2026 Volkswagen SUVs: Tiguan Turbo Comin' in Hot
As it did last year, Volkswagen spreads the love across its SUV lineup for 2026, delivering updates for every one of its models. Leading the charge is the Tiguan compact crossover, which adds a new turbocharged variant that brings extra excitement to the range. Keep reading to find out what's new for 2026 Volkswagen SUVs.
Volkswagen's 2026 SUV lineup sees updates across all models. The Tiguan adds a powerful turbo variant, while the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, ID4, and Taos receive minor upgrades. Notable changes include tech enhancements and styling updates for a more modern appeal.
This summary was generated by AI using content from this MotorTrend article Read Next 2026 Volkswagen Atlas
For 2026, the Volkswagen Atlas three-row SUV carries over mostly unchanged. The only update is the addition of a factory-installed HomeLink rearview mirror on the SE with Technology trim, which integrates universal garage door remote buttons.
The Atlas underwent a midcycle refresh for the 2024 model year, gaining enhanced performance, updated styling, and new standard features such as large driver and infotainment displays and a heated steering wheel. That refresh also marked the discontinuation of the V-6 engine, which was replaced by a more powerful turbo-four.
MotorTrend Ranked: No. 13 in three-row SUVs (2025 model).
Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Atlas Review 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Like the standard Atlas, the only update to the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport midsize SUV is the addition of a HomeLink rearview mirror on the SE with Technology trim, allowing drivers to program garage door and gate openers directly into the mirror.
The Cross Sport received a significant refresh for the 2024 model year, including updated exterior styling and a more modern interior. The 2025 model brought enhanced technology features and improved overall refinement.
MotorTrend Ranked: No. 11 in midsize SUVs (2025 model).
Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Review
Every 2026 ID4 model scores a standard ZEV3 2-in-1 charging cable, enabling both Level 1 and Level 2 home charging from a single cord. The ID4 Pro S Plus AWD trim also gains a HomeLink rearview mirror.
Volkswagen has announced that a mid-model-year update is coming in early 2026, which will introduce more features for the ID4—including the addition of a built-in NACS (North American Charging System) port similar to Tesla's design.
MotorTrend Ranked: No. 5 in electric compact SUVs (2025 model).
Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen ID4 Review 2026 Volkswagen Taos
Changes to the 2026 Taos are minimal, highlighted by newly standard rear seatbelt pretensioners, an improved seatbelt reminder system, and updated black badging on the SE Black model. The Taos received a more substantial refresh for the 2025 model year, which brought increased horsepower, a new transmission, and notable upgrades to both technology and styling.
MotorTrend Ranked: No. 9 in subcompact SUVs (2025 model).
Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Taos Review 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
After a full redesign for 2025, the 2026 Tiguan sees a few key updates, including a revised hands-free driving system. This year also introduces a new, more powerful top-of-the-line trim: the SEL R-Line Turbo. It replaces the outgoing SEL R-Line in the Tiguan lineup.
The Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is powered by a turbocharged engine making 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, an improvement of 67 hp and 51 lb-ft over the standard Tiguan, and it remains compatible with regular gasoline, offering strong performance without the need for premium fuel. Standard 4Motion all-wheel drive and slightly larger brakes enhance the Turbo's handling and braking confidence.
Visually, the Tiguan Turbo stands out with 20-inch black wheels, black mirror caps, and a contrasting black roof, giving it a sportier, more aggressive look.
MotorTrend Ranked: No. 12 in compact SUVs (2024 model).
Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Tiguan Review 2026 Volkswagen SUVs: What's New 2026 Volkswagen Atlas: Minor update
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport: Minor update
2026 Volkswagen ID4: Minor update
2026 Volkswagen Taos: Minor update
2026 Volkswagen Tiguan: Significant update
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