It is evident by the number of SUVs on our showroom floors, that motor manufacturers are moving away from the traditional four door saloon cars with a boot, to a more compact and versatile mode of transport. The buyer of today wants a vehicle that takes you to and from work during the week and can be used at weekends to explore the countryside with the family and lots of luggage in the back.
Volkswagen has been travelling down this road for some time now and has five SUV type models on offer in South Africa, the T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg. The sixth model to now join the range is the Taigo the first coupe SUV to add some style and sparkle to the offer. Highlights of the new Taigo are high-quality equipment, raised seating position, high level of body rigidity, excellent crash properties and low body weight.
From a styling point of view the Taigo stands out from the crowd boasting a striking coupe silhouette with its strong sloping C-pillars. From the side the exceptionally large wheels, wheel arches and sharp lines dominate the look. From the rear the overhang has been extended to produce an impressive 440 litres luggage compartment and the rear lights feature LED technology. The long roofline sloping elegantly towards the rear and merging into the roof spoiler at the level of the rear window. Flatter and longer that the T-Cross with a ground clearance of 137mm. Long wheelbase of 2.566 mm gives all passengers a comfortable and elevated seating position.
The LED headlights extend far into the black radiator grille and the bonnet also extends into the grille. Bumper emphasises the width of the vehicle giving an all round sporty look. Eight exterior colours to choose from, two solid, five metallic and one pearl effect. All body colours except Deep Black Pearl can be combined with a contrasting black roof, and alloy wheels are also available in 16-inch or 18-inch.
Many features have been added to the Taigo including the following:
- Digitalised Interior
- 2-Zone Climatronic air conditioner
- Progressive Lighting
- IQ Drive Travel Assist
- Predictive ACC
- Side Assist plus Lane Assist
- Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist
- Driver Alert System
- Park Assist
Three equipment lines are available, the Taigo Life, Taigo Style and the Taigo R-Line version. Some of the features in the Life are LED Headlights and taillights, Digital clock, 6.5 inch monitor, multi-function leather steering wheel, front arm rest, electric folding mirrors, 16-inch Belmopan alloy wheels, black roof rails, textured carpet, and seats unholstered in Slash/Stott fabric.
The Style option adds a chrome strip and diffuser to the rear bumper, silver roof rails, 17-inch allow Aberdeen wheels, 10.25 -inch Digital cockpit, 8-inch media infotainment system and pale grey seat covers.
The R-Line comes with R-Line styled front and rear bumpers, chrome look integrated exhaust panels, black exterior accents, black radiator grille, darkened side windows and 18-inch Misano alloy wheels in black.
Many options are also available over the standard features such as tilting sunroof, Keyless Entry, Rear View Camera, heated seats, Voice control navigation and many more options.
Powered with the 1.0 TSi engine producing 85 kW and 200 Nm. The three cylinder engine is linked to a seven speed DSG transmission with fuel consumption of 5.4 litres/100 kms and 0 to 100 kms/hr in 11.3 seconds.
Available in June 2022
