Volkswagen has officially unveiled its new sub-4 meter SUV, the VW Tera, in Brazil. While the company has not disclosed details about the SUV’s interior or engine specs, spy images and media reports have revealed key information about its powertrain and design.
The Tera is expected to be positioned between the Polo hatchback and the Nivus Coupe SUV in Volkswagen’s global portfolio and is built on the MQB A0 platform, the same platform that underpins several VW and Skoda models like the Taigun, Kushaq, and Skoda Kylaq.
VW Tera Expected Engine Specs
Under the hood, the Tera is likely to feature two engine options. The primary engine will be a 1.0L turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine, marked by the “170 TSI” badge seen on the test mule. This is the same powertrain used in the global Polo and Virtus models and is available in two states of tune — 109 hp and 116 hp, with 165 Nm of torque. While this engine closely mirrors the one offered in the Skoda Kylaq in India, the latter offers slightly more power and torque (114 hp and 178 Nm). The Tera will also get a more affordable 1.0L naturally aspirated MPI engine, also seen on the global Polo, making it competitive against budget-friendly models like the Fiat Pulse and Renault Kardian.
The Tera will be manufactured at VW’s Taubate plant in São Paulo, Brazil, and showcases the company’s updated design language, reminiscent of the new Tiguan and Taos. It features LED headlamps and tail-lights, a bold front bumper with large air intakes, and a unique dual-segment DRL signature. The rear is distinguished by connected LED tail-lamps with a black bar and silver accents. Higher trims will come equipped with 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
VW Tera Launch In India
As for the Indian market, Volkswagen has not confirmed the launch of the Tera. However, reports suggest a sub-4 meter SUV will arrive in India by 2026, built on the India-specific MQB A0 IN platform — the same as the Taigun and Skoda Kylaq. The Indian variant may receive design and interior tweaks to suit local preferences and will be re-engineered to fit under the 4-meter length threshold to benefit from tax advantages.
When launched, the India-spec VW Tera will compete in the highly competitive compact SUV segment, taking on rivals such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Brezza.
