VOLKSWAGEN is giving its top-selling Tiguan SUV a major facelift and introducing plug-in hybrid and hot powertrains into the line up.

Most of the new models are due on sale before the end of the year with the PHEV coming on stream early in 2021.

Restyled to take on VW's new design theme as seen on the latest Golf and Arteon models, the facelifted Tiguan will now also be available with an R performance designation.

The Tiguan R has a new all-wheel drive with selective wheel torque control which VW says enables totally new SUV driving dynamics by distributing the drive power variably between the front and rear axles as well as the left and right rear wheels.

It is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine boosted to deliver 316bhp while the plug-in derivative has the same 1.4-litre and electric powertrain that VW is using in the latest Golf PHEV.

The all-electric range of the plug-in is up to 30 miles and it can travel at up to 80mph in zero emission mode.

Other changes across the Tiguan range include new steering wheel controls, upgraded infotainment systems and new touch slider operation for the air conditioning.

Full details of the engine line up for the new Tiguan range are still to be revealed, as are prices although the current model costs from around £25,000.