Volkswagen has introduced the all-new Volkswagen Tayron in Australia, replacing the Tiguan Allspace with a larger, more distinct SUV that offers both five-seat and seven-seat configurations across a four-grade range. Priced from below $50,000 for the entry model, the Tayron combines familiar Volkswagen packaging with new exterior styling, upgraded cabin technology and a choice of turbo-petrol powertrains, including a high-output R-Line variant.
Key facts – what buyers need to know
- Model launched: Volkswagen Tayron (replaces Tiguan Allspace in Australia)
- Grades available (Australia): 110 TSI Life, 150 TSI Life (5-seat), 150 TSI Elegance (7-seat), 195 TSI R-Line (7-seat)
- Price: entry-level below $50,000 (110 TSI Life), higher grades carry premium pricing.
- Seating: selectable five or seven seats depending on grade.
- Safety: Euro NCAP five-star rating (Australian ANCAP testing pending).
- Warranty: 5-year unlimited-km manufacturer warranty.
- Fuel: all petrol engines require 95 RON premium unleaded.
Volkswagen Tayron powertrains and performance
Volkswagen offers a turbo-petrol only line-up for Australian Volkswagen Tayron models, no hybrid variants are currently offered.
- 110 TSI Life (entry): 1.4-litre turbo (front-wheel drive), 110 kW and 250 Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch (DSG) gearbox. Lower towing capacity than AWD models.
- 150 TSI (Life & Elegance): 2.0-litre turbo, 150 kW and 320 Nm, all-wheel drive and 7-speed DSG. The 150 TSI Life is the lone five-seat model in the range and delivers a generous boot; 150 TSI Elegance returns to seven-seat packaging.
- 195 TSI R-Line (range-topper): 2.0-litre turbo, 195 kW and 400 Nm, standard AWD, 7-speed DSG. R-Line adds sportier chassis tuning, progressive steering, and performance-oriented styling.
Fuel-consumption differences are modest between the 150 TSI and the 110 TSI with the AWD 150 only marginally thirstier on the combined cycle; the 195 TSI posts the highest official consumption figures.
Volkswagen Tayron Equipment, tech and interior highlights
The Volkswagen Tayron brings sizeable cabin tech even to base models and offers upgraded luxury at higher grades:
- Infotainment: 12.9-inch touchscreen standard on lower grades; 15-inch touchscreen on higher grades (Elegance and R-Line). Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
- Driver display: configurable digital instrument cluster across the range.
- Convenience: electric tailgate, keyless entry, wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C ports and a well-considered centre storage layout.
- Comfort (Elegance): leather-appointed upholstery, ErgoActive front seats with power adjustment, memory, massage, heating and ventilation.
- R-Line extras: 20-inch wheels, R-Line exterior and interior styling, head-up display, and a Harman Kardon audio system.
- ADAS & parking: surround-view camera and semi-autonomous park assist are standard on entry grade; advanced driving assists including adaptive cruise with lane-keeping, speed sign recognition, and driver monitoring are fitted across the range.
Review notes indicate the Tayron’s infotainment performs well overall but wireless smartphone connections can drop briefly at toll gantries.
Packaging, cargo and third row usability
- Cargo capacity: with the Volkswagen Tayron configured as a five-seater, cargo volume exceeds 800 litres. With the third row deployed in seven-seat mode, usable cargo is around 300+ litres (suitable for school bags or light luggage).
- Third row: access is via tilt-and-slide second-row seats. The third row is compact, headroom and legroom are tight for tall adults (6 ft/≈183 cm is likely uncomfortable for long trips). Third-row occupancy lacks dedicated air vents and does not receive ISOFIX anchor points, positioning it primarily for occasional use.
- Practical touches: storage cubbies, shopping bag hooks, spare-wheel space saver and remote seat release points.
Safety and driver aids
The Volkswagen Tayron achieves a five-star Euro NCAP rating and is equipped with a comprehensive active safety suite:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (pedestrian, cyclist and intersection assistance)
- Adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping (stop-start steer capability)
- Blind-spot monitoring, front and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking
- Surround-view camera and parking sensors (standard across range)
- Driver monitoring that intervenes appropriately rather than over-alerting drivers
Note: while standard airbag provision is broad (dual front, front side, front centre and rear side airbags), the Tayron’s third row does not have dedicated airbags.
Ride, handling and on-road impressions
Test feedback identifies the Volkswagen Tayron as a composed, confident large family SUV:
- Steering is described as predictably weighted and confidence-inspiring at speed.
- Ride quality benefits from an available dynamic chassis control (adaptive dampers) on higher grades, allowing drivers to tailor firmness.
- The AWD 2.0-litre 150 kW model is recommended as the balance point for most buyers, it combines strong real-world performance with only a marginal fuel-penalty versus the entry 1.4-litre.
- The 195 kW R-Line delivers the sharpest performance and more engaging driving dynamics, at the cost of higher consumption.
- DSG gearbox behaviour has improved versus older units but retains occasional hesitation typical of dual-clutch systems in certain low-speed scenarios. Tyre-noise is noticeable in some conditions.
Running costs, ownership and servicing
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited kilometres.
- Service options: Volkswagen offers capped-price servicing plans and multi-year packages. A 5-year pre-paid service plan can provide notable savings versus pay-as-you-go servicing, while the AWD variants attract slightly higher running costs. Roadside assistance is included for 12 months if not covered by dealer servicing.
- Towing: towing capacity improves with AWD models but down-ball weight is limited to 200 kg, so the Tayron is not intended as a heavy towing workhorse.
Market context and alternatives
The Tayron competes in a crowded large SUV segment where hybrid powertrains and broader value propositions influence buyer choice. Recommended alternatives include:
- Hyundai Santa Fe: available with turbo petrol and petrol-electric hybrid powertrains, praised for interior space and real-world fuel efficiency.
- Skoda Kodiaq: European rival with standard AWD on some grades, generous warranty and competitive pricing (from about $56,000 drive-away in the market referenced).
- Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid (plug-in): offers an ~90 km EV range and strong value starting near $46,000, appealing to buyers prioritising efficiency and features for the price.
Buyers seeking hybrid or plug-in options should note the Tayron’s current petrol-only line-up.
Verdict: who should consider the Volkswagen Tayron?
The Volkswagen Tayron is a convincing replacement for the Tiguan Allspace: larger, more distinct in design, and better equipped across the range. It will appeal to buyers who prioritise:
- A European driving feel with predictable handling and a well-weighted steering setup.
- Flexible seating options (five- or seven-seat layouts) and strong standard tech such as surround-view cameras and sizable touchscreens.
- A high level of active safety equipment and a manufacturer 5-year unlimited-km warranty.
However, the Tayron’s third row is best suited to occasional use and the lack of hybrid powertrains may deter efficiency-minded customers. For many Australian buyers, the 150 TSI Elegance represents the practical middle ground, while the 195 TSI R-Line will satisfy those wanting a sportier experience and extra kit.
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