India-bound 2016 VW Tiguan inspired by Sport Coupe Concept GTE - Rendering

Will make its debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The second generation VW Tiguan is scheduled to make a global premiere at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, featuring a new design, lighter platform, and an all new lineup of engines.

French publication, L'Argus. has rendered the Tiguan based on the design of the VW Sport Coupe Concept GTE that was revealed at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. As the render depicts, the Tiguan gets a new pair of headlamps and LED DRLs that smoothly flow into the large grille, and a more rounded body that injects an all new look over the boxy, compact proportions of the outgoing model.

If VW were to follow such a design language, they could finally have a less-expensive rival to the popular Range Rover Evoque. Unlike the Evoque however, it will offer a new long wheelbase variant with an additional third row of seats, which primarily targets American, Chinese and the Indian markets.

It will be based on VAG's new MQB platform that underpins the new VW Passat, so expect some weight savings over the PQ35 platform sourced from the previous VW Golf, thus improving fuel efficiency and driving characteristics.

With the new platform, the Tiguan will get new four-cylinder petrol TSI and diesel TDI engines with a choice between manual and DSG transmissions. While entry-level variants will be front-wheel drive, VW’s 4MOTION electronic all-wheel drive system will be offered as standard for higher variants.

For the Indian market, VW India will likely bring the 7-seater variant of the new Tiguan within 23 months from now. To keep prices competitive, it is likely to be brought into the country via the CKD route, with assembly taking place at its Chakan plant in Pune.

Rivals: Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Hyundai Santa Fe
Launch date: Unveiling at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show (reported)
Expected price: INR 25 lakhs

Current VW Tiguan - Image Gallery

[Source: L'Argus]