
VW had a rather busy year in 2024, launching four different cars in South Africa.
The German automaker ran into a few delays this year, leading to a rather quiet first six months, but this was soon rectified with the rapid-fire introduction of the new Polo Vivo, T-Cross, Tiguan, and Touareg between August and September.
The first to appear in early August was the Touareg – the brand’s flagship SUV – which underwent a significant facelift.
A few of the major highlights include IQ.Light HD Matrix LED headlights, new 20-inch alloys, a 45W wireless charging pad, and an updated 12-inch digital driver display and 15-inch infotainment screen.
Since it’s a facelift rather than a new generation, the Touareg is hanging onto its coveted 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which produces 190kW and 600Nm.
Next up was the Polo Vivo, which also received a significant revamp with new equipment and safety features such as a 9-inch media screen, improved seats, a multifunction steering wheel, electronic stability control, and additional airbags, though like the Touareg, its powertrain selection is unaffected.
Importantly for VW’s entry-level car in South Africa, the Vivo’s price did not go up to reflect the update, meaning it still goes for a minimum of R266,600.
Not long after the Polo came the T-Cross in late August, which was given similar improvements to its spec sheet with optional Matrix headlamps, a new 8-inch touchscreen, a 10-inch instrument cluster, and redesigned alloy rims.
One important difference with the T-Cross is that its engine selection is currently limited to the 85kW TSI plant, as the more accessible 70kW units will only be added next year.
Finally, there was the all-new Tiguan, and Volkswagen arguably saved the best for last as this is a new-gen vehicle rather than just an update.
It has access to three different drivetrains – two petrol and one diesel – and benefits from additional kit like a 12.9-inch central display, a 10.25-inch driver monitor, Varrena leather upholstery, massage seats, and the optional Matrix headlights.
Welcome additions
These are all of the cars that VW launched in South Africa in 2024.
Click on the underlined prices for more information.
VW Polo Vivo
- Starting price – R266,600
- Number of models – 5
VW T-Cross
- Starting price – R462,200
- Number of models – 3
VW Tiguan
- Starting price – R651,500
- Number of models – 6
VW Touareg
- Starting price – R1,457,900
- Number of models – 2