Volkswagen Tiguan Old Vs New: Yesterday, Volkswagen launched the all-new, or we can say the first, R-Line SUV in our market. The brand has many performance-oriented products in its pipeline for this year, like the Gold GTI, which has been spotted multiple times. The Tiguan R-Line is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine that makes it fun to drive (the thing that VW buyers seek).
As VW's flagship product for the Indian market, the new Tiguan doesn't just bring aesthetic upgrades or a performance bump; its a complete transformation from its predecessor. Let's explore the major differences between the outgoing Tiguan and the all-new Tiguan R-Line - from pricing to power, design to features. Check out more details below, and join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest auto news.
Read more: Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Vs BMW X1: When German Giants Go Head-to-Head
Pricing: From Premium to Luxury Territory
The new Tiguan R-Line arrives with a significant leap in pricing. The previous-gen Tiguan was priced at around Rs. 38.17 lakh (ex-showroom), whereas the new-gen R-Line demands Rs. 49 lakh. That's a hike of almost Rs. 11 lakh - nearly 30 per cent more expensive.
Why the hike?
Unlike the outgoing model, which was assembled locally using CKD kits, the 2025 Tiguan is a full CBU (Completely Built Unit). This shift to full import not only enhances quality but also impacts the price tag significantly.
With this move, the Tiguan now competes directly with luxury SUVS like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and even the Nissan X-Trail.
Performance: More Power, More Zing
Under the hood, the new Tiguan retains its 2.0-litre TSI engine but ups the ante in performance.
| Specification | Old Tiguan | New Tiguan R-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 1,984 cc | 1,984 cc |
| Power Output | 190 PS | 204 PS |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed DSG | 7-speed DSG |
| 0-100 km/h | ~8.5 sec | 7.1 sec |
The new Tiguan isn't just quicker; it feels significantly more athletic, thanks to the updated drivetrain and standard AWD system (4motion). VW also adds Dynamic Chassis Control Pro, allowing the suspension to adapt to varying conditions and driving modes.
Design and Dimensions: A More Muscular Stance
Visually, the Tiguan R-Line is a complete makeover. While the previous model followed a more conservative, clean-cut aesthetic, the new one oozes boldness and sportiness.
| Dimension | Old Tiguan | New Tiguan R-Line |
|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 4,509 | 4,539 |
| Width (mm) | 1,839 | 1,859 |
| Height (mm) | 1,665 | 1,660 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,679 | 2,680 |
The redesigned front grille, sleeker Matrix LED headlamps, gloss black wheel arch cladding, and 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels push the Tiguan's design into a new league. It now carries a more premium SUV silhouette with an improved drag coefficient of 0.28, making it more aerodynamic than before.
Interior and Tech: A Digital Revolution
Step inside, and the difference is night and day. The old Tiguan was plush and practical, but the new R-Line elevates the luxury experience.
What's new inside?
- 15-inch infotainment screen with touch-based AC controls
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Front seats with massage and lumbar support
- Three-zone climate control
- Head-up display
- Park Assist Plus (auto-parking)
- Drive mode selector with a mini-display
Whats retained? The familiar three-spoke VW steering wheel, also seen in the Virtus and Taigun.
The dashboard now features a unique pixelated illuminated panel, customizable with 30 ambient lighting colours - an interior flourish that sets a dramatic tone, especially at night.
Tiguan R-Line Old Vs New: Safety
Volkswagen has gone all-in on safety with the new Tiguan. The earlier version offered six airbags, while the new R-Line packs in nine airbags.
Volkswagen Tiguan Old Vs New: New safety features
- Level 2 ADAS suite (with 21 safety functionalities)
- 5-star Euro NCAP rating
- All-wheel disc brakes
- Electronic parking brake
- Adaptive cruise control, lane assist & emergency braking
The focus is no longer just on passive safety but on proactive driver assistance as well.
Six Colour Options with the R-Line
The older Tiguan came in a limited number of shades. The new R-Line, however, gives you six striking colours to choose from:
- Persimmon Red Metallic
- Oryx White Pearl
- Oyster Silver Metallic
- Cipressino Green Metallic
- Nightshade Blue Metallic
- Grenadilla Black Metallic
Each colour brings out the SUV's muscular design and makes the R-Line pop on the road.
Read more: VinFast VF 7 Spotted in Pune; India Launch Later this Year!
Verdict
The new Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line is not a mere facelift - it's a complete generational leap. From performance and design to technology and safety, every area has seen significant upgrades. However, this evolution comes at a hefty cost. The Tiguan R-Line is no longer a semi-luxury SUV that flirts with premium buyers; it's now a full-fledged competitor to German luxury brands.
If you are someone who values driving dynamics, build quality, and European styling over sheer gadgetry and space, the new Tiguan R-Line offers a compelling, driver-focused experience - albeit at a premium.
