Volkswagen Philippines is launching the Tharu on September 29, 2023

Volkswagen Philippines has just recently confirmed that the Tharu crossover will be an official member of the country’s VW lineup by September 29, 2023. 

This news comes after teaser photos of the model were shown online, sparking a few questions and bits of excitement for the German brand in the Philippines. Currently, VW’s crossover selection includes the T-Cross. 

Size-wise, the Tharu according to international specs, measures 4,453mm long, 1,841mm wide, and 1,635mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,680mm. The Tharu is bigger than the T-Cross by a few hundred millimeters putting it more comfortably in the segment of compact crossovers. 

As for the other specifications, we can speculate that the Tharu will come with at least a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine. Either that or it will come with a 2.0-liter that’s also turbocharged. The boosted motors are capable performers on paper, with the 1.5-liter making 158 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The 2.0-liter is more exciting on paper with 184 hp and 320 Nm of torque, though the prospect of the larger engine entering the Philippine market might make things a little too expensive. As for the transmission on offer, VW will be equipping the gasoline engines with its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The DSG, as it is known in acronym form, or Direct Shift Gearbox spelled out, there is also has a 4Motion all-wheel drive system available for the 2.0-liter powertrain, however, the 1.5-liter powertrains will be front-wheel-drive only. 

Other features in the international market include a panoramic sunroof, a digital gauge cluster, and a large infotainment display (likely the same size as the T-Cross at 9.2 inches), definitely a reverse camera, and we also expect an interior with quirky color-blocking, perhaps in line with the T-Cross’ persona. 

Apart from that, the general aesthetic of the Tharu is out in the open and open to be judged. It’s quite similar to the T-Cross, with more pronounced features like the bigger headlights, and also the more present taillights. 

Price-wise, we’re expecting the model to hit around the P1,500,000 mark, though Volkswagen Philippines will be revealing its official price soon enough. All we have to do is wait for September 29, 2023.