Volkswagen Shows Off Hotter Tiguan R-Line Turbo In NYC
Volkswagen has revealed the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo at the New York Auto Show—the new Turbo Tiguan will crown the redesigned third-generation Tiguan lineup.
Key Points
- The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo debuts as the top trim with a 268-hp 2.0L turbocharged engine and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive.
- New performance-focused hardware includes a larger turbocharger, reinforced internals, and an 8-speed automatic transmission, alongside a 170-lb weight reduction from the previous generation.
- Interior upgrades include a 15-inch MIB4 infotainment screen, quilted leather seating with massage and ventilation, and a full suite of IQ.DRIVE safety and driver assistance features.
At the core of the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is a revised version of Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter EA888 turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The reworked engine now produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque—67 more horsepower and 51 lb-ft more torque than the base engine.
Volkswagen got there by giving the EA888 a larger turbocharger and a new rotating assembly with stronger internal components. VW juiced the cooling and lubrication systems to handle the extra spice. Despite the performance gains, the engine retains Miller-cycle operation and runs on regular unleaded.
Styling updates include a shorter rear overhang, LED light bars front and rear, illuminated VW logos, and a black roof standard on Turbo models. The SEL R-Line Turbo also gets 20-inch wheels and unique paint options such as Avocado Green Pearl and Monterey Blue Pearl. The more powerful engine remains paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive.
Refreshing your memory— the third-generation Tiguan rides on the MQB evo platform and weighs up to 170 pounds less than the old model, contributing to improved acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Inside, the Tiguan Turbo gets new high-end materials and features, including genuine walnut trim, quilted leather seating with massage and ventilation, and a new gear selector mounted on the steering column to free up console space.
A 15-inch touchscreen with MIB4 infotainment software and a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display are standard, along with a customizable ambient lighting system and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Like other Tiguans, safety and driver assistance are handled by ten airbags and a full suite of IQ.DRIVE features, including lane centering, adaptive cruise control, and semi-automated emergency response functions.
Volkswagen will announce pricing and availability for the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo closer to market launch this fall.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
More by Michael Accardi
Comments
Join the conversation
I know it's not really a class leader but the interior is WAY beyond anything else in the space.