The Volkswagen Teramont X 2.0T (186 hp) with the Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) was a model offered between 2019 and 2021, primarily targeted at the Chinese automotive market. Positioned as a more stylish and sporty derivative of the larger Teramont SUV, the Teramont X aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a coupe-like SUV with a balance of performance and practicality. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the Teramont X lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base engine options while remaining more accessible than the higher-output versions. It represented Volkswagen’s attempt to cater to the growing demand for crossover SUVs with a more dynamic design and driving experience in China.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Teramont X |
| Generation | Teramont X |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T (186 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 186 Hp @ 4100-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1910-1945 kg (4210.83 – 4287.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 509 l (17.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1719 l (60.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Height | 1719 mm (67.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2980 mm (117.32 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Teramont X 2.0T DSG is the EA888 DPL engine, a 1.984-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a member of the widely used EA888 family, known for its robust construction and tuning potential. The ‘DPL’ designation indicates a specific iteration optimized for the Chinese market. It features direct fuel injection, which improves combustion efficiency and power output, and an intercooled turbocharger to mitigate turbo lag and enhance performance. The engine produces 186 horsepower at 4,100-6,000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. This torque curve provides good low-end responsiveness, crucial for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), offering quick and smooth gear changes. The DSG transmission contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency by allowing for rapid shifts and maintaining the engine in its optimal power band.
Driving Characteristics
The 186 hp 2.0T engine, coupled with the 7-speed DSG, delivers a respectable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.3 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 124 mph. While not a sports car, the Teramont X 2.0T offers sufficient power for confident highway merging and overtaking. The DSG transmission provides quick and precise shifts, enhancing the overall driving feel. Compared to lower-powered engine options, the 2.0T provides a noticeable improvement in responsiveness and overall performance. However, it doesn’t match the outright acceleration of higher-output versions available in the Teramont X range. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to good fuel economy, but it can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, with lower gears providing quick acceleration and higher gears optimized for cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Teramont X 2.0T DSG typically came equipped with a range of standard features, including automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth or leatherette, depending on the specific trim package. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Teramont X 2.0T utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Teramont X 2.0T DSG was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and decent performance. Critics noted that the 2.0T engine offered a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. Compared to the base engine options, the 2.0T provided a more engaging driving experience. However, some reviewers felt that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its competitors. Fuel economy figures of around 30.5 US mpg combined were competitive for its class. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the EA888 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Teramont X 2.0T DSG, while a relatively short-lived model, represents an important step in Volkswagen’s strategy to cater to the specific demands of the Chinese automotive market. The EA888 engine continues to be a popular choice in Volkswagen vehicles worldwide, known for its reliability and performance. On the used car market, the Teramont X 2.0T DSG offers a compelling value proposition, providing a stylish and well-equipped SUV at a reasonable price. Its combination of comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency makes it a practical choice for buyers seeking a versatile crossover SUV.
