Volkswagen is wasting no time in enhancing its SUV lineup! Just months after launching the 2026 Tiguan and Tayron in Australia, the German automaker has unveiled a series of impressive upgrades for the model year 2026 (MY26).
The Turning Assistant 2.0 is the star of the show, now standard across the Tiguan mid-size SUV and its larger sibling, the Tayron. This advanced system takes collision avoidance to the next level, detecting and reacting to oncoming traffic during turns, in addition to its existing capabilities. But here's where it gets even more impressive: it can also detect and brake when the driver turns across oncoming vehicles driving straight ahead, providing an extra layer of safety.
In terms of aesthetics, the Tiguan 195TSI R-Line now sports new aero covers for its 20-inch 'Leeds' alloy wheels, matching the style of the Golf R-Line and Touareg R-Line. However, Volkswagen has also made a surprising move with the MY26 Tiguan 110TSI Life and 110TSI Elegance, downsizing their wheels from 19 inches to 17-inch 'Venezia' and 18-inch 'Napoli' alloys, respectively. The brand claims this is to enhance ride comfort, but will it impact the overall driving experience? That's a question for the test drive.
And this is the part most enthusiasts will love: all Tiguan Elegance and R-Line models will now feature illuminated VW emblems at the front and rear, adding a touch of premium flair.
Looking ahead, Volkswagen's SUV range is set to expand further in 2026 with the introduction of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the Tiguan eHybrid and Tayron eHybrid. These models will offer over 100km of all-electric driving range, providing efficient and eco-friendly options for consumers. Volkswagen is committed to offering a diverse powertrain selection, including turbocharged petrol engines, PHEVs, and fully electric SUVs like the ID.4 and ID.5, all within the popular $45-75,000 price range.
So, what do you think of Volkswagen's rapid updates? Are these upgrades enough to keep the Tiguan and Tayron competitive in the SUV market, or do you think they need even more innovation? Share your thoughts below!
