LAOIS MOTORING: Where does the new VW Taigo fit into the SUV market?

Can the SUV market get any more crowded?

SUV’s whether small as in the VW Polo based T-Cross, medium or large are outselling the traditional three box saloon and family hatchback. People just seem to love the extra height they have and their much vaunted practicality when in fact they are no more practical than a hatchback as most are two wheel drive and not capable of any off-road work.

Nevertheless VW has decided we need another one and it is called the Taigo. Now VW already have a Polo based SUV called the T-Cross but the Taigo while also based on Polo running gear and platform is a bit more shapely with a sweeping coupe like roofline. So what it gives away in practicality it gains in style.

Has it any street cred?

Despite its compact dimensions the Taigo looks very well proportioned. Frankly its no head turner but in the traditional VW way it will not offend anyone either.

What’s it like inside?

Initial impressions are that the all black cabin is a bit dark and the hard plastic door panels do not give an impression of luxury or quality.

However look past that and here is a well built nicely designed cabin. Its perfectly laid out with digital instrumentation which you can set to look like traditional dials, something I like and the central touchscreen functions very well with easy to use menu’s.

In typical VW fashion it all feels very well bolted together. Standard spec on the R-Line tested is very good and highlights include, 18” alloys, ambient lighting,Voice Control, rear camera, heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, 8’touchscreen Media system, leather multifunction steering wheel, I could go on. You get the idea.

The cabin will seat four, its cosy in the back for adults but adequate despite the sloping roofline. The boot, accessed through the large tailgate is pretty good and there is a space saver tyre, a necessity in Ireland.

Under the bonnet?

In this case a perky 3 cylinder 1.0 litre TSI 110 bhp petrol turbo mated here to the rather good 7-speed DSG auto gearbox with paddle shifts should you prefer a bit more driver involvement.

Performance is quite good and apart from when fully laden (where you do feel the need for a bit more mid range punch for overtaking) it will satisfy 95% of your performance needs. Fuel economy was good too burning on average 5.9 litres per 100km. Road tax is €210.00 for the year.

Will I enjoy driving it?

In a word yes. It goes well, sounds good and handles well too whether on wet or dry roads. The ride comfort is just right and noise levels are well suppressed.

The new Taigo is a very pleasant place to be and from behind the steering wheel it does not feel as small as its Polo underpinnings would suggest.

So what is the verdict?

Prices for the VW Taigo kick off at €28,995 for the “Life” model with the R-line €44,100. I really liked the Taigo but I can’t quite see where it fits in the VW line up. Nevertheless maybe it will suit a young couple or those wishing to trade down to something that has plenty of quality and kit.

It's a bit small for a family with kids though (try the larger VW T-Roc). Overall then the new Taigo gets my recommendation. Its stylish, feels good around you, proves pleasant to drive