WHEN it comes to SUVs, Volkswagen have pretty well got all the bases covered – but they’re always room for one more, so here’s the Tayron.
It fits into the range between Tiguan and Touareg, and in effect takes the place of the Tiguan Allspace.
But it’s much more than just a stretched Tiguan that’ll take up a wee bit more than your average parking space at nearly 4.8 metres long. And it’s roominess and practicality make it one to consider if your family is growing (there are seven seats available) or you spend a proportion of your leisure time towing a caravan around the countryside.
With a longer wheelbase there’s an increase in the interior space. It’s spacious and airy, and the second row of seats gives passengers plenty head and leg room as they can slide back and forward and are reclinable. The third row, available in all bar the PHEV, is ok for short adults on short trips, and fine for kids.
Fold that row down though and there’s 850 litres of space available for luggage, camping equipment, whatever you choose to load in.
Move back up front and you’ll immediately notice how supportive the front seats are. They keep you well located and on the R-Line version here there was plenty of adjustment to end up with the ideal driving position.
Every variant gets a 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9 inch central touchscreen which is easier to use than on previous VW offerings.
There’s an upgrade available to a 15 inch screen which also includes a head-up display.
Take the car out at night and it’s like being in a mobile disco, with ambient lighting visible in the usual places as well as on the dash and door trim panels.
There’s a wide choice of engines available, from petrol and mild hybrids to PHEVs and diesels.
Sampled here is VW’s groups widely used 1.5 litre petrol engine with its 48v mild hybrid system. Basically the same unit as in my Skoda Karoq, but, four years on, one which now uses a 8v lithium-ion battery and 48v belt starter motor instead of an alternator and starter motor for increased efficiency.
There’s good low down torque so even with a kerb weight of 1723kgs, the engine here does well to get the Tayron up to speed efficiently and the fuel return of 42.9 mpg is surprisingly easy to attain on a run. It has a composed feel when cornering and the steering is confidence-boosting with good feel.
And if you want a car that stands out in the dark, this is the kiddy. Its distinctive LED headlights are backed up by illuminated VW badges, 3D tail lights and a full length LED crossbar at the rear. Very distinctive.
Volkswagen Tayron R-Line
Price: £41,655 (£47,755 as tested)
Engine: 1.5 litre, four cylinder, petrol, mild hybrid
Power: 148bhp
Torque: 184lb/ft
Transmission: 7 speed DSG
Top speed: 127mph
0-62mph: 9.4 seconds
Economy: 42.9mpg
CO2 emissions: 150g/km
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