Volkswagen Tiguan Earns Top Safety Rating from NHTSA
Award-Winning 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan
It has just been announced that the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan has earned a 5-Star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Volkswagen continues to prioritize passenger safety as a cornerstone of its brand identity. To help protect occupants, the all-new 2025 Tiguan, now in its third generation, introduces four new airbags: a driver knee, center, and dual rear side airbags, for a total of ten, with side curtain airbags featuring a larger deployment zone.
Learn More About the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan is a redesigned compact SUV with a more premium interior featuring a standard 12.9-inch infotainment screen and upscale materials. It is powered by a revised 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 201 horsepower and comes with an updated standard safety suite and more advanced driver assistance features. The 2025 model is now exclusively a two-row vehicle and has a slightly shorter wheelbase. All trims come standard with Volkswagen’s sophisticated IQ.DRIVE® Level 2 driver assistance features, including Travel Assist (Level 2 semi-automated driving assistance), Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian & Cyclist Monitoring), Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist. Light Assist, Park Distance Control, and Exit Warning are standard, while Park Assist Plus is available.
Find Your 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan at Thelen VW in Michigan
Let the friendly staff at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, Michigan, assist you in finding the best 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan for you. If we don’t have what you’re looking for, we can help you find it! Give us a call at 989-402-5847 to learn more today.
(Photo Credit: Volkswagen)
Get to Know the 2026 VW Tiguan
2026 Volkswagen Tiguan Overview
The 2026 VW Tiguan raises the bar for compact SUVs with a perfect mix of refined European design, advanced technology, and powerful performance. Designed to handle Michigan’s changing seasons — from snowy winters to scenic lakefront drives — the Tiguan combines style with confidence. Available at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, the 2026 Tiguan introduces a refreshed look, upgraded tech, and an even more comfortable cabin for daily driving in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Exterior Design
The 2026 Tiguan carries Volkswagen’s clean, sculpted design language with modern lighting and premium finishes. Every trim features a confident stance and aerodynamic profile. Distinct LED lighting, refined wheel designs, and R-Line touches on higher trims give each version its own personality.
Exterior Highlights by Trim:
- S: 17-inch alloy wheels, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), and heated mirrors.
- SE: 19-inch two-tone machined alloy wheels and a power liftgate.
- SE R-Line Black: 20-inch black painted alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, R-Line black grille, and illuminated exterior door handles.
- SEL R-Line Turbo: Illuminated front and rear VW badges, lightbars, and sleek body-color lower cladding.
Color options include refined metallic finishes and deep tones that complement the Tiguan’s bold silhouette, making it equally striking around town or on Mid-Michigan backroads.
Performance
Volkswagen engineers the Tiguan for balance — blending turbocharged power with smooth handling and available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive for year-round traction.
Performance Specs:
- Engine: 2.0L TSI® turbocharged engine
- Power: Produces either 201 hp or 268 hp depending on the trim level
- Transmission: Smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission
- Drive Options: Front-wheel drive or available 4MOTION® AWD
From highways connecting Saginaw and Midland to snow-covered routes in Central Michigan, the Tiguan delivers confident stability and responsive control.
Fuel Efficiency
Efficiency meets capability with the Tiguan’s advanced turbo engine design. Drivers can enjoy extended trips around the Great Lakes Bay Region without frequent stops for fuel. Depending on the engine, the Tiguan offers an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway or 22 city / 29 highway mpg. This blend of power and economy ensures the Tiguan remains practical for families, commuters, and adventure-seekers alike.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Tiguan and discover Volkswagen’s craftsmanship. The cabin blends modern design with digital innovation and premium materials that make every drive relaxing and connected.
Interior Features by Trim:
- S: Heated cloth seats, 12.9” touchscreen display, 10.25” Digital Cockpit Pro, and wireless charging.
- SE: Perforated V-Tex leatherette seats, power driver seat, ambient lighting, and remote start.
- SE R-Line Black: Panoramic sunroof, R-Line steering wheel, stainless steel pedal cluster, and black headliner.
- SEL R-Line Turbo: Varenna leather seats with heating, ventilation, and 10-point massage; 15” touchscreen with navigation; Harman Kardon® 12-speaker system; and three-zone climate control.
Cargo versatility remains a strong point, with ample space for weekend getaways or daily errands. The combination of comfort, practicality, and luxury across trims ensures the right fit for every lifestyle in Mid-Michigan.
Safety Features
Volkswagen prioritizes safety with the IQ.DRIVE suite standard across all trims. This intelligent driver-assistance system supports safer travel on urban streets and Michigan highways alike.
Safety Highlights:
- IQ.DRIVE Includes: Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, Front Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Travel Assist & Emergency Assist.
- Airbag System: 10 airbags including front center, rear side, and driver’s knee airbags.
- Park Distance Control: Front and rear sensors on all trims.
- SEL R-Line Turbo: Area View overhead camera for enhanced visibility.
The Tiguan’s advanced safety suite brings reassurance for families navigating Bay City’s busy roads or winter commutes to Midland and Saginaw.
Learn More About the 2026 VW Tiguan in Bay City, Michigan
Visit Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, and discover the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan. Whether you’re commuting through Midland, exploring Saginaw, or enjoying weekend drives around the Great Lakes Bay Region, the Tiguan is designed to make every mile effortless and exciting.
Verification Disclaimer:
All information in this overview was sourced directly from the official Volkswagen website and is accurate to the best of our knowledge.
Keeping Your Volkswagen’s Exterior Looking Great is Easy
Driving around in a clean vehicle makes the journey even more satisfying, knowing you are presenting a confident presence on the road. Helping make your already visually appealing VW vehicle even more stunning by routinely keeping it clean is easy with a little time and know-how. Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, Michigan, is here to help you keep your favorite family cruiser looking great with our favorite tips. Not only are they easy to follow and implement, but you’ll also appreciate the noticeable improvements immediately. If you’d like professionals to handle all your detail work for you instead, Thelen has its own detailing service available, where we will be happy to conduct a thorough cleaning on your vehicle, both inside and out!
Our Favorite Tips for Keeping Our Volkswagen Models Clean
- Invest in Proper Car-Washing Equipment & Supplies – The first step to ensuring a consistent result each time you decide to handwash the exterior of your Volkswagen is having the appropriate supplies and tools on hand. We suggest having several lint-free and/or microfiber cloths available to ensure no scratches are left behind during the cleaning process. A chamois allows you to better dry the water from your vehicle and prevent streaks. Finally, we highly recommend purchasing both a detergent that is designed for automobiles and car wax. Both of these will lend to an overall fantastic finished product.
- Try & Wash Your Vehicle Out of Direct Sunlight – While you’re washing your vehicle, you don’t want the water to dry before you’re ready to properly wipe it off. This is because any dirt or other contaminants that might be in the water will stick to the paint and leave a noticeable watermark if it dries too quickly. As such, we recommend not washing your vehicle when the sun is at its highest or if it is exceptionally hot out during the year.
- Wax Does More Than Shine Up the Paint – After using your favorite detergent to thoroughly clean the exterior of your vehicle, waxing the vehicle offers several benefits. In addition to offering a glistening shine that you’ll love, the wax will also help protect the underlying paint from water and grime. This makes each subsequent cleaning even easier to undertake and makes the overall maintenance of your Volkswagen’s exterior more consistent over time.
(Photo Credit: PEXELS)
What Are the 2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport Trim Levels?
2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport Trim Levels
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a mid-size, two-row SUV that blends spacious utility with refined style. With a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI® engine producing 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, it steps confidently into Michigan winters and weekend getaways alikeGood cargo space—up to 77.6 cu ft with seats folded—makes it well-suited for active families or outdoor adventures in the Central Michigan region. Standard driver-assist and connected services enhance its appeal for buyers seeking modern safety and convenience.
Trims and Pricing
VW lists five primary trims for the 2026 Atlas Cross Sport: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line.
SE
The SE serves as the entry trim with a starting MSRP of $38,300. It features:
- 2.0 TSI engine, front‐wheel drive
- 18” alloy wheels, LED headlights and Adaptive Front Lighting System
- V-Tex leatherette seat trim, heated / ventilated front seats, and Climatronic® dual-zone automatic climate control system
- 12” touchscreen infotainment system, Digital Cockpit Pro and wireless charging
- Lane change system with side assist and rear traffic control, adaptive cruise control and Front Assist (forward collision warning and autonomous braking)
SE with Technology
The SE with Technology builds on the SE and pricing starts at $42,720 MSRP for FWD and $44,620 for AWD.
- 20-inch alloy wheels, front grille integrated light bar and hands-free remote power rear liftgate
- 8-way power driver’s seat and heated steering wheel
SEL
The SEL trim steps further into premium territory, with a price starting at $48,610 MSRP for AWD. It builds on the previous trim level, adding:
- Heated washer nozzles and power tilting/ sliding panoramic sunroof
- Leather seating, 10-way power driver’s seat, 8-way front passenger seat, multi-color ambient lighting system and heated outboard second row seats
- Navigation and head-up display
- Dynamic road sign system
SEL R-Line Black
For a sportier look and feel, the SEL R-Line Black trim brings unique styling cues and enhanced equipment, priced starting at $50,560 MSRP for AWD. Building on the SEL, this trim adds:
- 20-inch black alloy wheels and R-Line Black styling
- Stainless steel pedal caps and foot rest
SEL Premium R-Line
At the top of the lineup sits the SEL Premium R-Line, starting at $53,620 MSRP. This version also builds on the SEL, adding:
- 21” alloy wheels and R-Line exterior styling
- Perforated Vienna leather seating, massaging front seats
- Harmon Kardon® premium audio system
- Overhead view camera system
Learn More About the 2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport Trim Levels in Bay City
If you’re looking for a well-rounded SUV with strong performance, modern tech, and real usefulness for Mid-Michigan roads, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is for you. Visit Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City today and learn about which trim fits your lifestyle.
Volkswagen Golf GTI and R Named 2026 Car of the Year
Award-Winning Volkswagen Golf GTI and R
MotorTrend recently announced that the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R have been jointly named MotorTrend’s 2026 Car of the Year. Each “Car of the Year” contender is judged against its competitors in the field as well as by MotorTrend’s six key criteria: advancement in design, engineering excellence, performance of intended function, value, safety, and efficiency. MotorTrend praised the Volkswagen Golf models for their build quality, driving dynamics, modern design, advanced technology, and value.
Learn More About the Volkswagen Golf GTI/R
Designers refined the Golf’s appearance with updated headlights, reshaped bumpers, and subtle GTI badging that adds a sharper edge. The Golf R pushes the transformation further. Beyond replacing GTI logos with R insignias, the available Euro Style package trims weight with lighter sport seats, removal of the sunroof, and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust. Every Golf comes standard with a 12.9-inch infotainment screen featuring quicker, more intuitive software and an array of everyday conveniences. Both the Golf GTI and R are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The GTI produces 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the front wheels. The Golf R pushes the same engine to 328 hp and 295 lb-ft—a 13-hp increase over the 2024 model—also paired with a seven-speed twin-clutch, but with all-wheel drive.
Find Your Volkswagen Golf GTI or R at Thelen VW
The expert staff at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, Michigan, can assist you in finding the best 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI or R for you and your budget. If we don’t have what you’re looking for in terms of trim level, we can help you order what you really want. Give us a call at 989-402-5847 to learn more today!
What Are the 2026 VW Atlas Trim Levels?
2026 Volkswagen Atlas Trim Levels
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is a versatile family SUV designed to accommodate diverse lifestyles. With three rows of seating, it offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families and adventurers alike. The Atlas is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0 TSI® engine, providing a robust 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. Its impressive towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds further enhances its utility.
Trims and Pricing
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is available in several trims, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences and needs. Below is an overview of the available trims:
- Atlas SE
- Exterior: Sleek design with LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights,18” alloy wheels, heated foldable power adjustable side mirrors, and a bold front grille.
- Interior: Spacious cabin with V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces, eight-way power driver’s seat, heated / ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, 12-inch infotainment system touchscreen, wireless charging for compatible devicing, and Digital Cockpit Pro.
- Performance: Drive mode selection and eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Safety: IQ.Drive smart driver assistance technology, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Change System with Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert and Exit Warning.
- Starting MSRP: $39,310
- Atlas SE with Technology – builds on SE
- Exterior: 20-inch alloy wheels, front grille with integrated light bar, hands-free power liftgate and sunroof.
- Safety: Park Distance Control – front and rear
- Starting MSRP: $43,730
- Atlas Peak Edition – builds on SE with Technology
- Exterior: 18” alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, Atlas Peak Edition bumpers and exterior styling and power-tilting/ sliding panoramic sunroof.
- Interior: Peak Edition interior styling and multi-color ambient lighting.
- Performance: 4Motion® All-Wheel Drive
- Starting MSRP: $48,060
- Atlas SEL – builds on SE with Technology
- Exterior: 20-inch alloy wheels and heated washer nozzles.
- Interior: Leather seating, head-up display, 10-way driver seat, eight-way front passenger seat, and heated second-row outboard seats
- Performance: Enhanced with 4MOTION® all-wheel drive for better handling.
- Starting MSRP: $49,620
- Atlas SEL Premium R-Line – builds on SEL
- Exterior: Distinctive R-Line styling and 21” alloy wheels.
- Interior: Perforated Vienna leather seats, massaging front seats and Harman Kardon® premium audio system.
- Safety: Equipped with a 360-degree camera system.
- Starting MSRP: $54,630
Learn More About the 2026 VW Atlas at Thelen Volkswagen
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is perfect for those seeking a spacious, powerful, and stylish SUV. Whether you’re navigating the snowy roads of Mid-Michigan or embarking on a family road trip, the Atlas is equipped to handle it all. Ready to elevate your driving experience? Visit Thelen VW in Bay City, MI, and discover your next adventure in the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas.
Tailgating Tips from Thelen VW
Now that football season is here, it’s the perfect time for spending time with friends and tailgating! Here are some helpful tips and tricks from the staff at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, Michigan, to ensure your tailgating experience goes smoothly.
Tips and Tricks for Tailgating
- Pick the Right Equipment – When it comes to tailgating, grilling is very popular. A portable, easy-to-use grill can be your best friend, enabling you to whip up everything from juicy burgers to skewered vegetables. A sturdy cooler will keep your drinks chilled and food fresh.
- Seating Options – You’re probably going to want to have some options for when you sit down to eat, whether that’s camping chairs, a picnic blanket, a pop-up awning, or some combination of the above.
- Fun Games for the Whole Group – No tailgate is complete without some fun and games. From traditional games like cornhole and ladder toss to frisbee or even football, these activities can keep everyone entertained before the big game starts!
- Cleaning Supplies – You don’t want to leave your tailgating site a total mess, nor do you want your car to become a rolling dumpster. Bring some baggies for leftover food and some big garbage bags for disposing of waste. We also recommend having a roll or two of aluminum foil, which can be useful in wrapping up leftovers.
(Photo Credit: PEXELS)
Learn More About 2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport
2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport Overview
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport blends style, versatility, and performance into a two-row midsize SUV that feels right at home in Michigan. With its sleek profile, ample cargo space, and advanced safety technology, it offers a modern solution for drivers in Mid-Michigan who need room and capability without sacrificing design.
Exterior Design
The Atlas Cross Sport features a bold, coupe-like silhouette with a wide stance and striking front fascia. Available R-Line trims add sport-inspired accents for those who want an edgier look.
- Sleek, athletic body design
- Distinctive LED headlights and taillights with Adaptive Front Lighting System
- 18-, 20- and 21-inch alloy wheel options
- Available hands-free easy open/ close remote power rear liftgate
Performance
Every trim comes with Volkswagen’s turbocharged 2.0 TSI® engine, engineered for smooth yet responsive driving. Mid-Michigan drivers will appreciate the confident handling on snowy roads and the available 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive system.
- Turbocharged 2.0L TSI® engine
- 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- 4MOTION® AWD available for enhanced traction
- Capable of handling city commutes and weekend trips north with ease
- Estimated 20 mph city / 27 mpg highway (FWD) or 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (AWD)
Interior and Comfort
The cabin prioritizes comfort and connectivity with premium materials and intuitive design. Whether commuting in Bay City or heading toward Midland or Saginaw, the Atlas Cross Sport keeps every passenger connected and comfortable.
- Two-row seating for up to 5 passengers
- 10.25” Digital Cockpit display with choice of four views
- Wireless App-Connect® with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Available Harman Kardon® premium audio system
- Wireless charging for compatible devices
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- V-Tex leatherette or leather upholstery
- Eight-way power driver’s seat (with power front passenger seat added in upper trims)
- Climatronic® automatic dual-zone climate control system
Safety Features
Volkswagen equips the Atlas Cross Sport with advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies, ideal for Michigan winters and unpredictable road conditions. Standard IQ.DRIVE® driver-assistance suite with features such as:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Assist
- Emergency Assist
- Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Rear Traffic Alert
Learn More About the 2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport in Bay City Today
Ready to upgrade your drive in Mid-Michigan? Visit Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, near Saginaw and Midland, to explore the 2026 VW Atlas Cross Sport. Discover style, space, and technology tailored for your next adventure.
Affordable and Backed By Great Benefits – Certified PreOwned
Are you in the market for an affordable, gently used vehicle that comes with great benefits? Look no further than a Certified PreOwned (CPO) Volkswagen available at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, Michigan. We offer a great rotating selection of CPO options to choose from on our lot, all of which are available for test drives. Give us a call at 989-402-5847 or use our online test drive scheduler today!
The Volkswagen Certified PreOwned Program
When you purchase a car, you want confidence for the long haul, which is why every Certified Pre-Owned Volkswagen comes with a Model-Specific Limited Warranty. Model year 2018/2019 includes a 1-Year or 12,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty. Model year 2020 and newer includes a 2-Year or 24,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty. Any electric vehicle from 2018 or newer includes a 3-Year or 36,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty. A Volkswagen must pass a 100-point inspection to ensure it meets VW’s CPO standards. You will also have access to a CarFax vehicle history report, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a 3-month SiriusXM Satellite Radio trial subscription.
Check Out the CPO Options at Thelen VW
When you are ready to find your next Certified PreOwned Volkswagen, trust the experts at Thelen VW in Michigan to assist you in finding the best option for you. In our current inventory, we have a great variety of family-friendly, spacious SUVs like the pictured 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan SE. Stop in today to take a test drive!
Get to Know the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas SUV
2026 VW Atlas Overview
The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is a family-friendly SUV that combines spaciousness with modern features, making it a strong choice in the competitive midsize SUV market. From its sporty styling to robust performance, the Atlas aims to elevate every Central Michigan drive.
Design and Interior
The Atlas is designed with a focus on comfort and practicality. It boasts a large interior that can accommodate up to seven passengers, making it ideal for families. The cabin is equipped with high-quality materials and offers ample cargo space, ensuring that it meets the needs of everyday life.
- Heated and ventilated front seats. Some upper trims add heated outboard second row seats, while the SEL Premium R-Line trim wows with massaging front seats.
- V-Tex leatherette or leather seats depending on trim
- Climatronic® tri-zone automatic climate control
- 12” touchscreen display for infotainment system with wireless charging
Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Atlas features a engine that provides balanced performance suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
- Engine Type: Turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI® paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission
- Horsepower: 269 hp
- Torque: 273 lb-ft
- Drivetrain Options: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) available on some trims.
Driver Assistance / Safety Features
Safety is a priority for the Atlas, which comes with a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect occupants. VW’s feature filled IQ.DRIVE suite includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Travel Assist
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Front Assist
- Emergency Assist
- Lane Assist
Learn More About the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas in Bay City, Michigan
The 2026 VW Atlas stands out in the midsize SUV segment with its spacious interior, strong performance, and family-friendly features. While it faces competition from rivals, its combination of practicality and modern technology makes it a compelling choice for families looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle. Thelen VW, convenient to Saginaw, Midland and Mt Pleasant, is the Mid-Michigan place to go to learn more about the 2026 VW Atlas!
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