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Kjell Gruner (above) replaces VW Group of America’s CEO Pablo Di Si, who resigned earlier this month. Gruner is a former Porsche and Rivian executive. Di Si, as did other recent American VW CEOs, had a brief tenure—about two years. He said, “it’s time for a…wellness break.” German publications claim Di Si made several missteps. Yet, others argue Di Si inherited Scott Keogh’s plans. Keogh currently heads VW’s Scout Motors.
Meanwhile, VW introduced the American 2025 Tiguan. It’s based on VW’s MQB evo platform shared with the VW Tayron. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged mill’s horsepower climbs from 184 to 201. VW deleted the previous model’s third-row seat. Optional features include a 15-inch infotainment screen, head-up display and genuine American walnut veneer.
The 2025 Tiguan should arrive in June 2025 without a hybrid option. Its shift lever resides on the steering column. This lets VW reconfigure the front center console, which now sports a rotary controller. That dial with its own display lets you twist and tap a physical dial instead of using VW’s touch-sensing controls.
VW’s ID. Buzz is North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year finalist. The NACTOY winners will be announced during the Detroit Auto Show on January 10t.