Volkswagen Tayron and Tiguan suddenly sharply cheaper in the Netherlands
Volkswagen Tiguan now from 47,990 euros
Until recently, the Volkswagen Tiguan was available from 49,990 euros, but 2,000 euros have now been taken off that. The entry-level model is now the Trend version with a 1.5 TSI mild-hybrid engine that produces 96 kW (131 hp). You get that one for 47,990 euros. Want a little more luxury and power? Then the Life version with the 150 kW (204 hp) plug-in hybrid powertrain is an interesting choice. That version now costs 49,990 euros – the amount for which you could previously drive only the barest Tiguan.
Volkswagen Tayron: large SUV for just over 52 grand
The larger Volkswagen Tayron has also dropped in price by 2,000 euros. Where you used to spend a minimum of 54,990 euros, you can now drive this seven-seater SUV from 52,490 euros. That is immediately the Life version with plug-in hybrid powertrain – so you don’t have to make any concessions in terms of equipment or efficiency. The Tayron positions itself as the successor to the Tiguan Allspace and, with its longer wheelbase, offers considerably more interior space. Especially for families who need that third row of seats, this is an attractive feature.
More competitive in the marketplace
The price cut comes at an interesting time. The SUV market in the Netherlands is more competitive than ever, with strong competitors like the Skoda Kodiaq, Hyundai Tucson and emerging Chinese brands pricing increasingly aggressively. By offering the Tiguan and Tayron cheaper, Volkswagen is keeping them competitively positioned.
The plug-in hybrid versions are especially relevant to the Dutch market. Business drivers benefit from a more favorable additional tax rate compared to SUVs with only a fuel engine, and with a starting price of 49,990 euros for a plug-in hybrid Tiguan Life, Volkswagen comes close to competitors that, on paper, offer less brand and residual value.
The Tayron as a plug-in hybrid starting at 52,490 euros is also a strong proposition. Compare that to the Skoda Kodiaq, which in similar specifications quickly heads toward the same amounts, but without the extra cachet of the Volkswagen logo.
Why is Volkswagen lowering prices?
Volkswagen has made no secret of it: the brand is under pressure. Competition from China is increasing, the European car market is uncertain and the group has announced large-scale cost-cutting. Price cuts on popular models are a tried-and-true means of maintaining sales figures.
Another factor is that the Tayron is still relatively new and Volkswagen would like to see the model on Dutch roads soon. A lower entry price helps enormously, especially in a segment where buyers are price-conscious and play several brands off against each other.