Have you ever stood in front of a VW Polo and thought “hmm, too boring…” then turned to its crossover cousin T-Cross and decided “meh, not sexy enough?” Well, it appears that Volkswagen was watching you…
You should know: Based on the same MQB A0 platform as the new Polo and T-Cross, the Taigo shares many of their components yet offers that trendy coupé crossover style with extra space and ride height. Like the other two, this FWD is only available with a 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and 7-speed automated double-clutch gearbox.
More info: That keeps things relatively simple for the local retailers because they only have to worry about three spec levels: Life, Style and this sporty R-Line with prices from about 450k to just over 500,000. Exactly why we needed another SUV ever-so-slightly above the handsome T-Cross is beyond me. And, alas, VW hasn’t invited NamWheels to a product launch in years…
VW hasn’t invited NamWheels to a product launch in years…
Why you shouldn’t: This will be a matter of taste or opinion. My deal breaker was the optional Black Style Package: with mirror caps, windows, alloys, exhaust tips and radiator dipped in some more Schwarz! Happily, VW gives you plenty of choice to customise the look and features of your new Taigo… unhappily, most of them cost a pretty penny.
Why you should: After zipping around for a few days with this fairly comfortable, well-specified, roomy and responsive little crossover effort, I realised that it offers good value for money. The standard features obviously differ between variants, but VW includes a 3-year/120,000km warranty and 3-year/45,000km service plan with each sale.
What else? Some of the highlights (in this model) include clever LED headlights, plenty of power or remote goodies, auto lights and wipers, most modern safety aids, climate control and ambient lighting. There are also loads of storage, charging, media and comfort features in this new Taigo, and best of all: the optional “Discover Media” navigation system includes maps for Namibia.
Happy Days!
FULL SPECLIST
| Engine: | 999cc in-line 3-cylinder turbo-petrol |
| Transmission: | 7-speed DCT, FWD |
| Max. Power: | 85kW @ 5000rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 200Nm @ 2000rpm |
| Avg. cons.: | Claimed 5.4L/100km |
| 0-100km/h: | seconds (claimed 10) |
| Top Speed: | Claimed 200km/h |
| List Price: | R503,000 |
I can’t wait to get one , this is a very stylish car will look good in my street :)))