2021 Volkswagen Tiguan R

As one of Volkswagen’s best selling cars the Tiguan has been a huge success for the German brand, which is now extending it’s range with the new Tiguan R. With the release of the Arteon R and now Tiguan R, Volkswagen seem to be happy pumping out R versions across their line-up. No complaints here.

Powering the show is the same powertrain and drivetrain used in the Arteon R and upcoming Mk8 Golf R. That means a EA888 2.0L turbocharged inline 4 engine in the updated evo4 spec, producing peak power of 320 PS (235 kW) and peak torque of 320 lb-ft (434 Nm). A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission will send power to all four wheels with a ‘torque splitter’ torque vectoring clutch pack on the rear axle.

To make the Tiguan R a bit more sporty, Volkswagen have lowered the suspension by 10mm, enlarged the brakes, fitted larger 21-inch wheels, included changeable driver modes and optional Akrapovic titanium exhaust. The exterior styling deletes some chrome highlighting in favour of gloss black, and front and rear facias look slightly more aggressive with a few more strakes and larger openings.