Mane

New Tavendor from Volkswagen as an alternative to Touareg

New Tavendor from Volkswagen as an alternative to Touareg
Shelby
11-08-2025

In the Chinese automobile industry, where competition between crossover manufacturers is becoming increasingly intense, Volkswagen is preparing to launch an updated version of the Tavendor model, which is positioned as an affordable alternative to the flagship Touareg SUV and, according to the developers, should take an intermediate place in the brand's lineup between the Tayron and Talagon models, combining a sufficient level of comfort, functionality and modern design at a more moderate price, which makes it potentially attractive to buyers who want to get a car with a German character and technological solutions, but without having to overpay for the premium segment. Despite the fact that the official premiere is scheduled only for the fall of this year, it was not possible to keep all the details a secret, and the public has access to photographs of the car published on the website of the Ministry of Industry of China, which allow us to examine in detail the external changes and evaluate the work of designers on updating the model.

If we compare the updated Tavendor with the previous version, we can see that the engineers and designers focused on creating a more harmonious and modern appearance, which was expressed in a change in the shape and graphics of the front headlights, which became thinner and more elegant, in reducing the width of the radiator grille, as well as in the redesign of the front bumper, which received new lines and accents that give the car a more dynamic look. The side profile of the crossover remained the same, but in the rear, attention is drawn to the lights with updated graphics and a different bumper design, giving the car a fresher perception. The exhaust pipes are now neatly hidden, which creates a cleaner and more laconic visual impression, and for those who prefer a sporty style, the manufacturer has prepared an R Line package with distinctive features, among which are an aggressive lower air intake with honeycombs, original alloy wheels and a decorative insert in the body color, harmoniously integrated into the rear bumper.

From a technical point of view, the Volkswagen Tavendor is built on the modular MQB Evo platform, which is used in a number of modern models of the concern, providing a high level of unification of components, optimization of production processes and good opportunities for customizing the chassis for different markets. Buyers will have access to versions with a two-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, which, depending on the modification, will be able to develop power from 214 to 270 horsepower, which will allow the car to feel confident both in urban conditions and on country roads. The engine will work in tandem with a seven-speed robotic DSG gearbox, providing fast and smooth shifting, and the all-wheel drive will add confidence on slippery surfaces and when driving on light off-road, which is especially important for family buyers planning an active holiday outside the city.

The appearance of the updated Tavendor on the Chinese market is expected at the end of this year or at the very beginning of next year, and its release can significantly strengthen Volkswagen's position in the segment of affordable, but at the same time quite spacious and well-equipped crossovers. Such a car can attract attention not only due to a balanced combination of price and quality, but also due to a recognizable brand, wide equipment options and a modern appearance that corresponds to the trends of global auto design. Considering that the Celestial Empire market is the largest in the world and forms a significant part of the concern's profit, the success of the model here can become a decisive factor for the further development of the crossover line, as well as for strengthening the trust of buyers who are increasingly choosing practical and versatile cars that can satisfy both everyday needs and requests for comfortable long-distance travel.