Volkswagen Tera SUV Unveiled For Brazilian Market; India Launch Soon?

In a public display during Brazil’s Carnival festivities, Volkswagen presented its newest entry-level SUV, the Tera, at Apoteose Square in Rio de Janeiro’s Sambadrome. While not yet an official launch, the reveal marked the first time the vehicle was shown without camouflage. 

Developed entirely in Brazil by Volkswagen’s design team under the leadership of José Carlos Pavone, the Tera is set to compete with segment rivals such as the Fiat Pulse and Nissan Kicks. The SUV will be produced at VW’s Taubaté plant and is expected to be priced between R$100,000 (approx. ₹14.82 lakh) and R$140,000 (approx. ₹20 lakh). Volkswagen do Brasil President Ciro Possobom stated that the model would have "competitive prices," without disclosing specific figures.

Also Read: Volkswagen Tera subcompact SUV Teased Ahead Of Brazil Debut: Will It Come To India?

The Tera will be positioned below the Nivus and T-Cross in Volkswagen’s portfolio and could potentially replace some versions of the Polo. Built on the MQB-A0 platform, the model is anticipated to have dimensions similar to the Polo, which features a 2,566 mm wheelbase and a total length of 4,074 mm. 

The new Tera adopts Volkswagen’s current SUV design language, drawing similarities with models such as the latest Tiguan and the updated Taos available in North America. The front is marked by LED headlights and daytime running lights forming a split lighting signature. Notably, Volkswagen opted against an illuminated grille, instead incorporating a chrome strip between the lights. 

A large honeycomb-patterned air intake dominates the front bumper, flanked by two prominent side air intakes. Unlike some other VW models, the Tera does not include fog lights. Unique rear-view mirrors, not shared with the Polo or Nivus, further distinguish the vehicle.

At the rear, the SUV features LED taillights connected by a black trim piece with silver accents, a design element seen on the Nivus, T-Cross, and the new European Tiguan. The taillights themselves showcase LED strip detailing. The model displayed at the Sambadrome featured 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels with a sporty aesthetic, though more economical variants may include steel wheels with hubcaps.

Also Read: Volkswagen Tera Spied Globally For The First Time; India Launch Soon?

Inside, the Tera integrates design elements inspired by Volkswagen’s ID. electric vehicle lineup. A raised multimedia system dominates the dashboard, which features a distinct styling approach. A 100 per cent digital instrument cluster will be included, alongside VW’s Play Connect system, enabling full smartphone connectivity. Additional features include wireless smartphone charging and ambient lighting across the dashboard.

Although Volkswagen has not officially released engine specifications, indications suggest the Tera will be powered by the 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine from the Polo, producing 114 bhp and 165 Nm of torque. This output differentiates it from the more powerful Nivus and T-Cross, which generate 126 bhp. The SUV is expected to feature a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

The Tera first appeared in September 2024, under heavy camouflage, during the Rock in Rio music festival. At that time, it was displayed under an LED dome that partially revealed its design. Now, with its exterior fully unveiled, the SUV is set for an official launch, anticipated around May 2025.