German automaker Volkswagen has officially taken the wrapping off its latest electric vehicle (EV), the ID. Tiguan, an electric version of the carmaker’s best-selling car that it boasts is one of its most important electric models.

The electric Tiguan, which will replace the ID.4 and ID.5 models in its electric lineup, boasts a completely redesigned exterior and a high-quality interior, and will also feature for the first time a 12-inch co-driver display, to complement the 10-inch driver display and central 15-inch infotainment display.

The ID. Tiguan will offer a range of up to 600 kilometres (WLTP) as well as a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 kilograms, and will be available in three separate variants, including two rear-wheel drive versions and an all-wheel drive variant.

The entry-level version boasts rear-wheel drive and maximum power of 140 kilowatts (kW) from a 58 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery – though its towing capacity is limited to 1,800 kg. A 77 kWh battery will power both a second rear-wheel drive version with up to 210 kW of power, and a 220 kW 4Motion all-wheel drive variant.

Rear compartment storage measures up to 543 litres in addition to a 32-litre “frunk”

Volkswagen has also tried to incorporate some “fun” in the new ID. Tiguan, such as the optional “Retro” driver display which mimics the red-blue instrument panels from a Golf IV, including classic speedometer and a stylised rev counter that displays energy flow (rather than engine speeds).

Retro options are also available on the infotainment screen which pull from six different Volkswagen models – the Golf I, Golf II Country, Golf IV, Tiguan I, Race Touareg, and Beetle.

The ID. Tiguan also incorporates a number of driver assistance and driving options including one-pedal driving as standard, and optional comfort features such as electrically adjustable front seats with massage, memory, and ventilation functions; a high-end sound system from Harman Kardon with an output of 480 watts; and a panoramic sunroof.

There does not appear to be any indication yet when the ID. Tiguan will make its way to Australia, but pre-sales for the ID. Tiguan in Germany and other European countries will start this week, with prices starting from €42,695, which currently converts to around $A68,500.

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Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.



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