Volkswagen Taigo makes European debut

The new Volkswagen Taigo made its European debut, and it is the first SUV coupe from the German automaker. The new model focuses on design, individuality, and emotion. Technically, it is a small crossover that will slot in between T-Cross and the T-Roc. 

On the outside, the Taigo comes with familiar design cues that were adapted from some of its stablemates. Notably, the new model is actually based on the Volkswagen Nivus, with both crossovers sharing a number of commonalities. It features a clean-cut exterior accentuated with some strong proportions and a coupe-like silhouette. Dimensions wise, the small crossover will be longer and wider than the T-Cross but lower in height given its sloping roofline.

What you see in the video is the Taigo R-Line. Notable exterior highlights include the LED headlamps, the black contrast trim on its bumper, faux exhaust pipes, and the unified LED taillights which sort of mimic the one found on the T-Cross.

Stepping inside the cabin, you are welcomed by a well-appointed dashboard that flaunts its large infotainment system. It also gets other features like a digital gauge cluster that’s presumably available on select variants of the Taigo. The seat upholstery, on the other hand, is somewhat reminiscent of the ones used on the Golf GTI. Aside from that, the Volkswagen Taigo will also be available with driver-assist features such as city emergency brake function and lane departure warning system.

Like the T-Cross, the Volkswagen Taigo also sits on the MQB platform. Customers will get to choose between two powertrain options, namely a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine that could produce either 94 hp or 108 hp. There’s also a larger 1.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine that churns out 148 hp. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 7-speed DCT.

The Volkswagen Taigo is mainly marketed for Europe and there are still no official words if the new model is set to reach the ASEAN region. Now, if only the Taigo were built in China by SAIC-Volkswagen, then there could be a chance that the Philippine market could get this model in the near future. We’re certainly crossing our fingers on that.