On August 5, FAW-Volkswagen officially launched the refreshed Talagon, its flagship full-size SUV. The facelifted model is offered in two trims: the 450 AWD Supreme priced at RMB 269,900 ($37,100 USD) and the 450 AWD Flagship priced at RMB 299,900 ($41,200 USD). Both six-seat and seven-seat layouts are priced equally. As a mid-cycle update, the new Talagon introduces significant design changes inside and out while debuting the all-new fifth-generation EA888 2.0T engine.
Exterior Design
The 2025 Talagon receives a reworked front fascia, offered in two styles: the “拓境锋锐” (Adventure Sharp) grille and the R-Line Sport grille. The R-Line version features a black mesh pattern and a subtle “R” badge, while the standard variant is decorated with multiple chrome elements. Both share a new continuous LED daytime running light bar linking the headlights, with the Volkswagen logo illuminated at the center. The bumper integrates vertical air ducts and an active grille shutter to optimize aerodynamics.
From the side, the SUV maintains its upright stance but gains new alloy wheel designs and a chrome strip running beneath the windows. The R-Line adds gloss-black trim around the wheel arches and body-colored bumpers for a sportier appeal. Dimensions remain imposing at 5,168 x 2,002 x 1,792 mm with a 2,980 mm wheelbase, available in both 6- and 7-seat layouts. At the rear, the Talagon adopts a redesigned full-width taillight with an illuminated logo and a sleeker bumper highlighted by chrome detailing.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Talagon embraces a wraparound cockpit design. It features a new 15-inch floating center display powered by Qualcomm’s 8155 processor, supported by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.6-inch passenger display, and a head-up display. Wireless charging pads, electronic column-mounted shifter, physical steering wheel buttons, and heated steering functionality are all included.
Buyers can choose between a 2+2+2 six-seat layout with independent second-row captain’s chairs offering electric adjustment and armrests, or a 2+3+2 seven-seat configuration with 40/60 split-folding capability in the second row.
Powertrain
The biggest upgrade lies under the hood: the facelifted Talagon adopts VW’s fifth-generation EA888 2.0T engine. The low-output version produces 157 kW, while the high-output version delivers 200 kW. For comparison, the outgoing Talagon offered 137 kW and 162 kW 2.0T options, alongside a 220 kW 2.5L V6.
Market Positioning
Launched originally in 2021, the Talagon is Volkswagen’s largest SUV globally, sharing its MQB-based platform with the SAIC Volkswagen Teramont (Atlas). Competing against rivals such as the Teramont Pro, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder, the Talagon sold 6,451 units in the first half of the year, trailing behind the Teramont (19,477 units) but ahead of the Pathfinder (4,127 units).
