The 2023 Ford Ranger has been spotted in the wild as it prepares an all-new model that will be paired with the next-generation Volkswagen Amarok.
Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien. We have paid for these photos and at the photographer’s request, have watermarked them.
While the body is covered from head to toe in black vinyl, it actually gives a somewhat better perspective of the size and design than the previous camouflaged versions we spied months back.
What we now see on the 2023 Ford Ranger is a squarer more wide-body style bakkie that’s more chiselled than the current, rounded Ranger that’s on sale at the moment. More detail is shown as the vinyl cover clings to the front fascia of the Ranger showing some headlight and grille interplay as well as the basic front bumper design. It still looks like the Ranger’s sturdier design will take cues from the latest Ford F150, the world’s best-selling pick-up truck.
Ranger with Fox dampers
Interestingly, this covered 2023 Ranger was out testing with a Ranger Tremor, which is a US-only version of the Ranger that is half Ranger, half Raptor – it features 2-inch Fox dampers on each corner and a 20mm raise in ground clearance. The Vinyl covering hides the suspension componentry so it’s difficult to tell, but does suggest that Ford is back-to-back testing new dampers for the 2023 Ford Ranger.
There are exposed mounting points on the rear of the Ranger suggest that this could be a Wildtrak version as these points normally mount the black sports or rollover bar seen on the Wildtrak version.
The 2023 Ford Ranger will be built in South Africa at Ford’s Silverton plant in Tshwane. The ranger will also be built alongside the next-generation Volkswagen Amarok as the two brands globally join forces on bakkies and commercial vehicles in order to cut costs.
What will power the all-new Ranger is still to be revealed but considering Ford’s 2-litre bi-turbodiesel engine is still relatively new, (it was introduced in 2019) it will likely continue for at least the next 5 years before being replaced. That doesn’t mean we won’t see it being improved to produce more power and torque upon the new Ranger’s official release. There is still a slight chance that the American spec Ranger engine (2.3L Ecoboost turbopetrol) could make an appearance as well, but in all likelihood that engine will be used for American spec Rangers only.
Mercedes-Benz EQT Concept Previews Production T-Class
Mercedes-Benz is preparing to launch its production version T-Class small van but to whet our appetites and give us a little taste of what's to come, check out the EQT Concept.
Mercedes-Benz continues to offer a model for every conceivable segment and while this concept is tagged as an 'EQ' model, there will be conventional petrol and diesel engines for the standard production Mercedes-Benz T-Class.
The Mercedes-Benz T-Class is the replacement for the Citan, but interestingly the Citan name will stay on as a commercial offering. Think of the Mercedes-Benz T-Class as a rival to the Volkswagen Caddy. The upcoming Mercedes-Benz T-Class will be co-developed alongside the Renault Kangoo, a popular model for both passengers and cargo in the European market.
The Mercedes-Benz EQT Concept confirms the Stuttgart-based manufacturer will be investing in electrification across its portfolio. If the EQT gains the same electric powertrain from the Renault Kangoo E-Tech, then expect a range of around 265 km. The internal combustion engines will also make an appearance for the standard T-Class and these are expected in the form of Renault's 1.3-litre turbopetrol and 1.5-litre turbodiesels.
While final specifications aren't yet available, we can see two sliding doors that appear to offer an aperature big enough to allow passengers access into the third row of seats – no need to fold or slide the second row.
Further details and a production reveal are scheduled for later this year.
Pre-orders for the all-electric Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge commences today with first deliveries expected in August 2021.
Volvo recently reported a global sales increase of 40.8% in Q1 2021 and the XC40 Recharge accounted for 26% of all Volvos sold worldwide in March 2021.
Buyers who are keen to get into the all-electric XC40 P8 Recharge can now place an order via Volvo’s new My Volvo website, which makes purchasing a Volvo quick and simple without having to leave your home.
“All-electric vehicles sold in South Africa have traditionally come with hefty price tags – and this has undoubtedly been a deterrent. We know that there is an appetite in South Africa for electric cars and we were determined to give customers an attractive price,” says Managing Director at Volvo Car South Africa, Greg Maruszewski.
The XC40 Recharge is the Swedish brand’s first all-electric vehicle and the XC40 P8 Recharge is powered by 2 electric motors producing 304 kW and 660 Nm of torque. Acceleration from zero to 100 kph takes just 4.9 seconds with an electric range of 418 km.
The XC40 P8 Recharge also comes with a Volvo CARE package which includes a 5-year warranty and maintenance plan, 3-years insurance, a home charger with charge cables and access to a petrol car for 2 weeks per year for 3 years.
“The Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge all-electric is clearly a sign of things to come; last month the company announced that it would only manufacture electric cars by 2030, with all sales to be online. So, our future is clear, and it will be fully electric, sustainable, and online,” concludes Maruszewski.
How much does the Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge Cost in South Africa?
The rumour mill keeps grinding away, regarding Ford’s next-generation Raptor.
Sources close to FordAuthority, have allegedly confirmed the configuration for Ford's Ranger Raptor 2.0 – and no, it won’t have a four-cylinder engine, anymore.
The new Ranger Raptor will be rolling a 3-litre EcoBoost V6, combusting petrol. This engine architecture does duty in the current Explorer ST.
Ford’s most potent tune of the 3-litre EcoBoost V6 makes some very impressive numbers, especially for a bakkie. If product planners at the American brand decided to use the 3-litre EcoBoost V6 without any upgrades, it should boost 298 kW and 563 Nm of torque.
Power nearly doubles over the current 2-litre bi-turbodiesel’s 157 kW, whilst the torque gain is less impressive, at 12%.
The most significant improvement in Range Raptor’s driveability should be its acceleration and overtaking performance at highway speeds – both of which, are less than impressive, with the current diesel Raptor.
With so much power, the new Ranger Raptor V6 will also make for an excellent dune driving vehicle, although its fuel consumption will probably border on the ridiculous side of thirsty.
In the American and Australian markets, where owners have the purchasing power to feel indifference toward fuel prices, the idea of a Ranger Raptor V6 makes sense. South African bakkie buyers are inherently biased towards diesel, and that could be an issue for the new Ranger Raptor to overcome.
There is no question that any buyer who can afford a Ranger Raptor, will not be bothered by their fuel expense increasing with the switch from diesel to petrol. But to some, a reduction in range could be an issue, when planning that adventurous off-road expedition. Expect a range extending tank to be an option, either from Ford or on the aftermarket.
This week’s news you need to know (May 2021, week 1)
In this week's motoring news you need to know: Honda could be targeting the Toyota Fortuner (or just replacing the BR-V), Nissan South Africa builds a better Navara, the Subaru Outback is likely going to be the best car you'll never buy and Ferrari continues the hold the flame aloft for the mighty V12.
Honda N7X – your uber has arrived
Is the N7X concept merely a precursor to a vehicle that will be popular with Uber XL operators… or is there more to it? Honda will have to provide more, um, clarity and purpose if it wants to step out of the shadow, sharpen up that katana, down the saki and take the fight to its fellow Japanese brand Toyota and its omnipotent Fortuner, which is as much of a household brand as Sunlight Liquid and Q20.
Honda’s latest would-be offering in the people-carrying sector looks like a bit of a non-event so far, but bear in mind the newcomer is but in the introductory phase at this point – anything can happen in between now and when the model actually goes into production. Let’s hope that it will emerge as a legitimate Fortuner rival which will help to keep Toyota's mainstay honest. If there aren’t any distinguishing factors between the N7X and the current, Uber-spec BR-V, another disappointment is on the cards. It’s about time that Honda steps things up, though. It'd be the honourable thing to do.
Nissan Navara – Time to shine
Stop me if I've said this before, but the standards of the South African leisure bakkie market have evolved a lot through the years. Toyota, Ford and, to a lesser extent, Isuzu have led that charge in (what can only be) a frantic bid to please the market at all costs. More luxury, more premium features, more of the stuff a premium sedan has… but in a bakkie. It sounds a bit silly to say it, but we've made a monster.
One manufacturer that has, however, been a little slow on the uptake is Nissan, which hasn't developed its Navara with the same kind of urgency or intensity that Toyota and Ford have devoted to their hyper-evolved Hilux and Ranger respectively. However, that could all be changing – if we peel away the layers of fanfare around the release of the new Navara, we can see that, by and large, there are some solid underpinnings that the manufacturer has honed/improved to give the people the kind of bakkie they demand. Who knows? It might even have the ability to go off-road (forgive my sarcasm).
Subaru Outback – The identity crisis
Subaru is a brand that has been kind of lurking for the past decade (or so). The champion of symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) passenger cars doesn't dominate in any segment, nor does it have the sheer clout of its ally Toyota, but that’s okay because it's a brand that serves its purpose. Reborn (quite literally) in the rally world, Subaru followed in the footsteps of Lancia (with the Integrale), attracted a cult-like following with the Impreza WRX STi and amassed loyal customers across the globe, especially in the US. In fact, the boxer-engine-and-AWD combo has been intrinsic to the brand’s lasting success.
Since the heady days of its involvement in the WRC (that's where the firm's Rally Blue paint finish comes from), Suburu has dropped its boy-racer image and eased into a more mature, people-carrying role. That's “adulting” (we all have to go through it). Subaru’s latest Outback looks to continue in that unflappable all-purpose role even though it's not entirely clear whether the model's an SUV or an estate!
I also can't help but wonder if someone who owned a WRX STI (GC8-generation) in the '90s would stroll into a Subaru dealer today (while pushing a pram and with a spouse and couple more kids in tow) to test the new Outback. Do you know what? The Outback's not inexpensive, but they just might; yes, indeed, Subaru fans are that loyal.
Ferrari 812 Competizione – ‘sustainable’ V12 motoring
What if I told you that V12s will be around for the next 30 years – there isn’t anything to worry about, they're not being killed off? It's a comforting thought and well, looky here. Despite the motoring world finding itself in the convoluted transition between ICE age retirement and the EV revolution, if you’re able to see the wood for the trees you’ll know that V12 engines and cars like the 812 Competizione will be around for some time. Why? Because as long as rich customers want V12s, boutique brands like Ferrari will happily produce them and charge you (very dearly) for the privilege of owning a vehicle with a full dozen cylinders wedged under its bonnet. Believe me, the mighty buck will invariably find a way to circumvent emissions laws and defy those myriad impassioned rants made at environmental forums.
The V12 engine has been at the epicentre of nostalgic motoring provocation and no brand has captured that raw emotion quite like Ferrari, which has embedded the 12-pot into its DNA ever since old man Enzo threw his first tantrum. The V12 will remain after its maker ceases production and disappears. The British Motor Corporation might be no more, but its body panel jigs for the original MINI have since been acquired and used to prepare completely new cars. There are other "restomod" success stories and the same will happen if people still want V12-powered cars in future (provided they can afford 'em).
New Electronic Drivers License for SA?
A new, more efficient driver’s license card system is being developed and is expected to be rolled out in the middle of the 2021/2022 financial year, according to Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula.
If you are a licensed motorist in South Africa you are likely to have experienced some form of inefficiency at your local traffic department. The Covid-19 lockdown has only exacerbated the inefficiencies but thankfully the Transport Department is taking action to improve the situation.
The Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) is responsible for producing driver’s license cards and in its annual performance plan, it was announced that a new driver license car system is in the final phase of design.
The DLCA said, “The introduction of the new driving license involves a new design of the driving license card, and the re-engineering of processes to allow for agility and focus on delivering services efficiently and quickly. The project will allow for the adoption of digital technologies such as blockchain and other related technologies which will form the platform of an integrated transport system ”.
Fikile Mbalula has acknowledged that serious intervention is necessary to alleviate pressure at Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs).
“Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs) provide an important service to our motorists, as they are an important support system to enable mobility. The difficulties experienced by citizens in booking slots through the online platform is a serious cause for concern. We are gravely concerned that preliminary investigations suggest that corruption is the principal driver of lack of availability of booking slots in various DLTCs across Gauteng,” Mbalula said.
“The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic laid bare these challenges, most of which are a consequence of corruption in the system,” he added
The intention of the new driver’s license card system is to improve efficiency, stem corruption and modernise the process through the adoption of technology that will eliminate or drastically reduce the need to queue at DLTCs.
The DLCA will also modernise the production of driving licenses which will include a new machine that will produce better quality license cards but also lay the foundation for a mobile or e-driving licence.
This means that motorists will have the option for both a physical driver’s license card as well as an electronic license.
We expect to see the rollout of the new driver’s license card system towards the end of 2021 or early in 2022. We will keep you updated as soon as more information becomes available.
Audi RS6 Avant vs Mercedes-AMG E63 S – Drag race and rolling race
All the power you could ever ask for in a 4-door family car meant for the Autobahn. What happens when we put them against each other in a drag race?
We are very excited to bring you a clash between these two German sledgehammers. These cars are the product of a manic German power war, which has resulted in family cars having more power than Lamborghini supercars.
And so the test car stars aligned, we hired an airstrip outside Cape Town and we staged a few epic 400-metre races between the brand new Audi RS6 Avant and the facelifted Mercedes-AMG E63 S.
The Mercedes has the upper hand in the power and torque department but Audi has a reputation for awesome launch control systems. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this super-saloon (and wagon) shoot-out.
Looking for a used Audi in South Africa? We have over 2 400 to choose from!
The GR Sport badge is making a comeback to the Toyota Hilux
*Pictured is the previous Toyota Hilux GR Sport
The claim was made by a Japanese publication Creative311 which says a sportier flagship Toyota Hilux GR Sport will be launched in Japan in October 2021. This model is not to be confused with the performance GR version as the family hierarchy suggests GR Sport implies visual sporty tweaks as well as a mild suspension tune.
Interestingly, the source claimed the GR Sport upgrades will "greatly improve" its offroad and 4×4 capabilities, thanks to tuning input from the Toyota Gazoo Racing department. Like the GR Sport model you see here which was offered with the pre-facelift Toyota Hilux, expect extensive GR branding. But, this time around, it's said the new Toyota Hilux GR Sport will feature unique 18-inch wheels wrapped in 265/60-profile all-terrain rubber, flared wheel arches, and a retuned sports suspension.
Inside, expect GR-branded items like gearshift lever, metallic pedals, sportier seats, and air vents. As its a GR Sport model, the engine is going to remain identical to the standard vehicle. In Japan, there's just one powertrain option, the 2.4-litre turbodiesel with 110 kW and 400 Nm. Our engine offerings are diverse, with petrol and diesel options, but the 150 kW and 500 Nm 2.8 GD-6 steals the show with its tremendous power and refinement.
The critical news is that the SA-spec Toyota Hilux is assembled right here in SA, at Toyota's facility in Prospecton, Durban. We've reached out to Toyota South Africa and will update accordingly.
We recently sampled Audi’s latest iteration of its TT RS on a picturesque ribbon of asphalt on the Cape Peninsula. Have mild styling tweaks to the Ingolstadt firm’s "supercar slayer" improved its purchasing proposition sufficiently to dissuade buyers from purchasing rival models made by Porsche, BMW and Toyota?
We Don’t Like: Fuel consumption increases when you are having fun…
Fast Facts:
Model tested: Audi TT RS Coupe
Price: R1 069 000 (April 2021)
Engine: 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder
Power/Torque: 294 kW/480 Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
Fuel consumption: 8.7 L/100 km (claimed)
Load space: 305 litres
What is it?
The Audi TT RS punches way above its weight and it has the ability to shame many performance cars that cost far more…
Audi’s 3rd-generation TT was launched in South Africa in 2016 and our most recent encounter with the range-topping TT RS was 2 years ago. Since then, the TT RS has received a mild facelift and even though Audi has left its charge's sonorous and thrusting 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder engine untouched, this latest iteration is purported to be the sharpest version of the 2+2 coupe yet…
In terms of visual differentiators, the updated TT RS can be specified with this new striking Kyalami Green body colour and is instantly recognisable by virtue of its matt titanium-look quattro logo (at the base of the RS honeycomb grille), which is flanked by noticeably larger air dams. At the rear, a sporty fixed-wing (with winglets) lends the TT RS a more dynamic and purposeful stance, while the large-bore dual oval exhaust outlets (set in an RS-specific diffuser) are clear indicators that there’s far more to this car than you might expect! Does it still represent good value as a sportscar, however? Let's find out.
How fast is the Audi TT RS?
A newly-designed fixed-wing enhances the look of the TT RS and those oval tailpipes emit glorious noises too…
Let us put it this way… The TT RS has the ability to give notably more expensive (and exotic) machinery a good wallop in a 0-to-100 kph dash; its performance is so compelling that you may swiftly come to the realisation that you don’t need to spend exorbitant sums of money to access considerable levels of performance. The TT RS packs a serious punch!
On paper, the TT RS is claimed to have a 0-to-100 kph sprint time of 3.7 sec, which is mightily impressive. For context, that’s half a second faster than its main rival, the BMW M2 Competition, and only half a second slower than the V10-engined Audi R8 supercar – let that sink in for a second… Top speed is limited to 250 kph, but you can optionally increase the top speed to 280 kph.
The engine responsible for creating the magic is, of course, Audi’s familiar 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder turbopetrol engine, which develops a hearty 294 kW/480 Nm and is mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; power is directed to the tar via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. With a kerb weight of 1 450 kg, the TT RS feels decisively quick off the line and its acceleration is, in a word, stupendous!
What’s the Audi TT RS like to drive?
Equipped with 20-inch wheels and sport suspension plus, the TT RS' ride is firm but delivers excellent handling ability.
It’s a blast! The Audi's multifunction steering wheel is equipped with the familiar red engine start-stop button which, when pressed, brings the sonorous 5-pot to life with a deep gurgle and a percussive pop, which set the tone for what’s to come. The TT RS is equipped with an active exhaust system and by pushing the exhaust button located in the centre console, you can amplify the engine sound. Suffice to say, the powerplant sounds marvellous when you rev it out; for enthusiasts (for who this car is intended), it will evoke nostalgia for Audi's all-conquering Group B world rally cars from the early Eighties.
The driver can toggle between drive modes (including comfort, auto, dynamic and individual) by using the steering-mounted drive select button. In dynamic mode, the TT RS is fully primed to deliver peak performance (and it certainly doesn’t disappoint), while the steering-mounted shift paddles can be used to actuate fast "manual" gear changes. What we arguably like most about the TT RS is just how easily it delivers its punch. It’s not intimidating to drive quickly and, because the Audi's so confidently planted to the tar, it affords its pilots ample opportunities to enjoy the chassis- and engine characteristics fully.
For this particular test, we took the TT RS for a drive around the Cape Peninsula and if you are familiar with these spectacularly scenic roads, they serve as a good suspension test for any vehicle (not only sportscars) because the road surface is generally poor and uneven. This TT RS is equipped with Sport Suspension Plus with adaptive damping (a R14 950 optional extra) and even though it’s firmly sprung, which is to be expected, the Audi's ride quality is still fairly pliant/not as compromised as we thought it would be. In comfort mode, the ride softens up, making the coupe more useable for daily commuting.
Fuel consumption is on the high side when you are having fun, but who cares?
One of the TT RS’ main strengths is its handling ability. The steering is impressively sharp and instantly responsive to driver inputs, which means the flagship TT can be hustled into corners at heady speeds with supreme accuracy and confidence. Also, because the TT RS has such a wide and low stance (not to mention the broad footprints of its sticky tyres), grip levels are high and you can effectively pile on the pace and power through corners (not just after exiting them) with impressive zeal. The TT RS’s performance is highly addictive and it delivers fun and driving enjoyment by the proverbial boatload.
For those of you who care about the uncompromising performance machine's "fuel efficiency", Audi claims an average consumption figure of 8.7 L/100 km for the TT RS. We were having so much fun in the test unit that the trip computer returned 12.8 L/100 km, but we are quite certain that if you adopt a frugal driving style you could get that figure closer to 10 L/100 km, but then, why would you want to?
What’s the interior like?
Audi's RS sport seats provide good support and they are electrically adjustable. Seat heating is optional…
The interior of the updated TT RS hasn’t changed drastically, but overall perceived build quality (fit and finish) remains impressive. There are carbon fibre trim elements on the steering wheel, centre console and door handles that add some sportiness to the cabin. Audi is very good at producing fuss-free, minimalist cabins and this TT RS’ interior is a fine example of the adage “less is more”… it really is!
Given that the TT RS is such a driver-focused machine, we find the absence of a touchscreen infotainment system quite refreshing. Entertainment-, telephony- as well as navigation functions can, however, be accessed through using the MMI controls in the centre console or by utilising the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel. Functions are displayed on Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit (digital instrument cluster) and you can easily sift through settings and vehicle information without taking your hands off the 'wheel. You can also change the layout of the screen's display to suit your preference/requirements.
In a world in which car interiors are becoming increasingly complex and technologically loaded, the TT RS' human-machine electronic interface is still wonderfully simple; it's certainly worth appreciating.
Less is more in the Audi TT RS. This is a nice place to be…
Other nice-to-have interior features include electrically adjustable Nappa leather-trimmed RS sports seats, Alcantara accents on the transmission lever and steering wheel, climate control, a reverse-view camera, plus front and rear park distance control. This test unit was also equipped with optional seat heating, a wireless charging pad and a (quite delectable) Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
Even though the current generation TT is already over 5 years old, we think the coupe's interior is ageing beautifully, which is worth knowing for long-term ownership.
Is the TT RS practical?
This is a 2+2 sports car, so the focus is predictably on performance rather than practicality. Nonetheless, the TT RS is a reasonably practical offering. Sure, it’s not really suitable for family use, but if needs must, small children can be seated in the rear and there are even ISOfix child-seat mounts fitted (if you wish to fit a child seat or two).
I used the TT RS to go surfing on the peninsula and I am happy to report that the interior can accommodate a 6-foot surfboard fairly easily, which means that you can transport longer items if you need to. Also, luggage space is not as compromised as you might think – while the load area is long but not very deep, Audi still claims a "generous" capacity of 305 litres.
As for its practicality as "a daily", the TT RS strikes an acceptable balance between sportiness and driving comfort. You can drive the TT RS every day (probably with a big smile plastered to your face).
How much does the Audi TT RS cost in South Africa?
The Audi TT RS Coupe is priced from R1 069 000 and the TT RS Roadster from R1 113 500 (April 2021). A 1-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan are included.
What car is this fast at this price? The Audi TT RS makes a strong case for itself…
Given its price tag of just over R1 million (R1 069 000), the TT RS offers a level of (stonking) performance that is difficult to match rand-for-rand. Yes, it scores highly in the bang-for-buck stakes and, don’t forget the magical engine sound it emits! Rivalling products from BMW, Porsche and Toyota each have their own USPs, but even so, the TT RS just seems to nail that winning sportscar formula on the head.
It still looks phenomenal in the metal, it sounds great, it’s blisteringly fast and delivers mega performance. What's more, its interior design is not only aesthetically pleasing but complements the overall package, all of which can be had at just over R1 million. What’s not to like about the TT RS? Also, don't forget that the TT was also a Fun Car category winner in the 2015/16 iteration of the #CarsAwards.
Granted, the TT is getting on in years – there are newer and arguably more sought-after machines on the market. Nevertheless, the TT RS remains one of Audi’s finest driver’s cars. As widely reported, the future of the TT (and indeed the R8) hangs in the balance; Audi won’t be investing in new engine development due to ever-tightening emissions regulations and, as brands prepare to roll out a slew of all-new EV products, it's a sad reality there won't be successors to the TT and R8, at least not as we know them. Maybe, just maybe, that alone is enough reason to buy a TT RS or at least consider it…
Depending on where your allegiances lie, alternatives to the Audi TT RS include the BMW M2 Competition, Toyota GR Supra and the Porsche 718 Cayman. Which one would you choose?
Volkswagen has teased the updated version of the 7-seater Tiguan Allspace. Here's what we know so far.
The Volkswagen Tiguan facelift is on its way to South Africa and should be here soon, but what about its more practical 7-seater Allspace sibling? Volkswagen has teased this image ahead of the vehicle's production reveal on the 12th May 2021.
With over 6 million sales since the model's introduction back in 2007, the Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the Wolfsburg-based brand's most important models. The market has shifted dramatically in favour of the SUV body style and Volkswagen wants to maintain its strong sales record. The Tiguan Allspace is essentially a stretched-out version of the standard Tiguan – an excellent demonstration of the MQB platform's versatility.
The Allspace is 22 cm longer than the Tiguan and has been on sale since 2017, plugging the gap left by the Volkswagen MPV range – a segment that has seen a tremendous decline. Volkswagen claims 55% of all Tiguans sold have been the Allspace.
What has changed? While details are scarce, we suspect the same enhancements seen in the standard Tiguan will be carried over. Volkswagen claims there'll be a fresh new design, as well as the addition of advanced technical features. There will new control and assist systems for added convenience as well as the obligatory online-based connectivity options.
Volkswagen says the Allspace will be offered as the Tiguan L made in China for that market while the long-wheelbase Tiguan versions for North and South America, and the Tiguan Allspace for Europe will be made in Puebla, Mexico.
Set your reminders for the 12th May 2021, when the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace will be revealed.
