- The China-only Tavendor by FAW VW is getting a delicate but significant mid-cycle replace.
- Facelift brings revised styling parts and a stronger turbo 2.0-liter engine with 270 hp.
- This SUV continues to fit between the Tayron and Talagon in Volkswagen’s native lineup.
Protecting monitor of Volkswagen’s increasing SUV lineup is not any simple activity, significantly with all of the region-specific fashions similar to China-exclusives. Amongst them is the full-size Tavendor, which, three years after its authentic debut, is now receiving a mid-cycle refresh.
The up to date 2026 Tavendor was quietly revealed via a list on China’s Ministry of Business and Data Know-how web site, providing a primary take a look at the styling modifications and a revised powertrain lineup. The SUV is constructed by FAW-Volkswagen and is obtainable alongside the marginally bigger Talagon within the firm’s Chinese language vary.
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VW designers didn’t go simple on the Tavendor; nonetheless, the tip outcome now appears to be like extra like a product of the rival Stellantis group. The chrome-infused shut line of the hood is paying homage to the earlier Peugeot 3008, whereas the grille with the protruding emblem bears a slight resemblance to the brand new Citroen C5 Aircross.
The outside updates give the Tavendor a sharper presence, although the general design now leans nearer to one thing you may count on from the Stellantis group. The chrome trim working throughout the hood’s shut line echoes the styling of the previous-generation Peugeot 3008, whereas the grille’s new form, full with a protruding emblem, brings to thoughts parts from the most recent Citroen C5 Aircross.
Up entrance, the decrease part of the grille has been eliminated, changed by vertical air inlets built-in into the bumper. The headlight models retain their form however obtain up to date internals that lend them a extra fashionable look. In profile, the design stays unchanged, however the rear will get delicate updates with new graphics for the full-width LED taillights. The exhaust retailers are actually hidden from view for a cleaner look.


Sportier R Line Provides Visible Curiosity
The R Line model of the Tavendor introduces sportier design parts. These embrace a extra aggressive decrease consumption with a honeycomb mesh, distinctive alloy wheels, and a body-colored rear bumper insert. It additionally carries over options from the outgoing mannequin similar to roof rails and a contrasting roof possibility.
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As with most SUVs from the VW Group, the Tavendor rides on the MQB Evo structure. The facelifted model mannequin now measures 5,007 mm (197.1 inches) in size, which is 50 mm longer than the outgoing model. Its wheelbase stays unchanged at 2,980 mm (117.3 inches), and all different dimensions are carried over.
Powertrain Features Extra Muscle
Maybe essentially the most attention-grabbing information is that the flagship Tavendor 450 TSI is fitted with an upgraded turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 270 hp (200 kW / 272 PS). That is 50 hp (37 kW) extra in comparison with its predecessor, promising higher efficiency. Additionally returning is the 380 TSI mannequin, powered by a unique 2.0-liter turbo unit producing 211 hp (157 kW / 214 PS).
The 2026 Tavendor can be obtainable completely in China, with manufacturing dealt with by FAW-Volkswagen. As earlier than, there are not any plans to export it to worldwide markets.