Volkswagen Tharu SUV Is for the Chinese Market and could come to Asian and Indian markets and rival Hyundai Creta/ix25
With the introduction of the Skoda Kamiq SUV in the Chinese market, the Volkswagen group is ready to launch a new Compact SUV with a VW badge. This Compact SUV is named as the Volkswagen Tharu and it underpins the Skoda Karoq. The Volkswagen Tharu SUV will be available on sale in the third quarter of 2018 in China. Just like the Skoda Karoq, the Volkswagen Tharu will be manufactured in China itself by the Shanghai-Volkswagen joint venture.
Aesthetically, the Volkswagen Tharu SUV is similar to Tiquan from Volkswagen stable. The headlamp unit is similar to the one which is available on the Volkswagen Atlas. The side profile of the VW Tharu is similar to the Skoda Karoq on which it is based. Moving towards the rear, the tail lamp unit gets squarish elements and it now elongated and rectangular which can be seen on every latest VW car.
The overall look of the Volkswagen Tharu SUV seems like the mini Atlas from Volkswagen’s stable. Speaking about the dimensions, this compact SUV measures 4453 mm in length, 1632 mm in height and the width is 1841mm. In comparison with the Skoda Karoq on which this compact SUV is based, it is 71mm longer and 27mm wider. The wheelbase of the Volkswagen Tharu is 2688mm, which is 50mm more than that of the Skoda Karoq.
Mechanically, there are two engine options for the Volkswagen Tharu SUV. First is the 1,2-litre petrol engine that develops 116 bhp of power and is mated with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. On the other hand, the second engine option is the 1.4 litre turbocharged 150 bhp of power and this mill also is mated to the seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
In the Chinese market, the Volkswagen Tharu SUV will compete head-on with the Hyundai Creta which is known and the Hyundai ix25 in China and the Jeep Compass. Well, for the Indian market, it is unlikely for Volkswagen to get this Compact SUV here. But it is known that the Skoda Karoq in works alongside with a new VW Compact SUV for the Indian market. As of now, there aren’t any details of the products but it can be expected by 2020.
