It’s the silly season in the South African motor industry right now, where brands scramble to show off exactly what they’re adding to the local mix this year. Recently, Volkswagen Group Africa (previously Volkswagen South Africa) took the turn to strut their stuff on the stage at the plant in Kariega.
Volkswagen’s legacy in South Africa spans over 70 years – beginning with the launch of the iconic Beetle. Since then, the brand has become a cornerstone of the local automotive landscape, known for its commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation. From the classic Kombi to the modern Polo and Tiguan, Volkswagen has consistently delivered vehicles that suit the diverse needs of South African drivers.
While VW is the second largest automaker in the country, in recent years, the brand has declined somewhat in the face of stiff competition from new players, predominantly from China. Ironically, the day before VW showcased its 2025 lineup to the media, the news broke that Suzuki had claimed second place in January sales, pipping VW for the second time in a year. While there are several reasons, VW has lacked proper entry-level options besides Polo and Polo Vivo for some time. This is where Suzuki (and several Chinese challengers) operate and where Wolfsburg had to focus all their attention when planning its “what’s next.”
In 2025, Volkswagen will continue building on its historical legacy with an exciting new model lineup that reflects the brand’s evolving vision. The range additions blends technology, performance, and exceptional value, from compact hatchbacks to versatile SUVs and commercial vehicles.
A Fresh Face in the SUV Segment
The Volkswagen Tayron, set to launch in the second half of 2025, brings a fresh and sophisticated option to the local SUV market. Positioned between the Touareg and Tiguan, the seven-seat Tayron picks up where the Tiguan Allspace left off, offering a more premium alternative for customers seeking more space and advanced features. Built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the Tayron will be available in two equipment lines: Life and R-Line.
One of the standout features of the Tayron will be the IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights offer enhanced visibility and safety on the road. The SUV boasts a luxurious interior, complete with a pneumatic 10-chamber pressure point massage function for the front seats, a first in its class. The Tayron will be equipped with a full suite of assist systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and Park Assist Plus, ensuring an exceptional driving experience.
With options such as a Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and electrically adjustable ergoActive Plus seats, the Tayron is designed to appeal to those who desire a blend of performance and comfort. While engine details will be released closer to the launch, the Tayron’s overall appeal lies in its versatility, making it a compelling choice for families and adventure seekers.
THE RETURN OF THE “STANDARD” GOLF
The new Volkswagen Golf will debut this month. It features a redesigned exterior and the latest technological advancements. The Golf has long been a benchmark in the compact hatchback segment, and this iteration aims to raise the bar even further with a next-generation infotainment system, redesigned front and rear ends, and more efficient drive systems.
The new Golf will be available in a range of equipment lines, including the Life, Life +, R-Line, and R-Line + variants. The Golf Life will feature Eco LED headlights, a 12.9″ infotainment system, and a 10″ digital cockpit, while the sportier R-Line derivatives will offer features like heated steering wheels, sports suspension, and LED plus headlamps. The Golf will be powered by a 1.4 TSI engine producing 110 kW, mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, ensuring a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
The new Golf’s pricing will range from R580,900 for the Golf Life to R688,100 for the Golf R-Line +. This makes it an accessible yet high-tech choice for drivers looking to relive the heyday of the hatchback that started it all. With its focus on advanced technology and efficiency, the new Golf is set to appeal to a wide range of South African drivers.
T-CROSS LINEUP GROWS
Volkswagen has added two new derivatives to its best-selling T-Cross lineup for the 2025 model year. Since its launch in 2019, the T-Cross has become the best-selling Volkswagen SUV, with over 36,000 units sold in South Africa. The two new derivatives, the T-Cross 1.0 TSI 70 kW manual and 1.0 TSI 85 kW DSG, offer a blend of performance, style, and advanced features for customers seeking a compact yet versatile SUV.
The T-Cross 70 kW comes standard with an 8″ Digital Cockpit, App-Connect, multi-function steering wheel, air conditioning, and 16″ wheels. This model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds, with a top speed of 180 km/h and fuel economy of 5.9 l/100 km. The T-Cross 85 kW offers LED headlights, power-adjustable heated exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, and advanced driver assistance systems. This model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 10.2 seconds, with a top speed of 193 km/h and fuel economy of 5.6 l/100 km.
The T-Cross’s prices range from R400,700 for the 1.0 TSI 70 kW Base to R418,200 for the 1.0 TSI 85 kW DSG Base, making it an excellent value for a practical yet stylish compact SUV.
NEW VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER
The new generation Volkswagen Transporter is set to launch in the second half of 2025, offering more space, better load capacity, and enhanced sustainable mobility. The new Transporter will be available in a panel van variant with a long wheelbase and will offer two engine and gearbox options: 2.0 TDI 81 kW with a six-speed manual and 2.0 TDI 110 kW with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
VW has significantly expanded the standard equipment package for the new Transporter, including LED headlights, a 12″ digital cockpit, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a multifunction steering wheel. The new model also features a larger load compartment, with up to 6.8 m³ of space in the extended wheelbase version and a maximum payload of 1.33 tonnes. The maximum trailer weight is now 2.8 tonnes, an increase from the previous model’s 2.5 tonnes.
The new Transporter will offer improved exterior dimensions, including a 146 mm increase in length and a 128 mm wider body. It will be available with a choice of two or four-wheel drive, making it suitable for various commercial needs. The Transporter will also feature a range of TDI engine options, including 81 kW, 110 kW, and 125 kW derivatives, providing ample power for carrying and towing heavy loads.
CRAFTING FLEXIBILITY
Volkswagen will introduce its new-generation Crafter to the market in the first half of 2025. The new Crafter will feature a range of enhancements that make it one of the most versatile commercial vehicles. It will come standard with a Digital Cockpit, a 10.3″ infotainment display, and a range of new safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Park Distance Control.
Volkswagen has designed the new Crafter to be highly flexible. It offers up to three vehicle lengths and roof heights, ensuring a solution for every commercial need. The new Crafter will be available with front—or rear-wheel drive and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. It will be powered by new 2.0 TDI engines offering outputs of 103 kW, 120 kW, and 130 kW. The Crafter’s maximum gross vehicle weight will range from 3.5 to 5 tonnes, depending on the variant.
With its combination of high-tech features, flexible configurations, and ample cargo space, the new Crafter is set to be an indispensable tool for businesses across South Africa.
LAST WORD
Volkswagen’s 2025 lineup showcases the brand’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative vehicles tailored to the needs of South African drivers. From the new Tayron and Golf to the versatile T-Cross, Transporter, and Crafter, each model brings a fresh perspective on performance, technology, and design. With these new offerings, Volkswagen is poised to continue its legacy as one of South Africa’s most trusted automotive brands.
Keep an eye on Driven’s social media pages for more insights into what VW is planning for 2025. Visit us at facebook.com/DrivenMotoring, @DrivenMotoring (X), and @DrivenMagZA (Instagram).
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © VOLKSWAGEN GROUP AFRICA
