VW Aims to Make Its Nivus/Taigo Crossover More Exciting | Carscoops

      A small coupe-SUV has been spotted with camouflage covering its updated front and rear sections.

      Volkswagen is currently updating its compact Taigo coupe-SUV. This model, which is smaller than the T-Roc, was seen in prototype form. In South and Central America, VW markets the Taigo as the Nivus.

      With numerous SUVs and crossovers available in Europe, VW's lineup can be overwhelming. Models include the T-Cross, T-Roc, T-Roc Cabriolet, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace, Tayron, Touareg, ID.4, and ID.5. The Taigo serves as an entry-level SUV, and it seems poised for a facelift in 2026.

      Positioned as a sleeker alternative to the more practical T-Cross, the Taigo, also known as the Nivus in South and Central America, comes up short against competitors like the stylish Ford Puma. It presents itself as a practical hatchback with a slight suspension lift, and while the upcoming facelift won’t dramatically transform its appeal, it will enhance its attractiveness.

      Recent images indicate that VW will likely maintain the current design of the Taigo's front end, avoiding a shift to a sleeker grille aligning it with VW's newer models like the Euro Tiguan. This prototype still showcases the traditional deep grille, and it’s notable that, unlike most test vehicles, it prominently displays the manufacturer’s badge.

      Previous reports mentioned that VW unveiled the upgraded Nivus last October, which featured a slimmer grille similar to that of the 2025 Taos. Therefore, it's expected that the Taigo will also adopt this design tweak. Additionally, new daytime running lights and a revised design for the rear LED lights are anticipated when the crossover debuts later this year.

      While these images do not reveal the interior, significant changes are not expected. The Taigo features an older dashboard design reminiscent of 2010s vehicles but still includes the digital amenities that modern buyers desire, featuring a central touchscreen and a TFT instrument cluster. Higher trims come equipped with a digital climate control panel.

      It is unlikely that VW will make substantial changes to the Taigo’s mechanics either, so the existing turbocharged 1.0-liter and 1.5-liter engines will continue, offering power outputs of 94 hp (95 PS), 114 hp (115 PS), and 148 hp (150 PS), all driving the front wheels exclusively.