Volkswagen is gearing up for the debut of the all-new third-generation Tiguan this September, but a couple of weeks before the official unveiling, photos of an undisguised example ended up on social media. The spy shots in question were uploaded on the Instagram accounts of avtomanija and cochespias1 showing the exterior SUV from different angles. The Tiguan was caught on the streets of Ljubljana which is the capital of Slovenia in Europe. The automaker chose this public location for the filming of press material, as hinted at by the black camera vehicle in the background. The roads were likely closed but bystanders received an early look at the SUV in its full glory.

The low-resolution images depict a red Tiguan, likely in the sporty R-Line trim. The SUV showcases sizeable bumper intakes accented by chrome elements, along with generously sized alloy wheels sporting a dual five-spoke pattern. Notably, the SUV boasts full-width LED lighting units on both its front and rear ends, complemented by finely sculpted lines above the front and rear fenders, in addition to a set of silver roof rails. The new Tiguan looks fairly large next to the specially-converted Mercedes-Benz GLE camera vehicle. Indeed, the SUV measures 4,551 mm in length, an increase of 32 mm compared to the previous generation, while still maintaining the identical width and wheelbase of 2,681 mm.


VW has given us a pretty detailed preview of the model in earlier official teasers. Those included a massive gallery of lightly camouflaged prototypes with uncovered interiors and specifications. The model is based on an improved version of its predecessor’s MQB architecture. Powertrain options will include the mild-hybrid 1.5 eTSI petrol, 2.0 TSI petrol, 2.0 TDI diesel, and two eHybrid PHEVs. The latter will produce 201 hp and 268 hp, with the significantly larger 18.5 kWh battery allowing an EV-only range close to 100 km.

VW has provided an extensive preview of the model through prior official teasers, offering a comprehensive look. These teasers featured a substantial collection of prototypes with minimal camouflage. The model is built on an upgraded iteration of its predecessor’s MQB architecture. In Europe, the range of powertrain choices encompasses the mild-hybrid 1.5 eTSI petrol, 2.0 TSI petrol, 2.0 TDI diesel, and two eHybrid PHEVs. Notably, the latter two will generate outputs of 201 hp nd 268 hp, with the notably larger 18.5 kWh battery permitting an electric-only range nearly reaching 100 km.

The VW Tiguan will roll out in Europe starting in the first quarter of 2024. As for North American buyers, it has been reported that a global-spec version of China’s VW Tayron might serve as the successor of the Tiguan Allspace, possibly receiving the Tiguan nameplate for the 2025 model year.