Volkswagen claims that the Tiguan is not only the most successful SUV in Europe but also one of the bestsellers in the world. Till date, over six million units have found takers. Last year, Volkswagen produced nearly 911,000 units of the Tiguan, which made it the most popular model in the entire group. The second-gen Tiguan, which saw the market launch back in 2016, has now received a mid-life makeover. On the whole, the SUV gets subtle design tweaks, technology upgrades, an ‘R’ variant and the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

In terms of design, the Tiguan facelift features a revised, broader grille, new headlamps, restyled bumpers and new wheels. The Tiguan lettering at the rear has now moved right below the VW logo on the tailgate. Even the taillamps have paid a visit to the drawing board, while the exhaust outlets have grown in size.

Indoors, the refreshed Tiguan boasts a new steering wheel, redesigned centre console and digitalised climate control functions. That last one gets the definition from touch sliders and touch buttons. Other features include a 10.25-inch display (an 8.0-inch unit comes as standard) boosted by the third-gen modular infotainment matrix (MIB3), digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting, a massive panoramic sunroof, Travel Assist and adaptive cruise control. The option of a 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system will also be on offer.

For the first time, Volkswagen will offer an ‘R’ variant of the Tiguan with 315bhp. The go-fast, top-of-the-line derivative will have a new 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with selective wheel torque control. If that’s not for you, how about a plug-in hybrid powertrain? Yes, depending on the market, Volkswagen will offer the refreshed Tiguan with a dual-motor setup as well. Dubbed as the eHybrid, it will have 242bhp on tap. Another kicker with it will be the ability to reach speeds of up to 130kmph on electric power alone.

Some markets will also get the option of a TDI motor. Volkswagen claims that thanks to the twin dosing technique, the diesel motors are now amongst the cleanest internal combustion engines in the world. India received the Tiguan Allspace earlier this year. Hence, the refreshed version won’t be coming anytime soon. And when it does, don’t expect a diesel or a plug-in hybrid powertrain.