Head to Head

In this round of Head To Head, we pit two truly unique and premium SUVs from Germany and China. Flying the flag for Germany is the Volkswagen Tharu 300 TSI DSG SEL. Representing China is the GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style. Both these SUVs stand out from the crowd, but who has the specs that come out on top?

For styling, the Volkswagen is as teutonic as it can be with simple and clean lines from the front to the rear. Its angular design means business, while its illuminated grille adds character to its front end. Special exterior features include LED lights at the front and rear, the blacked-out trims, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a large panoramic sunroof.

Size-wise, the Tharu measures 4,458mm long, 1,841mm wide, and 1,632mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,680mm.

In stark contrast, the GAC is all about slashes and deep cut lines throughout its bodywork. The GS3 Emzoom R-Style projects a sportier image with its sharp headlights and a distinct exhaust pipe arrangement. If it's still not enough, the stripes on the grille and orange highlights will surely grab attention. LED lighting and a large panoramic sunroof are standard, while the R-Style adds an aggressive body kit and 19-inch alloy wheels

In terms of dimensions, the GS3 Emzoom is a touch smaller than the Tharu at 4,446mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,600mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,650mm.

The exterior themes of these SUVs are also reflected on the inside. In the case of the Tharu, it's flat and smooth surfaces that frees up more space and gives the impressions of airiness. Meanwhile, its plush leather seats, and high-grade materials are what one expects from a German car.

Front occupants of the Tharu are greeted by a high-definition 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay is standard in the Tharu, as well a six-speak sound system, Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging.

In terms of practicality, the Tharu has a cargo capacity of 455 liters that can be expanded to 1,543 liters by folding the second row.

Moving to the GS3 Emzoom, there are sweeping curves and aggressive lines strewn all over the cabin. The two-tone interior shows GAC's more playful side with contrasting colors, while the 7-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system makes this SUV look even more high-tech.

Its audio system matches the There's speaker count at six. Entertainment is provided by Apple CarPlay, Android Auto Mirroring, Bluetooth, and even a video system

For cargo space, the GS3 Emzoom can hold 341 liters behind the second row and go as much as 1,271 with the seats folded.

These SUVs aren't lacking in safety features. Traction control, stability control, and tire pressure monitoring are fitted to both cars, along with 360-degree view cameras, speed limiters, and parking sensors.

However, the GS3 Emzoom benefits from Advanced Driver Assist Systems. It includes adaptive cruise control with integrated cruise assist, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, high beam assist, and lane-keep assist.

The Volkswagen Tharu 280 TSI DSG SEL retails for ₱ 1,753,000. Meanwhile, the GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style is priced at ₱ 1,198,000. But whichever you choose, these SUVs are a statement for those who want to stand out from the crowd.