
Tharu is an SUV model launched by SAIC Volkswagen on October 31, 2018, inheriting the design language of the Tiguan Mountain Rock. The Chinese name for Tharu is Tiguan Yue, and like the Tiguan, it is built on the MQB platform. It is equipped with 1.4T and 2.0T engines. The Tharu features sharp exterior lines, with a compact body paired with large-sized tires, giving it a powerful appearance. Below are the details about the Volkswagen Tiguan Yue: 1. Exterior: The exterior adopts the Rock-Cutting design concept, with raised lines on the ridge-like hood enhancing the sense of strength. The wide-body dual U-shaped full LED headlights tilt upwards, and the grille strips extend to the headlights. 2. Interior: The interior features a horizontal design, using IMD material panels to elevate the grade. Large panels integrate the instrument cluster, display screen, and air vents into a unified design. 3. Space: The dimensions are 4453/1841/1632mm (length/width/height), with a wheelbase of 2680mm and an unladen ground clearance of 182mm. The seating space height for front and rear passengers is 1013mm and 975mm, respectively. The standard trunk volume is 455 liters, and the rear seats can be folded in a 4/6 split, expanding the total space to 1543 liters when fully folded down. The vehicle offers up to 33 storage spaces.

The Volkswagen Tharu is a compact SUV launched by SAIC Volkswagen in the Chinese market, and I think its design is quite practical. Based on Volkswagen's MQB platform, it offers two engine options: 1.4T and 2.0T, with quick power response and a lively driving experience. The interior space is well-arranged, with enough room for three adults in the rear seats, and a large trunk capacity that easily fits travel luggage. In terms of technical details, features like automatic parking and adaptive cruise control are thoughtful, though urban driving fuel consumption is slightly high. Since its launch in 2018, it has filled the gap in Volkswagen's entry-level SUV lineup, offering good value for money. I often recommend it to friends, but don't expect a luxury experience—after all, it's positioned below the Tiguan, making it suitable for young people or small families for daily commuting. It also aligns with the current China VI emission standards, reflecting the trend toward environmental protection.

I've been driving the Tharu for over three years, and the driving experience has been quite smooth. The car is stable at high speeds, with minimal engine noise. In terms of space, the front seats are comfortable and don't cause back fatigue on long drives, though the rear seats are a bit compact, and taller passengers might find headroom slightly limited. The trunk can handle large items, making it sufficient for weekend shopping or camping trips. As for drawbacks, the suspension is on the stiffer side, resulting in a noticeable bumpiness over speed bumps. However, the German build quality is reliable, and I've hardly needed any repairs. Fuel consumption in the city averages 8-9 liters per 100 km, which is reasonable, making it a practical and worry-free choice. This SUV has been optimized for Chinese families, with a starting price of 150,000 RMB. I opted for the 1.4T version, which offers good value for daily commuting. It's also worth mentioning its strong sales performance in the domestic market, which could attract more searchers looking for genuine feedback.

The Tharu boasts a youthful and stylish exterior. I love its streamlined design and LED headlights, which give it a strong sporty vibe, with color options like vibrant blue or classic silver. The driver's cabin is minimalist, featuring a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system that's effortless for young drivers. The space isn't cramped, though the rear legroom is slightly limited, but it comfortably accommodates four people for weekend getaways. The 1.4T engine delivers quick acceleration and fuel efficiency, making it a breeze to drive in the city. With an affordable price tag, it may not match the interior refinement of rivals like the Honda CR-V, but its German heritage adds value. I often discuss its trendy design with friends—it's definitely worth a test drive.

From a safety perspective, the Tharu is well-equipped. The ACC adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring work effectively, while the high-speed collision warning is a great help. The body has strong rigidity, with stable crash test results and multiple airbag layouts, ensuring peace of mind for family trips. The space is practical, and the seat materials are wear-resistant, so spills from kids are no worry. Fuel consumption is average, and I recommend it to families who prioritize safety details, helping to reduce nighttime driving risks. Aligning with the commonly mentioned driving assistance trends in the domestic market, this car has precise positioning—there’s room for improvement, but its core reliability is solid.


