscreen display. Adding to the ambiance is an available 15-color ambient lighting system as well as a 480-watt Fender premium audio system.

Digital Cockpit

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All 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan variants will be equipped with VW’s Digital Cockpit, which provides a configurable electronic display in full view of the driver. A new multifunction steering wheel features illuminated soft-touch buttons and sliders. The automatic climate control system also uses these new soft-touch controls for a more high-tech look. Two illuminated USB-C ports are easily accessible.

Turbocharged Powertrain

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The powertrain of the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan remains unchanged for the new model year — a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. All trim levels are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Travel Assist

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Volkswagen will offer the 2022 Tiguan with VW’s latest driver-assistance system called Travel Assist. This advanced feature employs the adaptive cruise control and lane-change assist to enable a partially automated driving system that works at speeds up to 130 mph. When activated, the system uses the front camera and GPS data to adjust automatically to speed limits, towns and turns in the road — all while keeping in the center of the lane and pacing with the car in front.

Coming Next Year

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It may seem a bit early to be talking about a new model that doesn’t arrive in showrooms until fall of 2021 as a 2022 model, although a version of Tiguan with these same updates goes on sale in Europe soon. Consider this a sneak peek at what will be coming to America next year.

See more at: AutoNXT