Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo lands a spot on 2026 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX List

Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced that the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo has been named to the Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX List 2026.

The annual Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX List evaluates all-new or heavily redesigned vehicle interiors and user-experience technology, with scoring based on a variety of categories including design and aesthetics, comfort, materials, fit-and-finish, connectivity and infotainment, displays and controls, as well as advanced driver assist systems and overall value.

“This recognition highlights what the Tiguan is engineered to deliver: a thoughtfully elevated interior that blends premium materials, advanced digital technology, and exceptional comfort to create a truly refined experience.,” said Petar Danilovic, SVP, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America.

“In a landscape where there are a seemingly endless number of compact SUVs from different brands, there is a similarity to many of the interiors. Yet with the Tiguan, VW designers have created something different, distinctive and desirable,” shared one of the judges, Gary Vasilash.

Judge Drew Winter added, “Considering the average vehicle costs approximately $50,000, our $45,000 Tiguan test car is way above average with features we only find on much more expensive vehicles. The front seats both have a massaging feature and are heated and ventilated. The two outboard seats in back are heated, as well.”

The third-generation Tiguan balances spaciousness and comfort within a compact SUV footprint, delivering more power, improved fuel efficiency, and  safety-enhancing features over the outgoing model, alongside a premium cabin and more expressive exterior design. Trims for model year 2026 include S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and a new SEL R-Line Turbo. The latter boasts a new 268-hp 2.0-liter EA888 evo5 engine, and all trims benefit from a revised Travel Assist system with driver-initiated lane change capability. Pricing starts at $30,805 MSRP. Destination is $1,475 for all trims.

The 2026 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX awards ceremony will take place as part of the outlet’s AutoTech event, scheduled for June 2–4 at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, MI. All winning vehicles will be on display during the conference, complete with power inverters to showcase interior lighting and UX functionality.