Choosing the right vehicle for your family can feel like a daunting task, especially when you need to consider the requirements of your children as well. Safety, comfort, space and entertainment options often top the list of priorities when it comes to making sure your kids are comfortable on longer journeys. The Volkswagen Tayron is a mid-size SUV designed to offer both functionality and style. But does it compare to others as a family-friendly ride? Let’s take a closer look at what the Tayron has to offer and whether it’s the right choice for families with kids.
Safety Features: A Parent’s Priority
When it comes to family cars, safety is non-negotiable and would be any parents’ concern. The Volkswagen Tayron comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features designed to give parents peace of mind. The vehicle is also kitted out with Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE technology, which includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): maintains a safe distance from the car ahead, reducing the stress of long drives.
- Lane Assist: keeps the car centered in its lane, which can be particularly useful when navigating busy motorways.
- Emergency Assist: detects if the driver is unresponsive due to a medical episode and can bring the car to a safe stop.
- Front Assist: monitors traffic ahead and warns of potential collisions, applying the brakes if necessary.
For families with young children, the Tayron’s ISOFIX child seat anchor points ensure that car seats can be installed securely and easily. Additionally, the vehicle’s five-star Euro NCAP safety rating reveals VW’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all passengers in their cars.
Comfort and Space: Room to Grow
A family SUV must offer ample space for passengers and cargo. The Tayron features a roomy interior with enough seating for up to five people, making it ideal for small to medium-sized families. Key dimensions include:
- Legroom: both the front and rear seats offer generous legroom, making plenty of space for taller passengers or growing kids.
- Cargo Space: with 510 litres of boot space, the Tayron has enough room for pushchairs, sports equipment and the weekly shop. Folding down the rear seats expands this capacity to 1,500 litres, perfect for road trips or holidays.
Comfort is another highlight, with plush seating options and customisable climate control for front and rear passengers. Parents can appreciate the low noise levels inside the cabin, which make for peaceful drives even with a sleeping baby on board.
Entertainment Options: Keeping Kids from Boredom
Long drives with kids can be a challenge, but the Tayron helps keep little ones entertained with a range of advanced tech features. The vehicle comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which can be upgraded to a 10.25-inch display. It supports:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: seamless integration with smartphones allows for music streaming, navigation and access to child-friendly apps.
- Multiple USB Ports: charging points ensure that tablets, phones and gaming devices stay powered throughout your journey.
- Premium Audio System: provides crisp sound quality for sing-alongs or audio books.
For younger children, tablet mounts can be fitted to the rear seats, turning the Tayron into a mobile entertainment hub for comfort and support. Additionally, parents will appreciate the quiet engine and smooth ride, which make for an enjoyable driving experience even during long journeys.
Performance and Handling: A Smooth Drive for All
The Tayron comes with two engine options - a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 150hp and a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, which achieves 186hp. Both options are paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission for smooth and efficient performance. Families will enjoy the car’s responsive handling, which makes city driving and parking a breeze. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, the Tayron offers an optional 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This feature enhances stability and traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, ensuring that any journey you take is hassle-free.
Affordability and Value
While premium family SUVs can be pricey, the Volkswagen Tayron provides the perfect balance of cost and features. With a starting price in the mid-range SUV category, it offers fantastic value for families seeking a reliable, well-equipped vehicle. The Tayron’s fuel efficiency - approximately 30mpg - helps keep running costs manageable, which is a crucial consideration for budget-conscious parents. Volkswagen’s reputation for durability and low maintenance costs adds to the Tayron’s appeal. Expect a dependable ride that won’t require frequent, expensive repairs.
Practical Features for Parents
Busy parents will appreciate the Tayron’s practical touches, which make everyday life easier:
- Hands-free tailgate: opens automatically with a foot swipe, helpful when your hands are full with the weekly shop or your children’s belongings.
- 360-degree camera: provides a bird’s-eye view of the car’s surroundings, making parking easy and ensuring safety in tight spaces.
- Rear sunshades: ideal for protecting kids from harsh sunlight during daytime drives.
- Ample storage: compartments throughout the cabin help keep toys, snacks and other essentials organised.
Considerations to Keep in Mind
Whilst the Volkswagen Tayron offers numerous family-friendly features, there are some things to take into consideration before making your decision:
- Seating capacity: families with more than three children may require a larger SUV with third-row seating, which the Tayron does not offer. Instead, you may want to take a look at the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, which offers ample seating for a larger family.
- Premium options: many of the advanced features, such as the larger touchscreen and premium audio system, are only available in higher trims, potentially increasing the overall cost.
If you’re looking for something bigger, take a look at our range of larger SUVs for bigger families.
Buy the VW Tayron with us today for family-friendly driving
The Volkswagen Tayron makes a strong case as a family-friendly SUV. Its comprehensive safety features, spacious interior and modern technology cater to the needs of parents and children alike. Whilst it may not suit larger families or those seeking third-row seating, its affordability and practical design make it an excellent choice for smaller households.
In a competitive market, the Tayron stands out as a versatile, stylish and reliable option. For families looking for a car that combines both function and uniqueness, the Tayron proves that practicality doesn’t have to come at the expense of elegance. Whether it’s daily school runs or weekend adventures, the Volkswagen Tayron is equipped to handle it all, making it a solid contender for your next family vehicle. If you’re unsure what you're looking for or would like more information about one of the vehicles you see on our website, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our Volkswagen dealerships and we’d be happy to help you.