Volkswagen has revised the Tiguan SUV with sharp new looks, the latest technology and a new plug-in “eHybrid” model.

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As Europe’s current best-selling SUV, and the most successful Volkswagen model in the world according to the German firm, the new Tiguan has to deliver. Now revised, it introduces a new plug-in hybrid – eHybrid; using the same branding as the new Arteon – while the latest technology also features.

The plug-in hybrid Tiguan eHybrid, likely to appeal to fleets for its expected low CO2 output, can be driven in electric mode at speeds of up to 130km/h and for 50 electrically-driven kilometres. It’s also a powerful model, featuring a GTE button (like the Arteon eHybrid) to access the full output of 245hp from its TSI petrol engine and electric motor combination.

The eHybrid model is joined by a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, which comes with SCR technology and AdBlue to “significantly” reduce NOx output.

The performance orientated Tiguan R has also been refreshed, and now offers up 315hp from its petrol TSI unit. Again, like the new Arteon, it too is available with a new selective torque control with all-wheel drive, said to offer superior handling dynamics despite the car’s SUV stature.

The refreshed Tiguan comes as Tiguan (the basic model has no trim name attached), Life, Elegance and R Line. The performance R model then sits above these. All come with LED headlamps, AEB, We Connect and We Connect Plus as standard.

Design wise, the Tiguan has an all-new front-end, which includes new bumpers and (optionally) Volkswagen’s latest “IQ.LIGHT” Matrix beam headlamps.

Despite the design and engine changes, the Tiguan still keeps to its more useful SUV-styled roots and is capable of towing up to 2.5 tonnes, which Volkswagen suggests is suitable for such paraphernalia as boats or horse trailers.

A Volkswagen updates list wouldn’t be complete without mention of the firm’s driver assist technologies, which for the new Tiguan include the IQ.DRIVE system Travel Assist. This provides semi-autonomous driving with assisted steering, braking and acceleration at speeds of up to 210km/h. Similarly, the Tiguan gets the newest version of ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) which now incorporates local traffic sign information, for example slowing down automatically for a temporary speed limit, when engaged.

The Tiguan also receives the new Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB3 – no, not Men in Black) system to keep the car connected to the world using an in-built eSIM and internet connection. For the first time, this adds wireless-connected Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.