Volkswagen has finally given the Tiguan an engine worth caring about. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo stuffs a stronger version of the brand’s 2.0L turbo-four under the hood, giving the compact crossover an extra 67 horsepower and 51 pound-feet of torque.
New Volkswagen Tiguan Already Getting Changes
It’s only been a few months since VW revealed the all-new for 2025 version of the Tiguan. The model hasn’t yet hit dealerships, and Volkswagen is already thinking about (and making improvements for) 2026.
The new Tiguan has much-improved styling, it weighs less, and even in base form it has more power than it did in 2024. But, since the 17 horsepower increase over 2024’s piddling 184 ponies wasn’t enough, VW is adding more.
This 2.0L engine has been used in just about everything Volkswagen makes. Called the EA888, it’s available in different markets and cars, with an output ranging from 168 horsepower in foreign-market Tiguans to 316 horsepower in the Golf R.
Here it makes 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Yes, both the Tiguan Turbo and the base Tiguan have turbochargers, but this one has a larger turbo with more boost pressure.
It has higher fuel pressure, stronger engine internals, and some other changes, but it still runs on 87-octane fuel. As VW put it, this one is “more turbocharged.”
An eight-speed automatic transmission is the only one offered. All-wheel drive comes standard on the Tiguan Turbo models.
More Power, No Suspension Changes for Volkswagen Tiguan Turbo
If you’re hoping for some sort of XL Golf GTI, you might end up disappointed. The Tiguan Turbo makes more power than lesser trim grades, but the suspension tuning is the same.
We haven’t driven the new Tiguan yet to know how it handles on the road, but it’s unlikely that it’s going to satisfy a GTI or Golf R buyer who needs more space.
The Tiguan Turbo is based on the SEL-trim, the top grade of the Tiguan. That means it will come with upgraded materials, including real American walnut trim, a double-stitched center console, and upgraded leather seating. It will also have a 15-inch center screen and head-up display, along with Harman Kardon audio and massaging front seats.
Volkswagen plans to launch the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo this fall. Expect pricing and availability when it’s ready to start shipping to VW dealers.
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