After a hiatus in the US hybrid vehicle segment since 2016 with the Jetta Hybrid, Volkswagen is making a significant comeback. Driven by shifting consumer preferences and a plateauing electric vehicle market, the German automaker has confirmed plans to introduce hybrid powertrains to its popular SUV lineup. Leading the charge are hybrid versions of the VW Tiguan and, crucially for larger families, the Hybrid Vw Atlas, signaling a renewed commitment to the American market and a strategic pivot towards bridging the gap between traditional combustion engines and full electrification.
Volkswagen’s global CEO, Thomas Schäfer, announced at the 2024 LA Auto Show the company’s intention to rapidly deploy new hybrid vehicles in North America. According to an Edmunds report from November 21, 2024, the initial focus will be on integrating hybrid technology into two of Volkswagen’s best-selling SUVs: the Tiguan and the larger Atlas. This move acknowledges the increasing demand for hybrid vehicles among US buyers seeking fuel efficiency without fully committing to electric vehicles, positioning the hybrid VW Atlas as a compelling option in the competitive SUV landscape.
The VW Tiguan Hybrid: Paving the Way for a Hybrid Atlas
While details regarding the specific hybrid technology remain undisclosed, Schäfer confirmed the development of a VW Tiguan Hybrid for the US market as “part of the plan.” The upcoming US-spec Tiguan, slated for release in 2025, is derived from the second-generation Tayron available in Europe, which offers both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. Industry speculation suggests Volkswagen is leaning towards a plug-in hybrid system for the American Tiguan, a strong indication of the technology likely to underpin the future hybrid VW Atlas.
VW Tayron Plug-in Hybrid Drivetrain: A detailed view of the plug-in hybrid system likely to be featured in the upcoming VW Tiguan Hybrid for the US market.
Delving into the Plug-in Hybrid System
The plug-in hybrid system anticipated for the Tiguan, and potentially the hybrid VW Atlas, combines a 1.5-liter TSI evo2 engine from the EA 211 evo2 family with the HEM80evo electric motor. This electric motor delivers 85 kW (114 hp) and 330 Nm of torque and is integrated within the DQ400e evo 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, driving the front wheels.
In its premium configuration, expected to be offered in the US, the gasoline engine produces 130 kW (174 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb.-ft.) of torque. This combination results in a robust total system output of 200 kW (268 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb.-ft.) of torque, promising a balance of performance and efficiency for both the Tiguan and the future hybrid VW Atlas.
Powering the HEM80evo electric motor is a 19.7 kWh NCM battery pack, supporting both AC and DC charging. AC charging at up to 11 kW allows a full charge (0-100% SoC) in approximately two and a half hours. DC fast-charging capability, at up to 40 kW, enables a 10-80% charge in as little as 26 minutes.
This battery capacity translates to a WLTP-estimated electric range of up to 121 km (75 miles) in the top-tier configuration. While EPA ratings are typically more conservative, a projected EPA-estimated range of 50-60 miles suggests substantial electric-only driving capability for the Tiguan and potentially a similar range for the hybrid VW Atlas, making daily commutes primarily electric for many drivers.
VW Atlas Hybrid: Electrifying the Family SUV Segment
Turning to the VW Atlas Hybrid, Schäfer hinted at a singular powertrain offering, stating Volkswagen would “probably only do one.” While the exact nature – full-hybrid or plug-in hybrid – remains unconfirmed for the hybrid VW Atlas, a mild-hybrid approach seems unlikely given US market demands and expectations, especially for a vehicle in the Atlas’s size class.
VW Atlas Peak Edition: The popular VW Atlas SUV is expected to receive a hybrid powertrain in its next generation, anticipated around 2026 for US dealerships.
Crucially, the hybrid powertrain will not be introduced in the current Atlas generation. The second-generation VW Atlas, anticipated to reach US dealerships around 2026, is designated to debut the hybrid variant. This suggests a comprehensive redesign and integration of the hybrid system from the outset for the new generation hybrid VW Atlas, ensuring optimal performance and packaging. Similar to the Tiguan’s rollout, the hybrid VW Atlas might appear at launch or in a subsequent model year shortly after the second-generation’s introduction.
Volkswagen’s strategic shift towards hybrids, exemplified by the upcoming hybrid VW Atlas and Tiguan Hybrid, reflects a pragmatic approach to the evolving automotive market. By offering hybrid options in popular SUV models, VW is poised to capture a significant segment of US buyers seeking enhanced fuel efficiency and a step towards electrification, with the hybrid VW Atlas set to be a key player in this revitalized strategy.
By Sagar Parikh
Web Editor
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
