Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 31 August 2026
While Volkswagen is playing its cards close to its chest with the future of its electric ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs, things are becoming clearer.
Just recently, a German YouTube channel by the name of Autogefühl got their hands on a prototype electric SUV from VW, which is said to be the ID. Tiguan.
Volkswagen is expected to drop its numerical naming convention for this segment, returning to its more traditional monikers.
Unlike the ID.4 and ID.5, this electric SUV is a far more upright vehicle, with muscular styling.
It features an LED lightbar across the front, with integrated daytime running lights, and headlights below.
Given it’s an electric vehicle, the lack of front grille isn’t a surprise, but the lower part of the bumper features a pair of intakes.
At the rear, it wears a pair of squared off taillights, but it’s likely the camouflage is hiding a light bar spanning the width of the SUV.
While the exterior of this SUV comes as somewhat of a surprise, the underpinnings are far more familiar.
It sits on Volkswagen’s MEB+ platform, and should feature upgraded batteries compared to what we have seen previously. These batteries are also set to adopt LFP cell chemistry, which are more cost-effective.
Entry-level models are expected to use a single motor on the rear axle, while performance models are expected to use a new naming convention, instead of the current ‘GTX’ badging.
Changes such as recessed door handles and physically interior controls are tipped to return on this vehicle.
Volkswagen is expected to upgrade its charging capabilities to beyond 175kW in order to compete with new Chinese entrants.
Production of this SUV is expected to commence in Germany by the end of 2026, meaning the ID. Tiguan should be a 2027 model year vehicle.
