We initially covered the Volkswagen Tiguan R Line way back in December 2007 (when we were but pups), but it looks like the sporty and sleek Tiguan variant is finally ready to join the line-up.

The Tiguan R Line, unlike its R36 and R50 siblings (and the Golf V R32), is all about style rather than power.

The Tiguan R Line features sportier styling befitting the R badge, including a colour-coded splitter along the bottom of the front bumper, and a satin chrome grille.

Sizeable 19-inch R Line alloy rims shod with 255/40 rubber sit beneath blistered guards, while colour-coded sill extensions and a subtle diffuser features on the rear bumper.  The rear styling is topped by a roof-mounted lip spoiler.

The interior gets a new sportier R-emblazoned flat-bottomed tiller with steering-mounted controls, and new seats with subtle raised bolstering to keep driver and passenger securely in place.

The VW Tiguan R Line is available with either a 104kW (140hp) or 126kW (170hp) 2.0 litre common-rail TDI engine, or the range-topping 149kW (200hp) TSI petrol mill.

Expected to land in the UK in June, the Tiguan R Line starts at £24,635 for the 2.0 litre 104kW TDI, up to £26,305 for the TSI.

There’s no official word from Volkswagen Australia on when we should expect to see it on Aussie shores.  Still, if you’re considering the Tiguan and have a little extra dosh to put towards it, it might just be worth waiting a little longer…

In the mean time, check out Tony’s review of the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 103 TDI.