Volkswagen has revised the Tiguan SUV with sharp new looks, the latest technology and a new plug-in “eHybrid” model.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

As Europe’s current best-selling SUV, and the most successful Volkswagen model in the world according to the German firm, the new Tiguan has to deliver. Now revised, it introduces a new plug-in hybrid – eHybrid; using the same branding as the new Arteon – while the latest technology also features.

The plug-in hybrid Tiguan eHybrid, likely to appeal to fleets for its expected low CO2 output, can be driven in electric mode at speeds of up to 80mph and for 31 electrically-driven miles. It’s also a powerful model, featuring a GTE button (like the Arteon eHybrid) to access the full output of 245hp from its TSI petrol engine and electric motor combination.

The eHybrid model is joined by a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, which comes with SCR technology and AdBlue to “significantly” reduce NOx output.

The performance orientated Tiguan R has also been refreshed, and now offers up 315hp from its petrol TSI unit. Again, like the new Arteon, it too is available with a new selective torque control with all-wheel drive, said to offer superior handling dynamics despite the car’s SUV stature.

As is fast becoming the norm at Volkswagen, the latest refreshed Tiguan comes with new Volkswagen nomenclature, replacing the old UK-identifying trim lines. This includes Tiguan (the basic model has no trim name attached), Life (SE in old money), Elegance and R Line. The performance R model then sits above these. All come with LED headlamps, AEB, We Connect and We Connect Plus as standard.

Design wise, the Tiguan has an all-new front-end, which includes new bumpers and (optionally) Volkswagen’s latest “IQ.LIGHT” Matrix beam headlamps.

Despite the design and engine changes, the Tiguan still keeps to its more useful SUV-styled roots and is capable of towing up to 2.5 tonnes, which Volkswagen suggests is suitable for such paraphernalia as boats or horse trailers.

A Volkswagen updates list wouldn’t be complete without mention of the firm’s driver assist technologies, which for the new Tiguan include the IQ.DRIVE system Travel Assist. This provides semi-autonomous driving with assisted steering, braking and acceleration at speeds of up to 130mph. Similarly, the Tiguan gets the newest version of ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) which now incorporates local traffic sign information, for example slowing down automatically for a temporary speed limit, when engaged.

The Tiguan also receives the new Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB3 – no, not Men in Black) system to keep the car connected to the world using an in-built eSIM and internet connection. For the first time, this adds wireless-connected Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.