Volkswagen Tayron: A Preview of the Next-Generation Tiguan

• Volkswagen revealed the Tayron for the European market today, which replaces the Tiguan Allspace in that market.
• We think the Tayron gives a solid outline of what to expect from the next-generation Tiguan for the U.S.
• The Tayron sports handsome, rectangular styling and a luxurious-looking cabin.

Although Europe got a new Volkswagen Tiguan compact SUV last year, the U.S. is still waiting for its own next-generation Tiguan. Now, Volkswagen is launching another new crossover for Europe called the Tayron, which provides an insightful preview of the 2025 Tiguan coming to the U.S. market.

Notably, the Tayron replaces the Tiguan Allspace, the extended version of VW’s compact SUV sold in the U.S. since 2018. Volkswagen has announced that a new version of the Tiguan for the U.S. will debut later this year, built on a long-wheelbase platform similar to the Tayron. However, the company emphasizes that “the sheetmetal, powertrain options, and equipment set will differ markedly.” Consequently, the U.S.-spec Tiguan will likely share many characteristics with the Tayron, with more details revealed at the L.A. auto show this November.

A Handsome, Well-Equipped Crossover

Now, let’s approach the Tayron’s features. This crossover measures approximately 189.0 inches long, making it three inches longer than the current U.S.-market Tiguan and about 11 inches shorter than the Atlas. It provides standard seating for five, with an option for a third row to accommodate seven passengers.

The styling is consistent with Volkswagen’s design language, showcasing straight lines and rectangular forms. The headlights feature a sleek LED light bar, which is joined by a striking illuminated logo and complemented by a broad grille. Additionally, a prominent character line runs from the front wheel arch to the rear door handle, concluding at the taillights, while chrome trim accents the windows and D-pillar. The trendy full-width taillights enhance the vehicle’s modern appearance.

Inside, the Tayron adopts Volkswagen’s latest design elements found in the ID.Buzz, highlighted by a sizable 12.6-inch touchscreen positioned on the dashboard. Open-pore wood trim stretches across the dashboard, while illuminated accents create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the cabin.

Powertrains Galore

A diverse array of four-cylinder powertrains will be available in Europe, starting with a 148-hp mild-hybrid configuration. Following this, two plug-in hybrid variants will emerge, offering either 201 or 268 hp, paired with a 19.7-kWh battery boasting an electric range of over 62 miles. This battery supports both 11 kW charging via AC chargers and 50 kW charging through DC fast chargers. Nonetheless, it is unlikely these hybrids will be introduced in the U.S. market.

This new vehicle will also feature two turbocharged gasoline engines alongside two TDI turbo-diesel options, with the most powerful TDI delivering 190 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. Each powertrain is paired with an efficient automatic dual-clutch transmission.

In terms of safety and comfort, the Tayron comes equipped with standard adaptive cruise control, lane-change and lane-keep assist, along with automatic emergency braking featuring pedestrian and cyclist detection. Moreover, it has a digital rearview mirror, displays road signage within the digital gauge cluster, and can lock the doors automatically if an object approaches the vehicle’s side.

Optional features include a voice assistant with advanced integration, a panoramic sunroof, and a state-of-the-art 700-watt Harman Kardon sound system. Additionally, buyers can opt for power-adjustable leather seats that offer massage and ventilation capabilities.

In conclusion, while Volkswagen emphasizes that the Tayron does not directly foreshadow the next-generation U.S. Tiguan, it indeed paints a vivid picture of what can be expected from the upcoming compact crossover.

Caleb Miller
Associate News Editor
Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old and realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to someday own something unique like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan.