The automotive landscape in Australia is about to welcome a sophisticated new entrant, as Volkswagen prepares to launch its latest three-row SUV, the Tayron. Set to arrive in showrooms around September or October 2025, this German-engineered vehicle represents more than just a replacement for the outgoing Tiguan Allspace – it marks a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s SUV lineup.
From Wolfsburg with Love
Unlike its predecessor, which rolled off production lines in Mexico, the Tayron proudly carries the “Made in Germany” badge, being manufactured at Volkswagen’s historic Wolfsburg facility. This shift in production location isn’t just a geographical change; it represents a return to European craftsmanship and engineering excellence that has long been associated with the Volkswagen brand.
Power and Performance: The Heart of the Matter
Triple Threat: A Powertrain for Every Need
The Australian market is set to receive three distinct petrol powertrains, each carefully calibrated to meet different driving demands and preferences. Government approval documents reveal a lineup that mirrors the upcoming new-generation Tiguan, suggesting a well-thought-out strategy for the brand’s SUV portfolio.
Entry-Level Excellence: The 110TSI
At the gateway to the Tayron range sits the 110TSI powertrain, featuring a turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine. This front-wheel-drive configuration delivers a respectable 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque, proving that entry-level doesn’t mean compromised performance. It’s worth noting that while European markets enjoy a more advanced 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid technology, Australian buyers will receive the tried-and-tested 1.4-litre unit.
Moving Up: The 150TSI All-Wheel Drive
The mid-range option comes in the form of the 150TSI, featuring a more substantial 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Paired with Volkswagen’s innovative new ‘4Motion’ all-wheel-drive system, this powertrain promises to deliver enhanced performance and capability. While Australian torque figures haven’t been confirmed, the UK-spec Tiguan with this engine produces a healthy 320Nm, suggesting similar numbers for our market.
The Flagship: 195TSI Performance
Crowning the range is the 195TSI, another 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that shows what Volkswagen’s engineers can really do when they push the envelope. With 400Nm of torque on tap, this powerplant promises to deliver the kind of performance that will satisfy even the most demanding drivers.
Technological Innovation: The ‘4Motion’ System
Smart Power Distribution
All-wheel drive variants of the Tayron feature Volkswagen’s latest ‘4Motion’ system, representing a clever approach to power delivery and efficiency. Under normal driving conditions, power is sent exclusively to the front wheels, helping to minimize fuel consumption. However, when additional traction is needed or when the system detects a loss of grip, power is automatically redirected to the rear wheels. For those who prefer more control, drivers can manually activate all-wheel drive when desired.
Dimensions and Design: Size Matters
A Growing Family
The Tayron builds upon the foundations laid by the Tiguan Allspace while pushing the boundaries in terms of size and presence. Here’s how it measures up:
Length: 4792mm (58mm longer than Tiguan Allspace)
Width: 1852mm (13mm wider)
Height: 1660mm (29mm lower)
Wheelbase: 2791mm (virtually identical to Tiguan Allspace)
Premium Interior Appointments
Step inside the Tayron, and you’re greeted by an interior that speaks to Volkswagen’s premium aspirations. Standard equipment includes:
– Soft leatherette trim across multiple surfaces:
– Dashboard panel
– Upper door panels
– Door inserts
– Centre console
– 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
– 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
– Steering column-mounted shifter
Market Positioning and Variants
The Australian Lineup
While Volkswagen Australia hasn’t finalized the specific variant structure for the Tayron, we can look to the new Tiguan’s lineup for clues about what to expect:
– 110TSI Life
– 110TSI Elegance
– 150TSI Elegance
– 150TSI R-Line
– 195TSI R-Line
Seven Seats as Standard
Unlike its predecessor, which offered both five- and seven-seat configurations, the Australian-market Tayron is expected to come exclusively as a seven-seater. This decision reflects the vehicle’s positioning as a proper family hauler in the local market.
Technology and Connectivity
A Digital Revolution
The Tayron’s technology suite represents Volkswagen’s latest advances in digital integration and user interface design. The 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system serves as the command center, offering:
– Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
– Satellite navigation
– Vehicle settings control
– Entertainment functions
The 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster provides customizable information displays, allowing drivers to prioritize the information most relevant to their needs.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Comprehensive Protection
While specific safety features for the Australian market haven’t been confirmed, the Tayron is expected to carry Volkswagen’s latest suite of active and passive safety systems, including:
– Adaptive cruise control
– Lane keeping assist
– Blind spot monitoring
– Autonomous emergency braking
– Rear cross-traffic alert
– Multi-collision brake system
Market Impact and Competition
Positioning in the Premium SUV Segment
The Tayron enters a competitive segment of the market, where it will face off against established players like the Mazda CX-8, Toyota Kluger, and Hyundai Santa Fe. However, its German heritage, sophisticated powertrains, and premium appointments position it as a compelling alternative for buyers seeking European refinement in their family SUV.
Looking to the Future
The Electrification Question
While European markets enjoy access to plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) variants, these powertrains aren’t currently slated for Australian introduction. This decision reflects both market conditions and Volkswagen Australia’s broader strategy regarding electrified vehicles.
A Promising New Chapter
The 2025 Volkswagen Tayron represents a significant step forward for the brand’s SUV lineup in Australia. With its combination of sophisticated powertrains, premium appointments, and practical seven-seat configuration, it promises to build upon the success of the Tiguan Allspace while pushing the envelope in terms of refinement and capability.
Its arrival in late 2025 will mark not just the introduction of a new model, but a reimagining of what Australian families can expect from a European SUV. The shift to German production, combined with the latest technology and refined powertrains, suggests that the Tayron will be a compelling option for buyers in the premium SUV segment.
As we await final specifications and pricing details, one thing is clear: Volkswagen has invested significant resources in ensuring the Tayron meets the high expectations of Australian buyers. Whether it’s the efficient entry-level 110TSI, the versatile 150TSI, or the powerful 195TSI, there’s a Tayron variant to suit a wide range of needs and preferences.
With its arrival less than two years away, the Tayron stands poised to make a significant impact on the Australian automotive landscape, offering a sophisticated blend of practicality, performance, and premium features that should resonate with discerning buyers in the family SUV segment.