Strategic rebranding, from numbers to a name sold in millions of copies
The German automaker from Wolfsburg is preparing a major change to its electric vehicle lineup. The upcoming updated version of the ID.4 electric crossover is ditching its numerical designation and officially adopting the ID. Tiguan name. The decision is part of the brand’s new model naming strategy, capitalizing on the immense name recognition of the Tiguan — the group’s best-selling model worldwide, with over 9 million units delivered since its initial launch.
The new ID. Tiguan will take over the role of both previous compact electric SUVs, replacing both the ID.4 and the ID.5 coupé (for which no direct successor is planned). The world premiere of the new model is scheduled for October.
Visual changes: Refreshed exterior design under official camouflage
Before the full presentation, the first official images of the new ID. Tiguan covered in a layer of dynamic camouflage during final testing have been published. Despite the protective bodywork, the aesthetic changes compared to the old ID.4 are visible.
The front end benefits from a completely restyled look, with new LED headlights with a redefined light signature, and a redesigned bumper. At the rear, the new electric SUV brings LED taillights with changed inner graphics and a revised rear bumper, designed to provide a more modern profile.
Revised interior: Improved ergonomics and reintroduction of physical controls
The most important evolution is found in the interior, where corrections requested by customers regarding ergonomics were made:
- Dedicated physical controls: A row of physical buttons has been integrated under the central touchscreen, replacing the old touch sliders, offering much more precise use while driving.
- Redesigned steering wheel: The new steering wheel adopts a design identical to that introduced on the latest electric models in the range, such as the ID. Polo and ID.3 Neo.
- Expanded digital dashboard: The digital instrumentation behind the steering wheel is slightly larger compared to the previous generation.
- New window controls: The control panel for the power windows on the driver's door has also been changed.
Technical platform and MEB architecture
From a technical point of view, the new Volkswagen ID. Tiguan continues to use the MEB electric vehicle architecture (with developments to the platform). Although detailed specifications regarding battery capacity or electric motor power remain confidential until the October debut, optimizations are expected in terms of energy efficiency, maximum autonomy and charging speed at DC fast stations.
Availability and price estimates for the Romanian market
The official commercial launch and first deliveries of the new Volkswagen ID. Tiguan are scheduled for the first months of 2027.
On the Romanian market, the new model will be available for order towards the end of this year or early next year. Regarding the price range:
- Estimated starting price: The entry-level version is expected to have a starting price of between 38,000 and 42,000 euros (VAT included), maintaining a similar positioning to that of the current model.
- Top versions: Variants equipped with a large capacity battery and all-wheel drive system are estimated at a price between 48,000 and 55,000 euros.
- Local subsidies: Through the Rabla Plus program, buyers in Romania will be able to access government eco-bonuses that will reduce the final purchase price of the car.