Volkswagen Ireland will put this, the new Taigo crossover coupe, on sale early next year. Based on the same MQB-A0 platform as the Polo and the T-Cross crossover (not to mention the SEAT Ibiza and Arona, and the Skoda Kamiq and the new Fabia), Volkswagen says that it's the first time that the desirable coupe-like bodystyle has been offered in the cheapest crossover segment.
Coupe version of the T-Cross
While it's, effectively, a coupe version of the T-Cross (at least it is mechanically speaking) VW reckons that it will complement that model, rather than cannibalise sales from it when Irish buyers get their chance early next year.
Although Irish specifications and prices won't be announced until September or October, we do know a few key facts about the Taigo (which is based on a Brazilian-market VW called the Nivus, incidentally).
It will come only with petrol engines - a choice of 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinders with either 95hp or 110hp, or a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo with 150hp. A DSG automatic gearbox will be available on the more powerful 1.0 and on the 1.5.
Digital screens inside
Inside, digital instruments will be standard (a seven-inch screen for the basic model, upgradeable to a 10.25-inch screen) while the central infotainment screen will run from 6.5 inches on basic models through to 9.2. inches for top-spec Taigos. That central screen will come with VW's new MIB3 operating system, which means you get live connectivity features, and eventually - not sure how we feel about this yet - the possibility for Volkswagen to sell you equipment upgrades over-the-air.
At the front, there are LED headlights (Matrix LED units for pricier versions) with a full-width LED light bar in the grille. That light bar is mirrored on the back, with another LED bar between the brake lights. There are also little light projectors in the door mirrors, which shine a 'honeycomb' pattern onto the ground.
Big boot
It'll be pretty practical, the Taigo, with a 483-litre boot (which is more than you get in a standard Golf) although it's worth noting that there's actually fractionally less rear legroom than you get in the mechanically-related Polo hatchback. That could be a critical measurement if you're loading in kids in safety seats.
The Taigo will be strong on safety too, with the option of the full suite of Volkswagen's 'IQ.Drive Travel Assist' electronic driver aids including lane-keeping steering, rear crossing traffic alert, and active cruise control.
We'll bring you more details as we get them, closer to the Irish on-sale date.