VW Tharu crossover teased for Philippine market

Volkswagen Philippines has posted a teaser for an upcoming model. Just like most teasers, details of the car are hidden, but we might have an idea of what this vehicle is judging by the shape of its LED headlamps. 

The VW Tharu teaser posted on social media

If we took a peek at other VW models offered in other markets, then the teaser resembles the Tharu crossover. It also goes by the name “Taos” in other parts of the world, but we think it will assume the Tharu name locally since that’s the moniker it uses in China under SAIC-Volkswagen. For those unaware, VW Philippines sources its models from China. 

Within the Volkswagen lineup, it slots in as a step up from the smaller T-Cross. It is derived from the Skoda Karoq, and it is classed as a compact crossover. This means it will face the likes of the Chevrolet Trax, GAC Emkoo, Toyota RAV4,  Ford Territory, Hyundai Tucson, etc. in the local market. 

The Chinese-spec VW Tharu

Being a teaser, no specs were mentioned for the upcoming VW model. If we referenced the Chinese model however, then the Philippine-spec version might come with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that can produce up to 148 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. 

Power is then sent to its front wheels via a seven-speed direct-shift gearbox or a five-speed manual transmission. It is doubtful, however, if the manual will get to the local market upon considering how other locally available VW models are specced. 

In China, this VW crossover also has a 187 horsepower all-wheel-drive version and a fully electric version dubbed the “e-Tharu.” These two sound interesting but we doubt that these are the ones we’ll be getting in the local market. But regardless of which version the local market is getting, we’re hoping it gets an advanced driver-assistive safety suite just like the one sold in China.

The Chinese VW Tharu from the rear

As with most speculations regarding teasers, take what’s said here with a grain of salt. But what about you, do you really think this is the Tharu/Taos or is it another VW model entirely? 

For more updates on this upcoming Volkswagen model and other automotive industry updates, keep it here on Philkotse.