Electric Cars

Volkswagen's Tayron, a vehicle with a striking resemblance to the Tiguan, which will soon feature three rows in the US market, offers an early look at what consumers can anticipate. Having spent a week navigating various conditions in a vibrant Ulta Violet Metallic Tayron, it became clear that this vehicle has much to offer American families.

The Tayron's powertrain, though featuring a 1.5-liter eTSI unit (not for the US market) with 148 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, delivered surprising performance for a three-row SUV, thanks to its 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup ensures smooth starts and consistent torque delivery, making urban driving effortless and merges seamless. The forthcoming US three-row Tiguan will likely be powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine offering 201 hp, providing ample confidence for daily family demands. Additionally, the infotainment system has seen significant improvements, now boasting a responsive 12.9-inch Discover Navigation screen (with a 15-inch option) and a highly configurable 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. Integrated voice control, enhanced with ChatGPT, smoothly handles navigation and music requests. The thoughtful phone storage and charging solution further enhance user convenience, alongside wireless App-Connect, multiple USB-C ports, and an eight-speaker audio system.

In terms of interior space, the Tayron measures 188.7 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, and 65.7 inches tall, dimensions that translate into practical family accommodations. The second row provides realistic three-across seating with ample height, while the third row is suitable for children or adults on shorter journeys, with easy access via the sliding bench. Cargo capacity is impressive, offering 12.2 cubic feet with all three rows in use, expanding to 30.0 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a substantial 67.3 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The driving experience is characterized by ease and control, with excellent visibility and supportive driver assistance features for parking and highway travel. The cabin’s quality and comfort are notable, featuring premium materials like open-pore wood and ArtVelours upholstery, multi-color ambient lighting, and ergonomically designed sports comfort seats with heating and massage functions. Comprehensive safety technologies, including Front Assist, Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, and a full suite of airbags, further enhance the vehicle's appeal to families.

The Tayron, serving as a precursor to the US three-row Tiguan, truly embodies a polished and practical solution for families seeking a versatile daily driver. While the US pricing is expected to align with its segment competitors, potentially reaching $45-50k with added features, its superior cabin quality and advanced technology make it a strong contender. For those prioritizing space, sophisticated technology, and robust safety features in a family SUV, the upcoming three-row Tiguan offers a compelling choice, urging buyers to consider their options carefully to balance features with affordability.

Celebrating a quarter-century since its debut, the Audi A2 remains a testament to forward-thinking automotive design. When it first arrived in the market in late 1999, this vehicle was an engineering marvel, pushing the boundaries of what a small car could be. Audi’s ambition was clear: to infuse lightweight construction, unparalleled efficiency, and premium craftsmanship into a compact segment often associated with basic utility. Its all-aluminum monocoque chassis, known as the Audi Space Frame (ASF), significantly reduced the car’s weight, contributing to its remarkable agility and fuel economy. The 1.2 TDI “3L” variant, in particular, was groundbreaking, achieving an astonishing fuel consumption of just three liters per 100 kilometers – a feat that predated widespread concerns about fuel efficiency, emissions, and electrification.

Despite its innovative spirit and advanced features, the A2 faced considerable challenges in the marketplace. The high costs associated with aluminum production meant the A2 carried a price tag comparable to larger, more luxurious sedans, rather than its direct competitors. Consumers were hesitant to invest premium sums in a small hatchback, leading to modest sales figures of approximately 176,000 units before production ceased in 2005. Nevertheless, the passage of time has transformed the A2 into a revered cult classic. Its ingenious engineering, efficient packaging, and distinctive design, especially the vibrant “colour.storm” editions in hues like Imola Yellow and Misano Red, continue to captivate enthusiasts.

Today, the pioneering vision embodied by the Audi A2 resonates deeply within the automotive industry. Its core principles — lightweight design, aerodynamic efficiency, and a technological focus in compact forms — are now cornerstones of modern electric vehicle development. While contemporary Audi models utilize battery packs in place of aluminum for weight reduction, the underlying drive to innovate and excel in the small car category persists. As Audi reflects on the A2’s 25-year legacy, it serves as a powerful reminder that some innovations are simply ahead of their time, paving the way for future advancements. The A2 was not just a car; it was a prophetic statement about the future of mobility, a future that is now unfolding before our eyes.