Volkswagen has begun releasing the first visual details of its next large sports utility vehicle, scheduled to officially debut during Salão of Automóvel of Nova York. The images revealed confirm a profound restyling of the body, which now adopts more rectilinear and imposing lines, aligning the North American product with the design of the Teramont Pro, recently introduced on the Chinese market. The model maintains a wheelbase of 2,980 mm, ensuring the preservation of the internal space that established the current generation.
The project marks a significant evolution in the German automaker’s strategy for the family SUV segment, replacing almost all of the metal on the exterior, with the exception of the roof. The presentation to the global public will take place in April this year, consolidating the brand’s commitment to highly efficient combustion vehicles before the total transition to electrification. The North American market continues to be the main focus, where the vehicle occupies the position of second sales leader within the manufacturer’s portfolio.
Renewed visual identity and global inspiration
The front of the new utility vehicle displays a generously proportioned front grille, now divided and integrated with an LED optical assembly with a “C”-shaped light signature. The vertical air intakes at the ends of the bumper and the lower air intake with a diamond-style weave give the vehicle a more aggressive and modern appearance.
On the sides, we can see the introduction of plastic protections in the wheel arches and an ascending belt line that connects the front to the rear in a fluid way. The rear also received special attention, incorporating an integrated spoiler and lights that cross the trunk lid, possibly with full-LED technology. The rear bumper follows the same language as the front, with textured details that reinforce the overall robustness.
Technical specifications and abandonment of the V6 engine
One of the main mechanical changes for the 2027 line is the discontinuation of the naturally aspirated V6 engine in favor of an exclusively turbocharged engine. The heart of the new SUV will be the 2.0 EA888 engine in its most recent evolution, the evo5, capable of delivering greater energy efficiency and superior performance at low speeds.
Preliminary data indicates that the new powertrain will offer:
– Potência estimated at 268 horsepower, providing safe overtaking;
– Torque increased by approximately 400 Nm, surpassing the numbers of the previous model;
– Transmissão double-clutch automatic with comfort-oriented calibration;
– Tração integral 4Motion available in the most complete configurations.
The adoption of the MQB Evo platform represents an important technological leap, resulting in greater torsional rigidity and a slight reduction in total weight. Essas characteristics should translate into more precise handling and lower fuel consumption, critical points for vehicles of this size.
Expectations for the interior and equipment
Although images of the cabin have not yet been fully revealed, the interior environment is expected to follow the technological standard seen in the brand’s most recent launches at Ásia. The electronic architecture of the MQB Evo platform allows the integration of advanced driving assistance systems and state-of-the-art connectivity.
The dashboard must adopt a horizontal layout, highlighted by a high-resolution floating infotainment screen and a fully digital and configurable instrument panel. Há the possibility of including a third screen dedicated exclusively to the front passenger, raising the level of on-board entertainment.
The finish promises a leap in quality, with the extensive use of soft-touch materials and customizable ambient lighting. The seven-seat configuration remains unchanged, with easy access to the third row and a trunk that maintains competitive volume even with all seats in use, meeting the demands of large families.
Commercial positioning and competition
Sales of the new model should begin in the second half of the year, shortly after the full reveal in Nova York. The estimated price range places the vehicle between 40 thousand and 55 thousand dollars, keeping it competitive against established rivals such as Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot.
The decision not to offer a hybrid variant at the time of launch reflects a cost-benefit strategy, focusing on mechanical reliability and the final price for the consumer. Volkswagen is betting that the combination of updated design, class-leading internal space and efficient turbo engine will be enough to maintain the model’s relevance in an increasingly competitive segment.
For markets outside of América of Norte, such as Oriente Médio and potentially América Latina, the model serves as a preview of what will be offered under the Teramont nomenclature. No Brasil, the automaker continues to evaluate the feasibility of importing, considering the price positioning above the Tiguan Allspace and the acceptance of large SUVs on the national scene.
