Volkswagen has just released a new 7-seat SUV, the VW Tayron. First, let’s explain it, starting with the VW Tiguan, the German manufacturer’s big-selling SUV. The latest model is the third-generation Tiguan, which has been around for about a year. In previous versions, there was also the Tiguan Allspace, essentially a Tiguan but slightly longer with two extra seats, making it a seven-seater. However, there will not be a new Tiguan Allspace; we won’t see that name again.
Instead, the seven-seat gap in VW’s lineup is being filled by the Tayron. VW wants these two models to have different names, not just calling it the Tiguan Allspace because, in its view, the Tayron isn’t just a Tiguan with extra seats. Confusingly, in China, it will be called the Tiguan L Pro, and in America, it will just be called the Tiguan. The version in other markets will be slightly different.
Exterior Design and Differences
In terms of looks, despite VW’s efforts to distinguish the two models, the Tayron and the Tiguan are very similar. There are some differences, though, such as the Tayron featuring an illuminated VW badge at both the front and rear, which comes as standard on all versions, unlike the Tiguan. At the back, this SUV has chunkier styling due to its extra length and larger boot space.
They may not be identical twins, but they are closely related. However, the real difference between the Tiguan and the Tayron is the seating configuration—though not every version of the Tayron comes with seven seats as standard, which is a bit odd given that there’s already a five-seat Tiguan, a five-seat Tayron, and a five-seat Touareg in VW’s lineup.
Interior Space and Middle Row Comfort
The Tayron is bigger than the Tiguan, with a longer wheelbase of 111 mm. Though it’s not a huge difference, it still adds to the interior space, particularly in the middle row, where the legroom is impressive. There’s plenty of space for feet under the seat in front, and both the five-seat and seven-seat versions of the Tayron offer the same amount of space in the middle row. Headroom isn’t as generous, but reclining the backrest or sliding the seats forward can help. The middle seat folds down into a wide, padded armrest with cupholders that swivel to accommodate phones or tablets, a handy feature for passengers.
Third Row and Access
Access to the third row is relatively easy, with a large rear door that opens wide. The space to climb into the back isn’t huge, but it’s not cramped either. By VW’s own admission, the third row is really only for small children, though adults can squeeze in for short journeys. With the middle row fully back, there’s little legroom in the third row, but with it adjusted, an adult can fit, albeit uncomfortably. The third-row space compares to cars like the Skoda Kodiaq, as both vehicles share similarities underneath. While there are no luxuries like extra climate controls or USB ports, the third-row space is fine for occasional use, especially for children.
Boot Space
Even with all seven seats in place, the boot space in the Volkswagen Tayron is still decent, offering 345 litres of storage—more than a Vauxhall Corsa’s entire boot. Folding down the third row increases the storage to a massive 850 litres, significantly more than the Tiguan’s 652 litres, thanks to the Tayron’s extra length. There’s also no loading lip, making it easy to access, with underfloor storage and a spot for the parcel shelf.
The middle row can fold down in a 40/20/40 split, allowing for even more flexibility, and in the entry-level Tayron, the front passenger seat can fold flat for a very long load bay. Higher trim levels don’t have as much flexibility with the seats due to fancier upholstery, but the car remains very practical, especially in the five-seat version, which offers 885 litres of storage. The plug-in hybrid version has only five seats due to the space taken up by the battery.
Interior Features and Technology
Inside, the Volkswagen Tayron’s layout is very similar to the Tiguan’s. It has the same steering wheel with physical controls and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The Elegance trim in the model described includes coloured upholstery, wood finish on the dashboard, and features like massaging seats and acoustic glass to improve refinement. The interior offers lots of practical storage options, including a removable cupholder tray and carpeted door bins.
Engine Options
As for engines, the lineup for Europe offers up to seven choices, but no fully electric version. There are a couple of 2.0L petrol and diesel engines, along with plug-in hybrid options, all paired with automatic DSG gearboxes. VW’s plug-in hybrid technology has proven effective in other models, delivering impressive real-world ranges. The maximum towing capacity for the Tayron is 2.5 tons.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Volkswagen Tayron will be available in three trims: entry-level Life, mid-spec Elegance, and range-topping R-Line. While UK pricing hasn’t been announced yet, the Volkswagen Tayron is expected to sit between the cheaper Tiguan and the more expensive Touareg. It will be on UK roads in March 2025.
