VOLKSWAGEN Philippines recently brought in the latest addition to its Crossover SUV lineup – the All-New Tharu. Positioned above the smaller T-Cross, the newest model in the local roster is picking up what the Tiguan has left off.
The German automaker’s Philippine distributor claims that the Tharu signals Volkswagen’s bold foray into the future of Philippine mobility, as the SUV embraces the signature Volkswagen look while deftly intertwining the latest in convenience, safety, and connectivity.
Upfront is that familiar Volkswagen modern design signature with the aligned and seemingly unified headlamps and grille. But to add distinctions, the grille has a honeycomb pattern. In contrast, the Matrix LED headlights with IQ-Lights all around have integrated daylight running lights aligned to the same from the grille, forming a straight illuminated line. The front bumper’s lower portion resembles the T-Cross pattern but has unique side air vents. The rear end, meantime, received the same treatment in terms of illumination and bumper air vents, while the flanks have the usual horizontal sharp line. Matte black body claddings with skid plates bring out the SUV design element to complement the 18-inch alloys. The tailgate features a “Virtual Pedal Tailgate” with a kick-sensing system to open.
Interior-wise, the Tharu, like the T-Cross, breaks from the brand’s monochromatic motif, particularly the top-spec Pure White version exuding multi-lighter tones with a catchy orange accent. Regarding tech, there is a fully digital instrument cluster with an Active Info Display. Highlighted in the center is the 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system (eight-inch for the SE variant) with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity functions and USB support. Moreover, the system has a gesture control function. Front seats are also power-adjusted (drivers only on the SE variant). Other features are USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad (SEL variant) with more USB ports for rear passengers.
Motivation comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine dishing out 157 hp and a hefty 250 N-m maximum torque starting at 1,750 rpm. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SEL variant has different drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom). Other features include cabin ambient lighting, automatic climate control (dual-zone), reverse camera, tire pressure monitoring system, electronic parking brake with auto hold, and Active Park Assist function.
The All-New Volkswagen Tharu comes in a host of unique body colors: Pure White, Mangan Grey, Petroleum Blue (available for the SE variant), and Polytech Blue (available for the SEL variant), with the SEL having the exterior black package for the roof, rails, door mirrors and trims. The 300 TSI DSG SE variant retails at P1.808 million, while the top-of-the-line 300 TSI DSG SEL is at P1.945 million.
The Tharu offers warranty coverage of 100,000 km or three years—whichever comes first—and minimal periodic maintenance service (PMS) of once every 10,000 km or one year (whichever comes first). Tharu ownership perks include free 24/7 Emergency Roadside Assistance (ERA) and only technicians mentored by globally certified trainers and backed by on-site and virtual diagnostic technical support. All photos by Randy S. Peregrino
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino