- Volkswagen has announced a handful of model year updates for their American lineup.
- A number of models get extra equipment, while the Tiguan gains a new SEL R-Line Turbo.
- The ID.4 will receive a “mid-model-year change” that promises a handful of improvements.
In one fell swoop, Volkswagen has revealed model year updates for nearly its entire U.S. lineup. However, not much has changed as most vehicles were recently redesigned or refreshed.
Starting with the 2026 Atlas and Atlas Sport Coupe, the only notable update is the addition of a mirror with HomeLink on SE Technology and above trims.
More: 2026 VW Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo Feels One Plaid Seat Away From Being A GTI
The 2026 Taos gets more notable upgrades including newly standard rear-seat pretensioners and an upgraded 15w wireless smartphone charger. Furthermore, the range-topping SEL trim now comes equipped with an eight-speaker premium audio system.
The Tiguan was redesigned for 2025, so changes are limited. However, there’s a revised Travel Assist system with Assisted Lane Change.
The lineup has also been expanded to include a new Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo, which debuted at the New York Auto Show in April. Set to be launched this fall, the model features 20-inch wheels and a classy cabin with Varenna leather seats as well as American walnut wood trim.
They’re joined by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15-inch infotainment system, and a tri-zone climate control system. Other highlights include a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a heated steering wheel, heated/ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats.
Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 258 lb-ft (349 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system.
Moving onto EVs, the 2026 ID.4 gets a HomeLink mirror on S Plus trims. While that’s not much to get excited about, Volkswagen confirmed a “mid-model-year change” is coming and it will see the vehicle “receive additional features.”
The ID.Buzz was new for 2025, so changes will presumably be minor for 2026. However, Volkswagen will reveal details at a later date.
On the car side of the equation, the Golf R is no longer available as a Black Edition. However, buyers will find a Graphite Gray Metallic paint job.
The 2026 Jetta and Jetta GLI now come equipped with standard rear-seat pretensioners. SE trims now sport a sunroof, while the SEL and Autobahn add an eight-speaker premium audio system. The Autobahn is also notable for having new push buttons on the steering wheel.
Volkswagen didn’t mention pricing, but said some 2026 models will begin arriving at dealerships in August. However, others won’t come until early next year.
