The automotive market is filled with various options when it comes to crossovers, and one of the newcomers in this segment is the Volkswagen Tharu.

The Tharu offers a blend of style, performance, and practicality, catering to the needs of urban dwellers and adventure seekers alike. With its impressive features, can it stand out in the highly competitive crossover market?

Let’s see by comparing it with one of the most popular models in the crossover segment today, the Honda HR-V.

Exterior

The Tharu showcases Volkswagen's signature design language with its bold front grille and matrix LED headlights with IQ-Lights. The muscular body lines and prominent wheel arches give it a sporty and commanding presence on the road. On the rear is the illuminated Volkswagen insignia and the horizontal red accent, which are also seen on the brand’s electrified models.

On the other hand, the HR-V carries the Honda family design cues with its sleek and aerodynamic profile. The bold front grille and sharp LED headlights create a sense of dynamism. Overall, the HR-V’s exterior manages to strike a perfect balance between sportiness and sophistication.

Considering the Tharu’s innovative design elements and the HR-V’s eye-catching style, we give this round a tie.

Interior

The Tharu features a well-designed cabin that prioritizes comfort and convenience. The spacious seating offers ample legroom for up to five passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The Tharu also comes equipped with a multitude of tech features, such as a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with gesture control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, wireless phone charger, USB Type A and C ports, and 12-volt sockets.

Meanwhile, the HR-V boasts a thoughtfully designed interior, featuring premium materials and a driver-oriented cockpit. The well-padded seats offer excellent support, making every ride a comfortable experience. The HR-V comes packed with tech features such as an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display, USB charging ports on the rear, and 12-volt sockets.

In terms of interior features, the Tharu has a slight edge over the HR-V.

Engine

Under the hood, the Tharu packs a punch with its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, delivering impressive performance and efficient fuel consumption. This engine produces 157 horsepower (hp) and 250 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque, and is mated to a seven-speed direct shift gearbox.

The HR-V is also powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that churns out 128 hp and 240 Nm of torque.

Since the Tharu produces slightly higher output, it also wins this round.

Safety

To provide safe and confident driving, the Tharu is equipped with multiple airbags, side assist, rear traffic alert, electronic stabilization program, electronic parking brake, traction control system, anti-slip regulation, parking distance control, intelligent parking assist system, area view camera, and reverse camera.

Meanwhile, the HR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing, which includes advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, low speed follow, collision mitigation braking system, lane keeping assist system, road departure mitigation, lane departure warning, auto high beam, and lead car departure notification.

This suite of state-of-the-art safety technologies makes the HR-V win this round.

Verdict

After evaluating the Volkswagen Tharu and the Honda HR-V side by side, it becomes evident that both vehicles offer their own unique advantages. However, the Tharu offers more interior features and delivers higher output, therefore, it wins this crossover comparo.

The HR-V is still a good alternative for those looking for a more affordable option. Plus, Honda’s undeniable reliability also makes it an excellent choice.

Ultimately, the choice between these two crossovers depends on individual preferences, priorities, and budget considerations. Whether you prioritize style or performance, both the Volkswagen Tharu and the Honda HR-V offer compelling options in the competitive crossover segment.

Photos from Volkswagen, Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated, Hazel Nicole Carreon, Roy Robles, Kent Flores, and Ruben Manahan IV

Also read:

Volkswagen Tharu vs. the competition

Volkswagen Tharu enters PH market

Volkswagen Tharu is brand’s ‘bridge to electrified future’