Volkswagen is broadening the appeal of its large family SUV, the Volkswagen Tayron. After launching petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions, the brand is now introducing a diesel-powered variant — a bold move in 2025, given the steady decline of diesel engines across Europe.
Unveiled to the press in late 2024, the Tayron replaces the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace as the brand’s long-wheelbase SUV. While the name has changed, the recipe remains familiar: a Tiguan “XL” offering five or seven seats, neatly bridging the gap between the Tiguan and the flagship Touareg.
Volkswagen initially released the Tayron with mild-hybrid petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains, but the new TDI diesel version marks a noteworthy — and somewhat controversial — addition to the lineup.
Why Diesel Still Matters for the Tayron
In a market where rivals such as the Renault Espace and Peugeot 5008 have phased out diesel, Volkswagen is bucking the trend. For large, heavy SUVs, petrol engines can quickly become thirsty, particularly when loaded with passengers and luggage. Diesel, with its greater efficiency in long-distance cruising, remains attractive to certain buyers who value lower fuel consumption.
Despite this, diesel sales have collapsed in Europe. In France, for instance, diesel represented just 4% of new car registrations in January 2025, a staggering drop from its dominance a decade ago. Still, Volkswagen is betting that the Tayron TDI will carve out a niche.
Volkswagen Tayron TDI: Specs, Pricing, and Availability
The new Tayron TDI comes equipped with the familiar 2.0-liter TDI engine producing 150 hp, paired exclusively with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. This powertrain will be available across multiple trims, including Life Plus, VW Edition, R-Line, R-Line Exclusive, Elegance, and R-Line Edition.
Pricing starts at €54,100, positioning the Tayron TDI competitively against other large SUVs.
Efficiency and Emissions: Theory vs. Reality
On paper, the difference in emissions between the petrol and diesel Tayron is minimal. The mild-hybrid petrol (eTSI) is rated between 146–157 g/km of CO₂, while the diesel comes in at 144–155 g/km.
However, in real-world driving, especially when carrying five passengers and luggage, the diesel is expected to deliver noticeably better fuel economy than the petrol.
The downside? The Tayron TDI will be subject to a malus (penalty tax) of up to €3,119, based on France’s 2024 tax scale. With a tougher emissions penalty system expected for 2025, buyers could face even higher costs.
Verdict: A Niche but Rational Choice
While launching a diesel SUV in 2025 is risky, the Volkswagen Tayron TDI caters to a specific audience: long-distance drivers seeking efficiency in a large, comfortable, seven-seat family SUV. It may never reach the sales levels of its hybrid siblings, but it strengthens Volkswagen’s strategy of offering powertrain diversity in a rapidly changing market.
In a world racing toward electrification, Volkswagen’s move reminds us that diesel still has a role to play, at least for now.
