Volkswagen Philippines, through AC Industrials, officially launched the all-new Volskwagen Tharu. The Philippine launch of the newest Volkswagen SUV happened on September 29, 2023 which also opened the test drive weekend for the Tharu at the Karrera Cafe in Alabang. The latest addition to the local Volkswagen lineup is set to be the brand’s top SUV offering in the country succeeding the Tiguan.
For comparison, the all-new Tharu is bigger than the subcompact crossover Volkswagen T-Cross. Volkswagen’s latest SUV in the Philippines is 4,458mm in length, 1,841mm wide, and 1,632mm tall.
Known in other markets as the Taos, the Volkswagen Tharu entered the Philippine automotive market in two variants – the 300 TSI DSG SE and the top-of-the-line 300 TSI DSG SEL.
Powering the latest five-seater Volkswagen SUV is a Euro 6 compliant 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine equipped with BlueMotion technology and is rated to output 158 hp and 250 Nm of torque. This mill is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission which sends power to the front wheels.
As for its exterior features, the Tharu’s front fascia is highlighted by its LED headlights which even feature Matrix LED with Dynamic Turn Signal exclusive for the top-spec 300 TSI DSG SEL. The headlights and front grill are integrated in design by a light bar which also serves as a DRL. This full-width light bar design treatment is also found with the rear-end layout of the Tharu.
The rear taillights are combined with the tailgate garnish with a red light bar. The rear also features an illuminating Volkswagen badge. The Tharu rolls on a set of 18-inch alloy wheels with the top variant SEL getting distinctive red accents on its set.
The Volkswagen Tharu is available in color options of Pure White, Mangan Grey, Petroleum Blue (available for SE variant), and Polytech Blue (available for SEL variant). The top spec SEL is further separated from the base model with its exterior black package for the roof, rails, door mirrors, and trims.
Inside, drivers are treated with a full digital instrument display. The base model features an 8-inch active display while the SEL features a 10.25-inch version. The SEL variant features leather-wrapped seats and black interior with white and orange accents. More natural lighting can also be added through its panoramic sunroof.
As for its safety features, the latest Volkswagen SUV comes with Blind Spot Indicators, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Electronic Stability Program, Traction Control System, Parking Sensors, and Reverse Camera. The top spec SEL gets a 360-degree parking camera for tight parking maneuvers as well as an Intelligent Parking Assist System.
For pricing, the all-new Volkswagen Tharu is priced at PHP 1,808,000 for the base model 300 TSI DSG SE and PHP 1,945,000 for the top-of-the-line 300 TSI DSG SEL. The all-new Tharu is now available at all Volkswagen dealers nationwide.
