(EDITOR’S NOTE: Since this column was published there have been reports of powertrain issues with the 2026 Volkswagen SEL R-Line Turbo. VW of America’s response to questions from the Detroit Free Press: “We’re aware of concerns that certain 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo owners have raised and pay close attention to feedback regarding product quality. Our teams are currently investigating these concerns and will provide updates to affected owners as resolutions arise. Customers experiencing issues should reach out to their dealer.” )
First impressions are great, but nothing beats getting to know a person, place or vehicle. That’s why I share my experience with vehicles after driving them for a week or so as a make or model evolves.
This week, I am looking again at the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan Turbo. The Tiguan Turbo is a compact SUV, which I first drove in October 2025.
Car of the week: 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo
What is it? Five-passenger compact front- or all-wheel drive SUV
How much? 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo prices start at $43,085. All prices exclude $1,475 destination charge.
Prices for the 2026 Tiguan (without the T) start at $30,805 for a front-wheel drive 201-horsepower base model. The sporty Tiguan Turbo has more power and features.
How’s it selling? The Tiguan is VW’s best-selling vehicle in the United States and globally. VW USA sold 78,621 Tiguans in 2025, down from 94,372 in 2024.
What does it compete with? Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, Honda CR-B, Hyundai Sportage, Kia Tucsn, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4
Why would I want a VW Tiguan Turbo?
The Tiguan Turbo has more power, better handling and looks better than the base model. It’s far more fun to drive than any other mass-market compact SUV.
What I thought the first time I drove one
After a day driving a Tiguan Turbo in the countryside near Ann Arbor, I wrote:
What I think now
What could be better?
VW relies very heavily on flat panel controls for climate and audio controls. More buttons, more switches and dials would be welcome
VW Tiguan Turbo key figures and features
Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 2026 VW Tiguan Turbo is sportiest SUV on the market
Reporting by Mark Phelan, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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