A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.2/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.5
Running Costs
4
Practicality
4.6
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a seven-seater SUV that doesn’t compromise on quality or refinement? The volkswagen tayron delivers exactly that, bringing German engineering excellence to the competitive family SUV market. This well-proportioned vehicle manages to feel premium without the eye-watering price tag of some luxury alternatives, making it an appealing choice for growing families.
What sets the Tayron apart is its thoughtful approach to interior space and comfort. The seven-seat configuration actually works in the real world, with reasonable access to the third row and genuinely usable boot space even with all seats occupied. The cabin feels more upmarket than many rivals, with solid build quality and materials that should age well. Multiple engine options cater to different needs, from efficient petrol units for urban driving to torquey diesels for those covering serious mileage.
On the road, the Tayron strikes an impressive balance between comfort and engagement. It’s refined enough for long motorway journeys yet composed through corners when the mood takes you. Running costs remain sensible thanks to strong residual values and reasonable insurance groups. While it may not be the cheapest option in class, the Tayron’s combination of space, quality, and driving refinement creates a compelling package that many families will find hard to resist.
What's the Volkswagen Tayron Like to Drive?
Under the bonnet, the Volkswagen Tayron offers a comprehensive engine lineup. The entry-level 1.5-litre TSI petrol delivers 150bhp, providing adequate performance for daily driving with impressive fuel efficiency.
The range-topping 2.0-litre TSI produces 245bhp, transforming this family SUV into a surprisingly swift performer. The diesel 2.0-litre TDI variants offer 150bhp or 190bhp, perfect for high-mileage drivers seeking efficiency.
All engines pair with smooth DSG automatic transmissions as standard. The higher-powered variants feature 4Motion all-wheel drive, enhancing traction in challenging conditions.
On the road, the Tayron feels composed and refined. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, making it equally at home on motorways and winding country roads.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.5L TSI turbocharged
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Power Output
150 bhp
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0-60 mph
9.8 seconds
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MPG Combined
35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 230 litres
- Safety Rating
- 5 stars Euro NCAP
- Panoramic sunroof, DSG automatic, 4Motion AWD
How Comfortable Is the Volkswagen Tayron?
Step inside the Tayron and you’re greeted by a spacious, well-appointed cabin that seats seven in comfort. The front seats offer excellent support with multiple adjustment options, including lumbar support on higher trims.
The second row slides and reclines, allowing passengers to find their ideal seating position. Access to the third row is straightforward thanks to the sliding middle seats, though the rearmost seats suit children better than adults.
Interior storage is abundant with large door pockets, cup holders throughout, and a generous centre console. The panoramic sunroof available on higher trims adds to the airy cabin feel.
Noise suppression is excellent, with minimal road or wind noise penetrating the cabin at motorway speeds. This makes the Tayron an ideal long-distance cruiser for family holidays.
The tayron excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Volkswagen Tayron?
The Tayron’s running costs are competitive within the seven-seater SUV segment. The entry-level 1.5 TSI achieves around 35mpg in mixed driving, while diesel variants can exceed 45mpg on longer journeys.
Insurance groups range from 18-28 depending on engine and trim level, which is reasonable for a premium SUV. Road tax varies by CO2 emissions, with the most efficient variants qualifying for lower bands.
When considering how to find the cheapest car finance deals in the UK, the Tayron’s strong residual values work in buyers’ favour. Service costs align with other Volkswagen models, with reasonable parts and labour charges.
Extended warranties and service packages are available to help budget for maintenance costs. The three-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind for new buyers.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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volkswagen tayron
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Skoda Kodiaq
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Hyundai Santa Fe
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | from £32,500 | from £30,200 | from £35,400 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.5L TSI 150hp | 1.5L TSI 150hp | 1.6L Hybrid 230hp |
| Power | 150 bhp | 150 bhp | 230 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 9.8 seconds | 9.9 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 35 mpg | 36 mpg | 38 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 230 litres | 270 litres | 571 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Seven seats, Premium interior, DSG automatic, German engineering | Value for money, Spacious interior, Practical design | Hybrid technology, Long warranty, Premium features |
Is the Volkswagen Tayron Practical for Everyday Use?
Practicality is where the Tayron truly excels. Boot space measures 230 litres with all seven seats in use, expanding to 700 litres with the third row folded and 1,755 litres with rows two and three down.
The flexible seating arrangement allows numerous configurations to balance passenger and cargo needs. Loading height is reasonable, though a hands-free tailgate on higher trims adds convenience.
Interior dimensions are generous, with ample head and legroom in the first two rows. The third row suits children or shorter adults for occasional use rather than regular long-distance travel.
Multiple storage solutions throughout the cabin include door bins, seat-back pockets, and underfloor compartments. Cup holders and device storage ensure all passengers have convenient access to their belongings.
**Sarah Thompson from Manchester says:** “We’ve had our Tayron for six months now and it’s been brilliant for our family of five. The third row is perfect for the kids, and the boot still swallows the weekly shop. The ride is so comfortable on long trips to visit grandparents, and the fuel economy is better than expected. Build quality feels solid and the interior is lovely. Only minor complaint is the third row is tight for adults, but that’s expected in this class. Would definitely recommend to other families.”
The Volkswagen Tayron emerges as a well-rounded family SUV that successfully combines German quality with seven-seat practicality. Its premium interior, efficient engines, and comprehensive equipment make it a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV market.
While it commands a slight premium over some rivals, the superior build quality and refinement justify the additional cost. Families seeking space, comfort, and reliability will find much to appreciate in the Tayron’s comprehensive package.