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The Redesigned Local T-Cross Gets a New Name and 1.5 TSI Engine, with Sales Expected This Year!
The Volkswagen T-Cross, which has been successful in China since its launch in 2019, has just received a significant update for the 2025 line. With a deep facelift and a new name, the model is now called Tharu XR. The change aims to strengthen the connection with the Tharu, the Chinese equivalent of the Taos, also produced by the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture, according to motor1.
Significant Visual Changes
The images released by the Ministry of Industry of China show that the Tharu XR received a more robust facelift compared to the recent update of the T-Cross in Brazil. The front end has been completely redesigned, featuring new headlights, grille, bumper, and hood, inspired by recent launches like the Tiguan L Pro. The rear has also been revamped, with narrower and interconnected taillights, redesigned internal lighting, and a new light signature. The bumper and the trunk lid have also been modified, while the sides retain the wheel design from the previous model. Now, the length of the Tharu XR is 4,351 mm, an increase of 133 mm compared to its predecessor, while the wheelbase remains the same at 2,651 mm.
Renewed Performance
Under the hood, the Tharu XR continues to offer the 1.5 gasoline engine, available in naturally aspirated and turbo TSI versions, with outputs of 110 hp and 150 hp, respectively. In the turbo version, the car delivers torque of 28.8 kgfm. The transmission, in turn, is always a 6-speed automatic, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. With these specifications, the Tharu XR is ready to offer an enjoyable and dynamic driving experience.
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Marketing and Naming Strategy
The name change to Tharu XR is part of a marketing strategy to align the model with the Tharu, the “big brother” in the SUV lineup of Volkswagen in China. This strategy aims to capitalize on the success of the Tharu, reinforcing the brand identity and creating a stronger connection between the models. “Nothing like having a name that resonates well with the audience, right?” jokes a Volkswagen representative.
Expectations and Availability of Volkswagen
The expectation is that the Tharu XR will start being sold this year in China, offering local consumers a renewed compact SUV with a more attractive proposal. With increasing competition in the SUV market in China, Volkswagen bets on the Tharu XR as a competitive and well-positioned option to meet the demands of Chinese consumers for modern and efficient vehicles.
Therefore, the Volkswagen Tharu XR arrives in the Chinese market with a series of significant updates, both in design and performance, promising to secure a prominent place among compact SUVs. Stay tuned, as this new launch from Volkswagen promises to shake up the Chinese automotive market this year.
This version of the Tharu XR represents another step for Volkswagen to consolidate its presence in the Chinese SUV market. The launch not only renews the model with a more modern design, but also reinforces the brand’s strategy to offer vehicles that meet consumer expectations.
Só de ter cambio automatico de 6 marchas já ganhou uns pontos
Cambio CVT não presta, e muito delicado, todo o torque é peso do carro cai em cima de uma pequena correia, que não suporta traços, e se quebrar e uma fortuna para consertar
A questão é que esse é o modelo para China porquê quando vem para o Brasil 50% dessas opções não vem para o Brasil, sabemos como funciona aqui infelizmente o que muda será o preço porque vai vender muito, mas, na China para o Brasil vai chegar com preço igual ao TAOS.
Vc sabe quantas vezes o mercado chinês de veículos é maior que o Brasil? Então há mercado para mais modelos.
Câmbio CVT, não quebra de jeito nenhum.