The Volkswagen Tayron X 330TSI, produced from April 2020 to 2022, represents a significant entry in Volkswagen’s expanding SUV lineup, primarily targeted at the Chinese automotive market. Positioned as a coupe-style CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), the Tayron X offered a more stylish alternative to the standard Tayron, blending practicality with a sportier aesthetic. This specific 330TSI variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), occupied a mid-range position within the Tayron X portfolio, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and features. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, shared with models like the Tiguan and Skoda Karoq.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tayron |
| Generation | Tayron X |
| Type (Engine) | 330TSI (186 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | April, 2020 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, CUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 186 Hp @ 4100-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 93.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / DPL |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 525 l (18.54 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4626 mm (182.13 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1662 mm (65.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tayron X 330TSI is the EA888 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, specifically the DPL variant. This engine is a mainstay in the Volkswagen Group, known for its robust construction and tuning potential. The DPL version features direct fuel injection, a single turbocharger with an intercooler, and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides. This configuration allows for a broad torque curve and responsive power delivery. The engine produces 186 horsepower between 4,100 and 6,000 rpm, and a healthy 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a timing chain, contributing to its longevity. Paired with the engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG). This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. The DSG unit is known for its efficiency and responsiveness, although earlier iterations of the DSG were sometimes prone to reliability issues, later versions, like the one found in the Tayron X, are generally considered more dependable.
Driving Characteristics
The 186 hp and 320 Nm of torque provide the Tayron X 330TSI with adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.7 seconds. While not a sports car, the combination of the turbocharged engine and the DSG transmission delivers a responsive and engaging driving experience. The DSG transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing quick acceleration when needed. Compared to lower-powered Tayron variants, the 330TSI offers a noticeable improvement in performance, particularly when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to a hypothetical six-speed automatic, the seven-speed DSG provides closer gear ratios, improving both acceleration and fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a lighter vehicle weight, further enhancing efficiency, but it can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tayron X 330TSI typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of fabric and leatherette, with higher trims offering full leather options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, adaptive cruise control, and parking assist features. The exterior styling of the Tayron X featured a sloping roofline, distinctive alloy wheels, and LED headlights, differentiating it from the standard Tayron model.
Chassis & Braking
The Tayron X utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size is 235/50 R19, providing a good balance between grip and ride comfort. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Tayron X 330TSI was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and responsive performance. Critics noted that the 330TSI variant offered a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday driving. Compared to the lower-powered 1.4 TSI variants, the 330TSI provided a more satisfying driving experience. However, some reviewers pointed out that the front-wheel-drive configuration limited its off-road capabilities. Fuel economy figures of around 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) were considered competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Tayron X, including the 330TSI variant, represents Volkswagen’s attempt to cater to the growing demand for stylish and practical SUVs in the Chinese market. While not widely available outside of China, the Tayron X showcased Volkswagen’s design and engineering capabilities. The EA888 engine and DSG transmission are proven and reliable powertrains, and well-maintained examples of the Tayron X 330TSI are expected to offer years of dependable service. On the used car market, these vehicles are generally sought after for their combination of features, performance, and value.
