On August 1, the 2026 SAIC Volkswagen Tharu Sharp Edition was officially launched. The new model offers five trims, priced between RMB 125,900 – 154,900, with a limited-time flat price starting at RMB 79,900.
Key Updates
As a facelift model, the 2026 Tharu Sharp Edition adds a new 1.5L Sharp Enjoy trim (limited-time price: RMB 97,900) and adjusts some configurations. Powertrain options include a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine and a 1.5T turbocharged engine.
Design-wise, the SUV largely continues the 2025 styling. The front adopts a horizontal grille design connected by an LED light strip across the headlamps, ensuring high recognition. The new 1.5L Sharp Enjoy version also comes with a black sport package, giving it a sportier look. Dimensions are 4355 × 1762 × 1605 mm, with a 2651 mm wheelbase, placing it in the compact SUV segment. Body colors include Vitality Blue, Energetic Pink, Salt Gray, and Moonlight White, with Breeze Green discontinued.
Interior & Features
The cabin keeps a three-spoke steering wheel and floating central touchscreen. The 1.5L Sharp Enjoy trim upgrades to a 9.2-inch infotainment screen and a 10.3-inch instrument cluster. Other highlights include leather sport seats, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and microfiber multifunction steering wheel.
Powertrain
1.5T EVO II engine: 118 kW, 250 Nm, paired with a 7-speed DCT, WLTC fuel consumption 5.7 L/100km.
1.5L NA engine (Sharp Enjoy): 81 kW, 141 Nm, paired with a 6AT, WLTC fuel consumption 6.41 L/100km.
Positioning & Market
The Tharu Sharp Edition is positioned between the VW Tacqua (smaller) and the regular Tharu (larger), serving as SAIC Volkswagen’s entry-level compact SUV. It first launched in September 2024 as the brand’s most affordable SUV. Competitors include Honda HR-V/VEZEL, Mazda CX-30, and similar compact SUVs.
According to retail data, in H1 2025, Tharu series sales reached 71,500 units. Whether the new Sharp Edition can help VW capture more market share in the highly competitive compact SUV segment remains to be seen.
