Volkswagen is set to make a significant impact on the South African passenger car market with the launch of three new models in 2024. The new T-Cross,new Tiguan, new Touareg and the ID.4 were unveiled at a special media event hosted at the Volkswagen manufacturing plant in Kariega.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The new VW Tiguan which was unveiled last year globally has been confirmed as one of the models coming to Mzansi. The design is typically Tiguan but still completely new with a more purposeful front end being on of the distinctive design features.
LED lighting will be standard with the option of the stunning IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights. There will be Life and R Line models.
Interior changes are one of the key points of the new model with more intuitive layout and features. Engine configuration abroad includes 2.0 4-cylinder turbo petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI) which will likely be the models introduced locally. unfortunately due to our low quality (understatement as its crap fuel), the hybrid models will not be coming to Mzansi for now.
Volkswagen Toureg
The VW Toureg might share its underpinnings with the likes of the Porsche Cayenne, Q7 Audi to name a few but it has been on their shadows until now. The revised model aims to make the Toureg stand out as one of the premium SUV models to buy in Mzansi. Also confirmed as coming to Mzansi, the Toureg gets a new front and rear design. At the front, the unit formed by the radiator grille, headlights and the front apron have been given a new look.
The design of the rear end is also sharper: it now has a continuous horizontal LED strip for the taillight clusters and incorporates a Volkswagen logo which is illuminated in red.
The standard equipment of the new Touareg has been enhanced. The standard voice control has also been improved. USB-C connections with a charging capacity of 45 watts (previously 15 watts) permit significantly faster charging of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets or laptops.
In addition, by evaluating customer feedback, the high-quality level of the Touareg interior has been further improved. For example, the centre console trims are now softer than before, providing extra comfort. Engine options were not announced but we are likely to get the 3.0 V6 TDI engine linked to the automatic transmission driving all wheels (4Motion).
Volkswagen T-Cross
The popular VW T Cross which also received a facelift last year, was confirmed for local sale during the 3rd Quarter of 2024. The design brings it in line with the newer Taigo and T-Roc models. Up front there are new designs for the front and rear with new integrated LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED taillight clusters. The IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights will be offered for the first time in a T-Cross.
LED Lighting at rear will widen the appeal of the SUV model with a new bumper design. Expect the R-Line models to get stylish alloys as standard. Life models will also be offered.
The central element in the interior of the new T-Cross is the free-standing infotainment display. The standard touchscreen measures (8 inches) across the diagonal; the top-of-the-range version has a 9.2inch display. In addition, all versions of the four-door five-seater will now be fitted with digital cockpit as standard. VW has retained its trusted TSI engine line up meaning the 1.0 Turbo 3 cylinder engine in either 70kW or 86kW tune. Power will be sent to the front wheels via a DSG Auto transmission and manual options.
Volkswagen ID.4
As part of testing the local market for VW EV’s, VW Mzansi will launch a public testing programme that will allow VW Customers, media, dealers to run VW ID.4 cars. The ID.4 embodies the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility. The battery stores up to 77 kWh of energy (net) and enables ranges of up to 520 km. The electric drive motor, positioned at the rear axle, generates 150 kW – enough to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and deliver a top speed of 160 km/h. ID.4 is also set to be introduced in the first half of 2024 in South Africa as a test fleet.
Volkswagen’s commitment to excellence is evident in the comprehensive lineup of the new T-Cross, new Tiguan, new Touareg, and ID.4. These vehicles represent a convergence of performance, design and innovation, setting new benchmarks in the South African automotive market. The launch of these models reaffirms Volkswagen’s dedication to providing consumers with an array of choices, from versatile and family-friendly SUVs to cutting-edge electric mobility solutions.
