2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace release date, specs & features news: Seven-seat version of SUV confirmed for 2017 NAIAS debut

Volkswagen has confirmed that the 2017 Tiguan Allspace will make its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January 2017. The introduction of the Tiguan Allspace serves to expand the range of Volkswagen's popular crossover. To preview the upcoming vehicle, Volkswagen has also released a teaser sketch.

Allspace will be the longer model of the second-generation Tiguan sports utility vehicle (SUV). According to a press release from Volkswagen, the 2017 Tiguan Allspace's wheelbase has been extended by 11 cm which translates to more spacious interiors. As a result, there will be seating for up to seven passengers. The upcoming model is also said to come with a range of new equipment features.

The longer version of the crossover will carry the Allspace nameplate in Europe but in North America, it will simply be marketed as an additional model of the Tiguan SUV. It will be built using the Volkswagen Group MQB platform architecture for transverse, front-engine and front-wheel drive vehicles. It also has the chassis that underpins vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 and the Å koda Octavia Mk3.

Ahead of its debut, the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan has already been spotted on the streets without any kind of disguise. Based on the spy shots, the upcoming vehicle will have a chunkier rear overhang and a longer rear door which would give passengers access to the third row seats.

While technical specifications have yet to be revealed, a diesel powertrain isn't expected to arrive in the United States due to Volkswagen's cheating emissions scandal. According to Left Lane News, the Tiguan Allspace might possibly get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is mated to a dual-clutch automatic transmission. It is also expected that the 4Motion all-wheel drive system will be offered as an optional feature.

The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace will be revealed at the 2017 NAIAS which is scheduled to take place in Detroit, Michigan on Jan. 8–22, 2017. It is slated for release in North America in late 2017.