Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line

Mon, 14 Jan 2013

Volkswagen's Detroit Auto Show presence is big on utility this year, with the CrossBlue three-row concept vehicle occupying the lion's share of the limelight, both literally and figuratively. But that isn't stopping Volkswagen from lavishing attention on its already established crossover and sport utility vehicles with new R-Line derivatives. The Tiguan and its big brother Touareg are getting a host of look-faster items to increase their sporting appeal.

On the outside, the Tiguan R-Line receives handsome 19-inch alloys peering out from beneath fender extensions, premium lighting (bi-Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps), along with matching side skirts and a liftgate spoiler. On the inside, sportier accommodations include aluminum trim and a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters. As with other R-Line models, there are no powertrain modifications to go with the more aggressive visuals (that being the province of R standalone performance models like the R32), though the suspension has been firmed up an unspecified amount. The Tiguan R-Line will be available in front- or all-wheel drive configuration.

The more upscale Touareg R-Line (not present at the show though revealed by Volkswagen earlier) receives a similar suite of upgrades, including a new body kit, 20-inch alloys, dual oval-shaped exhausts, LED taillamps and special badging. Like the standard model, the Touareg R-Line is available only with 4Motion all-wheel drive, but can be had with the buyer's choice of either gasoline or diesel power.

Pricing has yet to be revealed for either model, but VW promises both will debut in the third quarter of this year.

VOLKSWAGEN INTRODUCES PERFORMANCE INSPIRED R-LINE® TRIM ON TOUAREG AND TIGUAN SUVS

Touareg R-Line available in V6 TDI® Clean Diesel or VR6® gasoline
Tiguan adds more sporty flair with R-Line spec
Fender® Premium Audio System now available in Tiguan R-Line

Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today it will offer the R-Line derivative on two additional models for the U.S. market. Joining the CC R-Line and recently introduced Beetle R-Line coupe, the Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line will be added to the Volkswagen line-up for model year 2014. Both models will be introduced at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

The Touareg R-Line and Tiguan R-Line models feature an aggressive appearance package and interior enhancements that provide an all-around dynamic and sporting appearance. Volkswagen R GmbH has developed the R-Line for drivers who want the sporty and aggressive styling of the Volkswagen R models, but without the additional engine performance.

Tiguan R-Line
Enhancing the Tiguan SEL's impressive list of standard equipment, the Tiguan R-Line adds performance-inspired exterior and interior treatments. The R-Line is available in front-wheel-drive or 4Motion® all-wheel-drive configuration and features the award-winning 2.0-liter TSI® turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the iconic Volkswagen GTI.

On the outside, the R-Line features unique "Mallory" 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on lower-profile all-season tires. Paired with a sport-tuned suspension, the combination allows for more dynamic driving characteristics. Additional enhancements include body-colored side-skirts featuring chrome trim; wheelarch extensions; R-Line rear spoiler; LED license plate illumination; and a front grille mounted R-Line badge. Bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are also standard.

Inside, the Tiguan R-Line features "metallic-finish" dash and door trim; a sporty flat-bottom R-Line multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters; stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates; aluminum sport pedals; and a black headliner.

Along with the interior treatments, the Tiguan R-Line becomes the fourth Volkswagen model to offer the award-winning Fender Premium Audio System. The system features a 10-channel, 400 watt amplifier with eight speakers and a rear subwoofer.

Touareg R-Line
The Touareg R-Line adds a host of dynamic and sporty elements to the long list of standard equipment on the Touareg Lux trim. Naturally, all Touareg models come standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and the R-Line adds a sport-tuned suspension to either the 3.0-liter VR6 gasoline or 3.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engine.

The Touareg R-Line also adds an aggressive exterior appearance distinguished by 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; a unique front bumper fascia; side skirts; R-Line badges; LED taillights; and oval-shaped dual exhaust tips at the rear.

Inside, the R-Line theme continues with unique high-gloss black and brushed aluminum trim on the dashboard, center console and doors. Stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates, aluminum sport pedals, and an R-Line steering wheel round out the model's interior enhancements.

Both models are slated to go on sale in the third quarter of 2013. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen's operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Eos, Golf, GTI, Golf R, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan vehicles through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.

By Chris Paukert