TagAz Tager 2.3 (150 Hp)

The TagAz Tager 2.3 (150 Hp) represents a significant, albeit niche, entry into the off-road vehicle segment, primarily serving markets in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Produced by the Taganrog Automobile Plant (TagAZ) in Russia, this vehicle was manufactured between 2008 and 2012. It is widely recognized as a rebadged and locally assembled version of the first-generation SsangYong Korando, a rugged South Korean SUV known for its durable, no-nonsense approach to off-road capability. The TagAz Tager aimed to provide a robust and affordable all-terrain solution for consumers seeking a utilitarian vehicle capable of handling challenging road conditions and diverse landscapes, which are common in its target markets. Its design philosophy emphasized mechanical resilience and straightforward functionality over luxurious appointments or cutting-edge technology, fitting perfectly into the role of a dependable workhorse or an adventurous recreational vehicle.

The TagAz Tager: A Market Overview and Heritage

The TagAz Tager emerged during a period when the Russian automotive industry was expanding its production capabilities, often through partnerships and licensing agreements with established foreign manufacturers. The collaboration with SsangYong allowed TagAZ to quickly introduce a proven off-road platform to its domestic market under its own branding. The Tager’s lineage from the SsangYong Korando meant it inherited a reputation for ruggedness and reliability, qualities highly valued by drivers in regions with less developed infrastructure. Unlike many car models developed for Western European or North American markets, the Tager was engineered with a focus on durability, ease of maintenance, and strong performance in adverse conditions, rather than fuel efficiency or sophisticated creature comforts. This positioning made the TagAz Tager 2.3 (150 Hp) a practical choice for a specific demographic, including government agencies, utility companies, and private buyers who frequently ventured off paved roads.

While never officially imported into the United States, understanding the TagAz Tager provides insight into global automotive trends and regional market demands. Its presence underscores the diverse strategies employed by manufacturers to meet local needs, adapting global platforms for specific economic and environmental contexts. The Tager’s production run, though relatively short, solidified its place as a recognizable and functional off-road vehicle in its home territories, embodying a blend of international engineering and local manufacturing prowess.

Powertrain and Performance of the TagAz Tager 2.3 (150 Hp)

At the heart of the TagAz Tager 2.3 (150 Hp) lies a robust 2.3-liter (2295 cubic centimeters or 140.05 cubic inches) inline-four gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated unit was designed for reliability and consistent power delivery, crucial attributes for an off-road vehicle. It produces a maximum power output of 150 horsepower at 6200 revolutions per minute, providing ample power for both on-road cruising and challenging off-road maneuvers. The engine’s power-per-liter ratio stands at 65.4 horsepower per liter, indicating a healthy, though not aggressively tuned, output for its displacement.

More critical for its off-road character is the torque delivery. The engine generates 210 Newton-meters (approximately 154.89 pound-feet) of torque at a relatively low 2800 rpm. This low-end torque peak is a distinct advantage for off-road driving, allowing the vehicle to climb steep grades, traverse uneven terrain, and pull through mud or sand without requiring excessive engine speed. This characteristic ensures that the driver has immediate and usable pulling power precisely when it’s most needed, enhancing the Tager’s capability in demanding situations.

The engine features a front, longitudinal layout, a common configuration for rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles, which allows for better weight distribution and accommodates a robust drivetrain. With four cylinders arranged in an inline configuration, the engine benefits from inherent balance and simplicity. It utilizes a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, a setup that generally improves engine breathing and efficiency compared to older two-valve designs, contributing to both power and fuel economy for its era. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port manifold injection system, a reliable and widely used method for precise fuel metering. The compression ratio of 10:1 further aids in efficient combustion and power generation. With a cylinder bore of 90.9 mm (3.58 inches) and a piston stroke of 88.4 mm (3.48 inches), the engine is slightly oversquare, which typically favors higher revs and horsepower, yet its tuning prioritizes torque for its intended application. The engine oil capacity is 6 liters (6.34 US quarts), indicating a substantial lubrication system suitable for the stresses of off-road operation.

Design Philosophy and Features

The TagAz Tager’s design is a direct reflection of its purpose as a capable off-road vehicle. Its body type is unequivocally an “Off-road vehicle,” characterized by a sturdy, functional aesthetic that prioritizes utility over sleek aerodynamics or urban sophistication. The exterior design, largely inherited from the first-generation SsangYong Korando, features a boxy, muscular stance with prominent wheel arches and a high ground clearance, visually asserting its rugged capabilities. Depending on the specific configuration, the Tager was available in various body styles, including a three-door hardtop and a five-door version, catering to different needs for passenger and cargo capacity.

Key design elements include robust bumpers, often unpainted or with minimal adornment, designed to withstand minor impacts and scrapes common in off-road environments. The vehicle’s overall proportions contribute to excellent approach and departure angles, essential for navigating challenging terrain without scraping the undercarriage. Large windows provide good visibility, an important safety feature when maneuvering in complex off-road situations. The interior of the TagAz Tager focuses on practicality and durability. Materials chosen for the cabin are typically robust and easy to clean, capable of enduring the wear and tear associated with outdoor activities and heavy use. While luxury features were sparse, the emphasis was on providing a comfortable yet functional environment for occupants, with straightforward controls and ample storage.

Safety features for a vehicle of this era and market segment typically included fundamental systems such as anti-lock brakes (ABS) and perhaps dual front airbags. The primary safety emphasis, however, often stemmed from the vehicle’s robust, ladder-frame chassis construction, which provides inherent structural rigidity and protection in the event of a collision or rollover. The Tager’s design ethos was clearly about providing a dependable and resilient mode of transportation, engineered to tackle the demands of its operational environment with minimal fuss and maximum reliability.

Technical Specifications