Volkswagen is set to launch its Tera subcompact SUV in March 2025, beginning in Brazil and later expanding to markets like Argentina and India. Tera is expected to be the most affordable and smallest Volkswagen SUV, designed to compete with popular models like the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Fiat Pulse, and Renault Kardian.
As a result, the SUV is generating significant interest from both potential buyers and dealerships, signaling its potential to reshape the subcompact SUV market.
Volkswagen’s Shift to the Subcompact SUV Segment
Initially, Volkswagen had opted out of the sub-4m SUV segment, focusing on its electrification goals. This left Skoda to tackle the segment solo with the Kushaq.
However, evolving market dynamics and the consistent demand for entry-level SUVs in countries like Brazil and India have led Volkswagen to revise its strategy. Tera’s entry into this volume-oriented segment aligns with the company’s goal of capturing a significant share of the growing market for affordable SUVs in developing countries.
Platform and Dimensions
Volkswagen Tera is built on the reliable MQB-A0 platform, also used by other Volkswagen cars like the Polo. Measuring approximately 4 meters in length, the Tera will feature a wheelbase of 2,566 mm, which matches that of the Polo.
Competitors’ Wheelbase:
Fiat Pulse: 2,532 mm
Renault Kardian: 2,604 mm
For the Indian market, Tera will utilize the MQB-A0 IN platform, a localized version of the MQB-A0 platform. This version is already in use with popular models like the Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and Virtus, which ensures the platform is well-suited to Indian driving conditions.
Engine and Performance
Powering the Volkswagen Tera is the trusted 1.0-litre TSI engine producing:
115 PS of power
178 Nm of torque
The SUV will offer two transmission options:
6-speed automatic transmission
This powertrain is already popular in models like the Volkswagen Polo in Brazil. While models such as the Nivus and T-Cross in Brazil use a higher-tuned version of this engine (128 hp), the Tera will stick to the lower-powered configuration to optimize fuel efficiency and maintain an affordable starting price.
Price and Launch Timeline
The Tera’s Brazil debut is set for March 2025, with subsequent launches in other Latin American markets and India. In India, Volkswagen Tera is expected to arrive by late 2025 or early 2026, with a starting price of around Rs 8 lakh.
With its proven platform, efficient powertrain, and competitive pricing, the Volkswagen Tera is poised to become a formidable competitor in the subcompact SUV segment, catering to budget-conscious buyers who seek a blend of style, performance, and reliability. Stay tuned for more updates on this game-changing SUV!
Also Read: