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Volkswagen Tera Bags 5-Star Latin NCAP Rating: A Strong Skoda Kushaq Rival Emerges
The compact SUV segment continues to heat up, and Volkswagen has just added fuel to the fire. The Volkswagen Tera, a potential rival to the Skoda Kushaq, has achieved a 5-star rating in the latest Latin NCAP crash tests, showcasing Volkswagen’s strong commitment to safety, design, and structural integrity. With the growing demand for safer and feature-packed SUVs in global markets like India and Latin America, the Tera’s performance marks it as a compelling offering in its category.
Volkswagen Tera vs Skoda Kushaq ; Details
Volkswagen Tera: A New Contender in the Compact SUV Segment
The Volkswagen Tera is built on the brand’s MQB-A0 platform, which it shares with the likes of the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq in India. Though primarily designed for Latin American markets, the Tera’s robust safety credentials and attractive package make it a highly competitive model should Volkswagen consider launching it in other emerging markets, including India.
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Latin NCAP 5-Star Rating: What It Means
The Latin NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) conducts independent crash tests to evaluate the safety of vehicles sold in Latin America. In its latest assessment, the Volkswagen Tera scored an impressive 5 stars for both adult occupant and child occupant protection. The SUV scored:
- 92.47% in adult occupant protection
- 91.38% in child occupant protection
- 55.71% for pedestrian protection
- 85.53% in safety assist systems
These numbers highlight the SUV’s structural integrity, its extensive list of standard safety features, and Volkswagen’s engineering prowess in offering advanced protection technologies even in emerging markets.
Standard Safety Features: Leading the Segment
Volkswagen is known for prioritizing safety, and the Tera is no exception. The SUV comes equipped with an impressive array of standard safety features, many of which are absent in rivals. These include:
- Six airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Seatbelt reminder for all seats
- ISOFIX child seat anchor points
- Lane keep assist and driver attention monitoring (available in higher trims)
With these features available right from the base variant, the Tera offers segment-leading safety and peace of mind for buyers.
Design and Dimensions: Stylish Yet Practical
The Volkswagen Tera sports a bold and modern design, consistent with Volkswagen’s global SUV lineup. Signature LED lighting, a prominent front grille, and aerodynamic lines give it a premium yet rugged appeal. While its overall proportions are similar to the Skoda Kushaq and Hyundai Creta, the Tera offers a slightly longer wheelbase, translating to better cabin space.
Key dimensions (approximate):
- Length: 4,300 mm
- Width: 1,800 mm
- Height: 1,650 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,651 mm
The SUV also boasts high ground clearance and large alloy wheels, enhancing its on-road presence and capability.
Powertrains and Efficiency
While the Latin American version comes with a choice of petrol and flex-fuel engines, a potential Indian version could get tried-and-tested TSI petrol units. Engine options may include:
- 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol (115 PS, 178 Nm)
- 1.5-litre TSI EVO turbo-petrol (150 PS, 250 Nm) with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT)
Transmission options are expected to include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch automatic) for higher variants.
These powertrains are already proven in India and would help Volkswagen Tera compete effectively with Kushaq, Creta, Seltos, and Grand Vitara.
Volkswagen Tera vs Skoda Kushaq: Battle of the Cousins
Though both vehicles are based on the same MQB-A0 platform and may share engines, they are likely to differ in terms of design, tuning, feature placement, and interior layout. While the Kushaq leans toward a European minimalist interior, the Tera may offer a more tech-focused cabin with a larger touchscreen, digital cockpit, and connected car features.
If launched in India, Volkswagen may position the Tera slightly above the Taigun, giving buyers a more premium option with enhanced styling and features.
Potential Launch in India?
Though Volkswagen hasn’t officially confirmed the Tera for India, its Latin NCAP success, robust build, and potential overlap with popular models like the Kushaq and Creta make it a strong candidate. If introduced, the Tera could strengthen Volkswagen’s position in the compact SUV space, which continues to dominate Indian sales charts.
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Final Thoughts: A Strong Statement of Safety and Style
The Volkswagen Tera’s 5-star Latin NCAP crash test rating is a testament to the brand’s focus on safety and engineering excellence. As buyers become increasingly safety-conscious, especially in markets like India, such accolades give Volkswagen a much-needed edge in a fiercely competitive segment.
If the Tera comes to India, it will not only rival the Skoda Kushaq but also challenge best-sellers like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
