Volkswagen is upgrading its IQ.Drive advanced driver assistance system for 2027 model-year vehicles, adding new safety and driver-assistance features across several models as the German automaker continues working on its U.S. turnaround.
Volkswagen Expands IQ.Drive for 2027
The updated IQ.Drive system will be available on the Atlas family, Golf family, Tiguan and ID. Buzz. The ID.4 is not included, likely because U.S. production ended earlier this year.
The changes come as Volkswagen explores several plans to improve its fortunes, including the potential introduction of rugged pickups and SUVs to the U.S., where demand for vehicles such as the Ford F-150 is strong.
For 2027, Volkswagen is expanding the availability of Travel Assist with driver-initiated lane changes, Emergency Assist Plus and updated Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (pACC). The company is also introducing a new Rear View Camera System and Road Experience Management (REM) data.
Travel Assist Adds Assisted Lane Changes
The updated Travel Assist system allows drivers to initiate assisted lane changes using the turn signals when the vehicle is traveling above 45 mph.
The system uses rear radar sensors to determine whether the targeted lane is clear before assisting with the maneuver.
Emergency Assist Plus Can Stop the Vehicle
Emergency Assist Plus is designed to respond when the system detects an unresponsive driver. It can automatically move the vehicle toward the side of the road and bring it to a stop.
The feature can activate while either Lane Assist or Travel Assist is operating. When Travel Assist is active, the system uses a more forceful wake-up sequence that includes horn honking, three brake jolts and seatbelt tightening.
If there is not enough room on the shoulder, the vehicle instead moves into the far-right lane.
Updated Cruise Control and Rear Camera System
Volkswagen is also updating Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control. The revised pACC can respond earlier when speed limits increase based on driver accelerator input and can help manage vehicle speed for highway exits and ramps.
A new rearview-camera system will be available on select Atlas, Tiguan and ID. Buzz trims. The system can detect pedestrians behind the vehicle and automatically apply the brakes when the vehicle is reversing at speeds between 1 and 6 mph.
REM Data Adds Road Information
Volkswagen is also bringing cloud-based Road Experience Management data to the 2027 ID. Buzz. Available through an In-Vehicle Premium subscription, the system supports ADAS by using real-world road information from swarm data.
The REM data supplements information collected by the vehicle’s onboard cameras and can help with lane centering when lane markings are not clearly visible.
Volkswagen Emphasizes Safety
Thomas Zorn, Vice President, Vehicle Safety, Volkswagen of America, said, “The protection and peace of mind of our customers is fundamental to all of us at Volkswagen.”
He added, “We already offer one of the most comprehensive packages of ADAS features on the mass market.”
Volkswagen’s 2027 lineup will also bring different changes across its models. The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport receive a complete overhaul, while the Golf and Tiguan largely carry over.
The ID. Buzz is returning for the 2027 model year after skipping the 2026 model year, a pause Volkswagen attributed to managing inventory amid cooler EV demand.
