Currently reading: New Volkswagen Taigo hits European roads as 2021 launch nears
New compact model, based on the T-Cross SUV, has already been launched in Brazil as the Nivus

The Volkswagen Nivus, a compact crossover originally launched in South America and Mexico, will make its debut in European markets - including the UK - before the end of 2021 as the Taigo. 

Described as having a “sporty and vibrant” look along with a “peculiar character”, the Taigo is similar in positioning to the Volkswagen T-Cross already on sale in western Europe. However, it’s differentiated by a lower, coupé-style roofline and is longer and wider. It's based on the same MQB A0 platform as the Indian-market VW Taigun revealed earlier this year. 

It's now been spotted testing completely undisguised on German public roads, revealing that Volkswagen will make barely any styling changes for the European market. 

The Nivus's European launch was confirmed shortly before Volkswagen revealed it would be called the Taigo here, and is set for the fourth quarter of the year. It will be closely followed by a facelifted version of the larger T-Roc SUV.

While the Nivus was developed specifically for the South American market, VW committed at its launch in 2020 to eventually offering it in certain European markets. 

When launched in Brazil, the Nivus featured a new, Brazil-developed infotainment system called Volks Play. The 10.0in high-definition screen features tech similar to that seen in recent European VWs, including an App Store for increased functionality and built-in wi-fi. 

Vw nivus pics7

The system is also said to be durable and water resistant – part of a wider focus with the Nivus to ensure long-term reliability, an important factor for harsh South American climates and roads. For example, the firm is able to test the car’s electrical system to see how it fares with up to 10 years of use. 

The Nivus is the first Brazilian model with adaptive cruise control, too, and autonomous emergency braking features as well. Keyless entry, six airbags, a driver drowsiness detector and a digital dashboard are also said to be segment firsts in the market. 

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VW's new compact crossover retains its classy, substantial feel on UK roads, even in mid-range, lower-powered form

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More specific details, including the car's engines and pricing, have yet to be revealed - though Volkswagen has confirmed it will be offered in Europe with "economical TSI engines", implying there will be no diesel options.

READ MORE

Volkswagen launches new Taigun crossover in India

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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Saucerer 19 May 2021
This looks more like a jacked-up hatchback than a SUV in the same mould as a Fiesta Active. In fact it seems nothing more than a raised Polo with a different style hatchback. The central section from A to C pillar is identical to the Polo.
superstevie 19 May 2021

@catnip, that isn't hard, but it isn't exactly much of a looker either. It seems like a bit of a blob

catnip 19 May 2021

I actually think this looks better than the T-Cross, which must be one of the most dull vehicles to look at, it almost sends you to sleep. Its still just another SUV though...