- Volkswagen appears to be working on a new Tiguan R.
- Prototype shows quad exhaust tips and larger brakes.
- Could feature the same powertain as the latest Golf R.
Spy photographers have been busy stalking Volkswagen prototypes lately, but this might be the pick of the bunch. They’ve caught what appears to be a Tiguan R out testing.
At first glance, the crossover doesn’t look terribly exciting as it simply appears to be a Tiguan R-Line. However, a closer inspection reveals a handful of subtle changes that hint at a high-performance variant.
More: VW T-Roc R Strips Down And Shows Nearly Everything In Latest Spy Photos
The most noticeable clue resides out back as the crossover has been equipped with a four-tailpipe exhaust system. Furthermore, the tips are clearly on display rather than being tucked away behind the bumper.
SHProshots
That isn’t the only change as we can see lightly revised outer intakes with a single horizontal bar. This compares to three on the R-Line and the space below has a large opening, which provides a glimpse at a radiator or intercooler.
Review: Europe’s New VW Tiguan Thinks It’s Wolfsburg’s BMW X1
Last but not least, the crossover appears to be equipped with a high-performance braking system that has larger front calipers as well as ventilated discs. We also wouldn’t be surprised to find a sportier suspension and a few interior tweaks.
Could Have Around 330 HP
SHProshots
Little is known about the Tiguan R at this point, but the European R-Line 195 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine developing 262 hp (195 kW / 265 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h).
Customers can also get a more powerful R-Line eHybrid, which has a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a 1.5-liter engine, a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, a 19.7 kWh battery pack, and an electric motor. This delivers a combined output of 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS), although the extra weight lowers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 7.2 seconds while the top speed falls to 134 mph (215 km/h).
It remains unclear what the fully fledged Tiguan R will have, but it’s probably save to assume a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. If the Golf R is any indication, the crossover could have around 329 hp (245 kW / 333 PS). Of course, only time will tell.
Could It Come To America?
We wouldn’t bet on it, at least not in the form you see here. The European-market Tiguan is not the same as the US-spec version, despite sharing the badge. In fact, the larger Tiguan sold in America is marketed as the Tayron in Europe. Its 316 hp (235 kW / 320 PS) predecessor was also limited to select markets, which does not strengthen the case.
Volkswagen could, of course, apply similar treatment to the American model, but that is another conversation entirely.
It’s also unclear whether Americans would be willing to spend $50,000 or more on a performance crossover from Volkswagen. Then again, the company already asks $49,455 for the Golf R, so it’s hardly uncharted territory, especially with the RAV4 GR Sport entering the scene.
