Volkswagen Expands R-Line Packages to Touareg and Tiguan at Detroit Show
Volkswagen has unveiled R-Line styling and equipment packages for the Touareg and Tiguan SUVs at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, targeting the US market for the 2014 model year.
Volkswagen has introduced R-Line packages for its Touareg and Tiguan SUVs at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, extending the sporty trim line to its larger US-market crossovers for the 2014 model year. The move follows the earlier R-Line versions of the CC and Beetle coupe, and brings performance-inspired styling and interior upgrades to both models.
Tiguan R-Line: Sportier Looks and Features
The Tiguan R-Line receives a set of exterior changes aimed at giving the compact SUV a more dynamic appearance. These include 19-inch “Mallory” alloy wheels fitted with lower-profile all-season tyres, body-coloured side skirts with chrome trim, wheelarch extensions, an R-Line rear spoiler, and LED licence plate lighting. The front grille carries a distinctive R-Line badge, while bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are standard.
Inside, the Tiguan R-Line adds metallic-finish trim on the dash and doors, a flat-bottom R-Line steering wheel with paddle shifters, stainless-steel scuff plates, aluminium sport pedals, and a black headliner. The Fender Premium Audio System is also included.
Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive or Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Power comes from the familiar 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine, shared with the GTI. The R-Line package focuses on appearance and handling, with a sport-tuned suspension, but does not add extra power over the standard Tiguan.
Touareg R-Line: Larger SUV, Stronger Statement
The Touareg R-Line sits above the regular Touareg with a more aggressive exterior treatment. The package brings 20-inch alloy wheels, a unique front bumper fascia, side skirts, R-Line badging, LED tail lights, and oval dual exhaust tips. As with the Tiguan, the R-Line package is focused on visual and handling upgrades rather than engine performance.
Inside, the Touareg R-Line features high-gloss black and brushed aluminium trim across the dashboard, centre console and doors. Stainless-steel scuff plates, aluminium pedals, and an R-Line steering wheel are also fitted. The model comes standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Buyers can select either the 3.6-litre VR6 petrol engine or the 3.0-litre TDI diesel, with both versions gaining a sport-tuned suspension as part of the R-Line package.
Positioning in Volkswagen’s SUV Range
The R-Line packages expand Volkswagen’s performance-inspired trim across more of its US line-up, joining earlier R-Line versions of the CC and Beetle. The focus is on enhancing the style and perceived sportiness of the brand’s existing SUVs rather than delivering outright performance upgrades. For buyers, the R-Line offers a way to differentiate their Touareg or Tiguan with factory-backed styling and interior features, competing with similar appearance-focused packages from rival brands. For more on Volkswagen’s SUV strategy, see Volkswagen plots new crossovers to expand SUV range
- Tiguan R-Line: 19-inch alloys, sport suspension, unique interior trim, 2.0-litre TSI engine, FWD or AWD
- Touareg R-Line: 20-inch alloys, sport suspension, high-gloss and aluminium interior, 3.6-litre VR6 or 3.0-litre TDI, AWD
