Volkswagen Tera Earns Safety Rating of 5 star, Set to Shake Up India’s Compact SUV Segment

Auto News: Volkswagen is gearing up to launch its new subcompact SUV, the Tera, in India following the success of Skoda Kushaq. 5-star safety rating  was earned by The Tera recently  from Latin NCAP, signaling top-notch protection. Built on the MQB A0 platform, it features six airbags, ESC, AEB, and ISOFIX mounts. With an expected price range of ₹9–15 lakh, it will compete with cars like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Brezza. While launch details are awaited, the Tera promises strong safety, modern tech, and urban appeal.

Introducing to the Tera: Volkswagen’s Compact Crossover

Volkswagen is gearing up to compete in India’s booming subcompact SUV market with its new global offering — the Tera. Designed on the proven MQB‑A0 platform (shared with the Skoda Kylaq), the Brazil‑built SUV was recently showcased during the Rio Carnival. Although final details on the India-spec version remain under wraps, reports indicate VW is poised to launch it by early 2026. 

5-Star Latin NCAP Score Safety Standout: 

In a recent Latin NCAP crash test, the Volkswagen Tera achieved an impressive 5-star rating: 89.9% for adult occupant protection, 87.3% for child safety, 75.8% pedestrian safety, and 84.8% in safety assist systems. Equipped with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, ISOFIX mounts, and ADAS, the Tera stands out as a safety-first option in its class — overtaking rivals like Nexon, Brezza, and Venue. 

Design and Features of the Global SUV DNA

VW SUVs like the Tiguan and Taos giving it the drawing cues from larger, LED DRLs, the Tera sports stylish, blacked‑out pillars, a bold grille, and sleek alloy wheels. Inside, a modern cabin features a freestanding 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital driver display, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and premium materials — mirroring the very well - received Kylaq.

Performance: Urban Capability and 1.0-Litre Turbo 

The India-spec Tera is expected to come with a punchy yet fuel-efficient 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine, outputting around 114 bhp and 178 Nm torque. Available with manual and automatic gearboxes, this powertrain is tuned for city use while offering enough to get a perfect lift, making it a strong contender against Nexon and Sonet. 

Get into the Launch & Market

With pricing projected between ₹9–15 lakh and a likely launch in early 2026, the Tera is poised to disrupt the segment dominated by Brezza, Nexon, Sonet, and Venue. Asked why VW is entering the segment now, insiders suggest the strong performance of the Skoda Kylaq and consumer demand for premium yet compact SUVs make the timing ideal — though VW still hasn’t committed to an exact launch date. 

The Volkswagen Tera, with its top-tier safety credentials and refreshingly bold design, is shaping up to be a formidable entry in India’s crowded compact SUV market. Its combination of advanced tech, robust build, and competitive pricing could make it a game-changer — reviving VW’s fortunes in the sub-4m space.