Volkswagen slims its model range and is investing hard on its volume models. We have tested the new Volkswagen Tayron in Nice to see what it is going for.
At first glance, you can quite easily mistaken Tayron for an extended Tiguan, but the Germans have put more powder on the model than according to Volkswagen “is manufactured in Europe for Europe”.
The interior is perceived as well thought out. (Photo: Volkswagen)
Between tiguan and touareg
Tayron places itself between Tiguan and Touareg and has a clear premium feeling. The name is a combination of “Tiger” and “Iron” (iron in English).
To stand out from Tiguan, Tayron has received elements from the flagship Touareg, with wooden panels, acoustic glass and a quality feeling that will give a “big car feel”.
Interior is met by a digital dashboard and an infotainment screen of up to 15 inches. Volkswagen has also listened to the criticism and dumped the touch buttons in favor of real knobs and buttons.
Exterior resembles tayron a larger tiguan, with design elements from ŠKODA KODIAQ. The car is almost five meters long and has a clear American appearance. The taillights and front are reminiscent of Volkswagen’s electric cars in the ID series, ie the brand’s electric cars.
Tayron places itself between Tiguan and Touareg. (Photo: Volkswagen)
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Ideal for the family
Tayron is available with up to seven seats and is offered in several driveline options. On site in France we tested two charging hybrids, a four -wheel -drive diesel and a petrol engine with more gunpowder. Regardless of the version, the suspension impresses, but it is slightly stiffer than expected. The compartment is well insulated from noise, even at high speeds.
The steering is light but quite impersonal, and as with all cars on the MQB platform, road maintenance is predictable. You can drive faster than necessary without making the car feel uncomfortable, and Tayron clearly signals when it reaches its boundaries.
The charging hybrid – long range, no four -wheel drive
Tayron is available in two charging hybrid variants. The entry -level model has 204 horsepower and an electrical range of up to 126 kilometers, while the more powerful version delivers 272 horsepower and 117 kilometers range.
Both are front -wheel drive and unfortunately cannot be obtained with seven seats. The difference in driving is small, which makes the cheaper variant the smartest choice.
Volkswagen itself believes that 70 percent of the charging hybrid customers will choose the entry model. However, the gearbox is sometimes hesitant at full gas, and the lack of four-wheel drive reduces the SUV feeling. However, the transition between electricity and gasoline operations takes place smoothly.
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Diesel – a given choice for long -milers
The only diesel coming to Sweden is four -wheel drive with 204 horsepower. It is quiet, fuel efficient and feels well balanced. The powertrain prioritizes the front wheels at full gas, but it is expected for the MQB platform. The pull weight is up to 2,800 kilos.
The gearbox is soft but the gas response in comfort mode is somewhat sluggish. But this is not a SUV for sporty driving, but rather a utility car for those who spend many miles by car.
Gasoline – most premium feeling
The top version has a 265-horse petrol engine from Golf GTI And four -wheel drive. It is surprisingly fast and gives Tayron a more lavish feeling.
There is also a 150-horse entry-level model with front wheel drive, but we were not allowed to test it in France and we hardly think it is the most exciting variant.
Volkswagen Tayron is a successful family car
Volkswagen Tayron shows that the brand is serious about its strategy to focus on its best sellers. The model delivers exactly what one expects from a family suction from the German brand: well thought out solutions, pleasant driving and high quality feeling.
Compared to Tiguan Allspace, Tayron feels more elaborate. The long -term electric range of the charging hybrid is impressive, but the lack of four -wheel drive and seven seats is a disadvantage. The diesel is a given choice for those who drive a long way, while the petrol version in 265-horse version stands out as the most raffling alternative.
Given that 1,200 customers have already placed an order and Kodiaq’s popularity, Tayron can become an important model for Volkswagen. It looks bright in Wolfsburg.
First impression of Volkswagen Tayron: 4.5/5
Volkswagen Tayron charging hybrid
Engine: 2-liter four, gasoline/electricity, 204 horsepower, 350 newtons
Transmission: 6-step double clutch box, front wheel drive
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.6 seconds
Top speed: 210 km/h
Electric range: 119 km
Weight: 1 978 kg
Dimensions (length/width/height): 4792/1853/1666 mm
Price: From 542 900 sec
Volkswagen Tayron gasoline
Engine: 2-liter four, gasoline, 265 horsepower, 400 newtons
Transmission: 7-step double clutch box, four-wheel drive
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 6.1 seconds
Top speed: 240 km/h
Weight: 1 826 kg
Dimensions (length/width/height): 4792/1853/1666 mm
Price: From 582 900 sec
Volkswagen Tayron Diesel
Engine: 2-liter four, diesel, 193 horsepower, 400 newtons
Transmission: 7-step double clutch box, four-wheel drive
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.0 seconds
Top speed: 221 km/h
Weight: 1 868 kg
Dimensions (length/width/height): 4792/1853/1666 mm
Price: From 499 900 sec