Volkswagen (VW) is gearing up to introduce hybrids to its SUV lineup in North America, starting with the compact Tiguan and midsize Atlas. But here's the catch—you'll need to wait a bit. VW's Martin Sanders mentions that dealers are eager for hybrids, and they are definitely coming, just not immediately. While the Tiguan already has hybrid versions in Europe, it's still undecided if North America will get a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). VW promises that both options are being considered.
Unfortunately, hybrid models won't be available for the 2025 Tiguan's launch next summer. It even seems ambitious to expect them in the 2026 model year. The third-generation Tiguan, VW's top seller in the U.S., may introduce hybrid versions by 2027. This is significant since compact SUVs cover 25% of the market, and competitors already offer hybrid options.
The VW Atlas is also preparing for hybridization in 2026. The redesign of this larger SUV may include a hybrid, PHEV, or even an extended-range hybrid (E-REV), where the gas engine acts as a generator. These innovations are promising for large vehicles, serving as a bridge to EVs while meeting emissions standards. VW plans to select a single hybrid type for the Atlas, and it's yet to be decided if there will also be a traditional engine version.
The future of a hybrid VW Taos is uncertain, depending on upcoming regulations, technology advancements, and consumer interest. Interestingly, the Tiguan isn't VW's farewell to internal combustion engines (ICE). Despite a strong push towards EVs, nearly half the product development budget still supports ICEs, as VW navigates market demands and legislative landscapes.
Volkswagen is planning to electrify its lineup with hybrid models for the Tiguan and Atlas SUVs. However, patience is crucial as market and regulatory conditions evolve. With both hybrids and ICE vehicles in play, VW is balancing innovation with practicality to meet diverse customer needs.
