Volkswagen has revealed what could be its range topping Tiguan compact 4x4 model, which goes on sale in February.

The Tiguan R-line has been developed by Individual, a VW-owned business which developed the Golf R32, Eos Individual and BlueMotion vehicles.

Individual’s influence on the Tiguan R-Line extends to a set of 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, a unique set of front and rear bumpers, wheel arch extensions and colour-coded sills. The grille section is also new and features a pair of split chrome bars.

Inside the R-Line adds sports seats and a flat bottomed multifunction steering wheel to the standard equipment list.

VW is offering a 148bhp TSI petrol and 138bhp TDI diesel engines from launch. However, a range-topping 198bhp petrol engine will also be available next summer.

The R-Line model is likely to be sold in the UK as the new range-topping trim level similar to the Altitude line-up currently applied to the Touareg model.

Prices for the standard Tiguan are set to start at £19,370 on the road for the entry-level 1.4-litre TSI before rising to £23,750 for the 2.0-litre TDI model equipped with a six-speed Tiptronic gearbox.