Volkswagen Taigo (2022 on)
!.5Tsi DSG R-Line
Brilliant crossover
Basically, it is a jacked up coupéversion of the VW Polo. Compared to the T-Cross, it looks less boxy and really doesn't look like an SUV - a good thing in my opinion. It's much longer than the T-Cross and actually longer than the T-Roc which helps the coupé effect.
Performance is very quick with a maximum of 132 mph and a 0-60 around 8 secs. DSG box works brilliantly, very quick kickdown and also has steering wheel paddles. Absolutely no hesitation pulling away unlike some earlier VW models. Sport mode livens up the DSG and makes little difference to consumption, which can be well over 50 mpg if driven gently, and around 37 mpg around town. Handling is good with little body roll. Lovely steering, light around town and good feedback when driving quickly.
Interior is typically VW with supportive sports seats with good adjustments to the wheel and seats.
Plenty of headroom, even in the back. Good fabrics. Some basic hard plastic on the doors, but overall OK. Good, customisable digital cockpit and infotainment system. A/C has touch sensitive controls some people prefer knobs, but with climate control I rarely need to make any adjustments. Matrix LED headlights are amazing and rarely appear on similar cars. All the driver assists work well, especially "Travel Assist" which is officially Grade 2 Autonomy. On motorways it really does drive itself.
Boot space is very good, far better than the T-Cross, which only achieves its volume figure when its rear seats are slid forward, leaving no legroom for rear passengers.
Overall, a great addition to the VW T-Range.