The SAIC-VW joint enterprise in China has released the first photos of its next production SUV for the local market – the Tharu XR. Unlike the “normal” Tharu model already on sale in the country, the XR is compact-sized, simpler-built and more affordable with a rumored starting price of 130,000 Yuan.
The MQB-A0 platform the newcomer is based on makes it a distant relative of the VW Taigun and Skoda Kushaq for India. It even looks similar to them on the outside, although Volkswagen took care to make it resemble the larger and more expensive Tiguan L Pro for China. The contrasting front bumper trim and the headlights in particular make it look more upscale than it really is, and you can further the illusion by opting for black décor all around instead of chrome.
The body dimensions are stated as 4,355 x 1,762 x 1,605 mm with 2,651 mm of wheelbase – same as the VW Taigun. In the SAIC-VW product range, the new Tharu XR will slot in between the smaller T-Cross and the regular Tharu.
For the powertrain, you can choose between a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine rated at 110 PS (108 hp / 81 kW) and its turbocharged version capable of 160 PS (158 hp / 118 kW). The company will likely offer manual, automatic and dual-clutch transmission options, but no all-wheel drive.
The production is slated to begin later this summer. The Tharu XR is expected to be priced just a touch above the T-Cross, which currently starts from 115,900 Yuan.
