Two‑Wheel Drive Tugella: A Fresh Light on a Russian Market Favorite
The Tugella’s appeal isn’t new, but its configuration in Russia comes with a notable twist. In China, the model known as Xingyue has already offered a front‑wheel drive variant, yet this setup has rarely, if ever, appeared in Russia before now. The shift toward a front‑wheel drive version signals a broader strategy to broaden the model’s appeal by focusing on efficiency, cost, and city‑driven practicality rather than raw off‑road capability.
Under the hood, the two‑liter engine powering the front‑wheel drive Tugella delivers a different balance of performance. In the single‑drive version, horsepower is trimmed from 238 to 200 hp, while torque remains at 350 Nm. This makes the lighter two‑wheel drive model an attractive option for buyers who value lower running costs and a more agile daily drive. The lighter curb weight—about 70 kg less than the all‑wheel drive variant—translates into improved efficiency and potentially brisker acceleration in city conditions and regular traffic flows.
Historically, Russia saw the idea of a monodrive Tugella certified several years ago, but those models never made it to the market. The current strategy combines the facelift with a two‑wheel drive option, creating a more accessible version of the crossover. That combination could help Tugella stay competitive on the sales charts, offering customers a compelling balance of price, efficiency, and practicality without sacrificing the modern styling and tech that define the model family.
The evolution toward a lighter, two‑wheel drive Tugella also aligns with broader automotive trends where automakers respond to consumer demand for lower purchase costs and reduced maintenance expenses. A front‑wheel drive layout typically provides better fuel economy and simpler mechanicals, which can translate into lower insurance costs and easier servicing. In markets where daily commuting and urban driving dominate, this variant may resonate strongly with buyers who prioritize reliability and value over extreme performance in challenging terrains.
Beyond the technical changes, the Tugella’s facelift keeps pace with contemporary design language and interior upgrades, ensuring that even the pared‑back variant maintains a premium feel. The combination of updated styling, modern infotainment, and safety features forms a cohesive package that supports the vehicle’s credibility in a competitive segment. Customers can expect a refined driving experience that emphasizes comfort, quiet operation, and intuitive controls, all of which contribute to a satisfying ownership profile even for shorter trips and longer commutes alike.
From a market perspective, the introduction of a two‑wheel drive Tugella can help the lineup cover more consumer needs. For some buyers, the key considerations are upfront cost, payload handling, and real‑world fuel efficiency rather than dual‑drivetrain prowess. The lighter configuration, paired with the facelift, makes the Tugella more accessible to a wider audience while preserving the brand’s design DNA and feature set. This approach is particularly relevant in regions where road conditions and climate variations influence vehicle preferences, ensuring the Tugella remains practical and relevant across different seasons and urban environments.
In summary, the Tugella’s new front‑wheel drive option brings a strategic balance of efficiency, affordability, and ongoing modernization. The power reduction to 200 hp, the consistent 350 Nm of torque, and the lighter weight collectively deliver a more economical yet still compelling driving proposition. For the brand, this is about expanding appeal without compromising the core attributes that have defined the model. For prospective buyers, it’s an invitation to consider a refined, cost‑conscious crossover that still embodies the style and practicality that Tugella has come to symbolize in today’s automotive landscape.
Vote – win Lada!
Participants are invited to take part in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix vote and help pick the best car novelties of the year. As a token of appreciation for the time spent, three prizes will be raffled among survey respondents. There is an opportunity for everyone who completes the questionnaire to participate in the draw before the stated deadline, with details provided in the official survey instructions.
Complete the 2023 Driving Grand Prix questionnaire