The Tiguan Turbo powerplant also has several changes shared with the lower power engine, such as higher fuel injection pressure, raised from 5076 psi (350 bar) to 7252 psi (500 bar). There are further tweaks to the intake, intercooler, and lubrication system, including a higher-displacement vane-type oil pump. Changes to reduce friction include optimized chain drives for the camshafts and oil pump. The engine is bolted to an 8-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The Tiguan Turbo has standard 4Motion® all-wheel drive.

In addition to the power improvement, third-generation Tiguan models weigh up to ~170 pounds less than the outgoing model, helping both fuel economy and acceleration. EPA-estimated fuel economy is not yet available and will be released at a later time, as will pricing closer to launch this Fall. The weight savings are in large part due to the use of lightweight materials in the body structure and suspension, as well as to changes to the braking system.