Volkswagen introduces its latest must-have item, the Taigo
When Volkswagen introduces a new vehicle, we take notice. The Polo has been a favourite within its segment for ages, the T-Cross was an instant hit and still is. The T-Roc has become a common sight on our roads and the Tiguan remains the desire of many. The Taigo now adds more options and completes the T-SUV range offered by Volkswagen.
The Taigo slots in-between the T-Cross and the T-Roc as it blends compact dimensions with a focus on unique styling. Which brings us to some of the design highlights which we adore. From the front the Taigo exudes a sporty appeal thanks to a visually appealing front bumper, IQ.Light LED headlights (LED are standard across the range) as well as an LED light bar that runs the length of the front grille. Volkswagen will be offering three different styling options namely the Life, Style and R-Line. At launch, we sampled the flagship R-Line model which has all the bells and even more whistles.
The rear of the Taigo is equally as seductive as the front. The rear lights feature LED technology as standard, which makes for a charismatic daytime and night-time signature. The side view is also characterized by very precise and sharp lines, which, together with the large wheels and offset wheel arch cladding, emphasize the crossover character of the Taigo.
Step inside and you will find a familiar interior to that offered by the Polo, on which this car is based. Standard features include items such as a Digital Cockpit, 6.5-inch Composition Colour infotainment system, App-Connect, We Connect Go, USB-C interface, multi-function leather steering wheel, electrically folding exterior mirrors with heating function. The launch vehicle however featured a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, Active Info Display, and an 8-inch Composition Media infotainment system as well as Beast Audio and a panoramic sunroof. While the Taigo does come with a long list of standard items, one will have to tick a few options off the options list to get the ultimate Taigo… Something worth doing in my opinion.
When it comes to practicality the Taigo will not disappoint. The luggage compartment volume is an impressive 440 litres. The Taigo is flatter and longer than the T-Cross and has a ground clearance of 137 mm.
All Taigo models are fitted with the brand's familiar 1.0-litre turbo charged motor. This TSI engine produces 85kW of power and up to 200Nm of torque and sends power to the front wheels via a 7-speed DSG gearbox. The combination is great as power is available at all stages. In fact, one could get into trouble with law enforcement if not careful.
When it comes to ride quality the Taigo does try to offer a blend of both comfort and sportiness. Our test unit was fitted with optional 18-inch wheels which did highlight the rather poor state of the road surface around the Vaal. On the highway however, the Taigo offers a rather compliant ride. We got the chance to throw it though some corners around the Cradle of Humankind and its sporty undertones do impress.
Overall the Taigo is yet another Volkswagen product that we wouldn't mind having on our driveway. Prices range from R429 900, but we got behind the wheel of the range-topping R-Line model priced at R486 000 before options. We are however certain that the Taigo will become a popular sight on our roads, just like the T-Cross, T-Roc and Tiguan, and rightfully so. It’s an impressive product.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Taigo cost in South Africa?
The Volkswagen Taigo starts from around R389,900 for the base Life model, with the mid-spec Style variant priced at approximately R419,900, and the flagship R-Line model commanding around R459,900 in South Africa.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Taigo worth buying?
The Taigo is absolutely worth buying if you want a stylish crossover that stands out from the crowd, offering more personality than the T-Cross while being more affordable than the T-Roc, making it excellent value at R389,900.
Q: How does the Taigo compare to other Volkswagen SUVs?
The Taigo sits perfectly between the T-Cross and T-Roc, offering more style and space than the T-Cross at R389,900 versus R329,900, while being more affordable than the T-Roc which starts at R499,900.
Q: What are the key features of the Volkswagen Taigo?
The Taigo comes standard with LED headlights, a 6.5-inch infotainment system, Digital Cockpit, App-Connect, and electrically folding mirrors, while the R-Line adds a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro and 8-inch media system.
Q: What engine options are available in the Taigo?
The Taigo offers a range of efficient TSI petrol engines, with power outputs ranging from 70kW to 110kW, paired with either manual or DSG automatic transmissions depending on the variant chosen.
Should You Buy It?
The best stylish crossover under R460,000 in South Africa is definitely the Volkswagen Taigo R-Line at R459,900. This isn't just another box on wheels, it's a proper head-turner that combines the practicality you need with the looks you want. At R389,900 for the base Life model, you're getting LED lights all round, proper tech, and build quality that'll make your neighbours jealous. The Taigo fills that sweet spot between boring and expensive, offering more character than a T-Cross without the premium price of a T-Roc. If you want a crossover that doesn't look like every other school run special, buy the Taigo.
