According to July 2024 data from Kelley Blue Book, one automobile segment has a strong presence in the top ten best-seller list.
Although four popular trucks, the Ford F series and the Ram line, have established themselves as best-sellers, crossover SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V have made their mark on the list. In total, the four best-selling crossovers, the RAV4, CR-V, Tesla Model Y and Nissan Rogue, accounted for more than 783,000 U.S. auto sales in July 2024.
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But while these manufacturers reap the benefits and rewards of this accolade, one legendary automaker is left out: Volkswagen.
Over the years, sales of the brand's Tiguan have paled in comparison to those of its competitors. However, a bold new redesign may be a sign from VW that there may be hope in sight.
Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line 2025 Ascot Gray volkswagen
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VW's Tiguan spaceship
Redesigned for 2025, Volkswagen's new Tiguan has been refreshed in a gift-wrapped package for the US market, offering new features in a stylish, technology-rich form exclusive to US drivers.
On the outside, the Tiguan's body is slightly larger than the previous model and features a new set of striking styling details. According to VW, the increase in size of the new car is due to its new platform, which allows more space between the front and rear wheels.
Under the hood, the new Tiguan is equipped with a single engine: a 2-liter turbocharged that has been boosted to 201 horsepower and mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. According to VW, this new combo allows for improved towing capacity of up to 1,800 pounds on 4Motion all-wheel drive models.
Volkswagen hasn't provided fuel economy figures yet, but is confident its EPA results will improve. In addition to the new engine, the 2025 Tiguan is also lighter than the previous one by about 170 pounds, which is said to be due to the use of aluminum in the suspension and body structure.
The interior of the Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line 2025 volkswagen
See the 9 images in this gallery about the original article.
Inside, the Tiguan's cabin is relatively modern, complete with screens, clean lines and carefully placed decorative lighting, giving it a more luxurious feel than ever.
Like most dashboards on the market, the Tiguan's entire dashboard is dominated by screens. In front and behind the steering wheel is a 10.25-inch display called the Digital Cockpit, a standard screen on all models that acts as the vehicle's gauge cluster.
However, alongside the digital cockpit is another standard 12.9-inch infotainment screen or an optional 15.0-inch unit that appears to be compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
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VW says interior options, in addition to the larger screen, include an available head-up display and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system.
In addition, VW is planning some optional extras that belong in the catalogs of its Audi cars, including an easy-open and close power tailgate, 12-way power front seats with quilted leather seating surfaces plus massage and 10-point ventilation in all backrest, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and a three-zone climate control system.
However, an interesting feature unique to the Tiguan is something VW calls 'Atmospheres', a feature that gives the Tiguan's interior certain “moods” while driving. According to VW, Atmospheres provides “synchronized audio and ambient lighting settings for a harmonious combination of sight and sound that allows you to adapt the vehicle's mood to your preferences.”
Volkswagen says pricing and availability information for the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan will be announced closer to launch.
Related: VW America CEO steps down amid turmoil and a window of opportunity
The new Tiguan could be the beginning of VW's golden opportunity
The introduction of the new Tiguan comes as VW is in the midst of a leadership transition period. VW of America has its CEO Pablo Di Si and Kjell Gruner enters, who will officially take over on December 12.
Meanwhile, VW human resources director Gerrit Spengler will take over, but Di Si's decision comes after reports suggested Di Si's commitment to electric vehicles and the pursuit of opportunities has left a taste bitter among the VW bigwigs in Germany.
However, VW's top brass is confident its new Americas CEO will help guide its journey toward brighter days in the region, as previous roles at Boston Consulting Group, Porsche, Daimler-Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz and Rivian. give you a unique perspective on the American market.
“Kjell Gruner is an absolute expert on the US market,” said Gunnar Kilian, Member of the Human Resources Board of the VW AG Group. “He has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry and extensive knowledge of exploiting and accelerating growth opportunities in North America.”
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