The TagAz Tager, specifically the 3.2i (220 Hp) 4×4 Automatic variant produced between 2008 and 2012, represented a significant offering in the off-road vehicle segment for its primary market, predominantly Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Manufactured by the Taganrog Automobile Plant (TagAZ) in Russia under license from SsangYong, the Tager was essentially a rebadged version of the first-generation SsangYong Korando. This particular iteration, with its potent 3.2-liter engine and robust four-wheel-drive system, was positioned as a capable and durable SUV, designed to tackle challenging terrains and provide practical utility in regions where ruggedness and reliability were paramount. Unlike many contemporary SUVs that leaned towards car-like comfort and on-road dynamics, the TagAz Tager maintained its traditional body-on-frame construction and serious off-road credentials, appealing to consumers seeking a no-nonsense vehicle for adventure or demanding rural conditions.
Engine and Performance: The Heart of the TagAz Tager
Powering the TagAz Tager 3.2i 4×4 Automatic was a formidable 3.2-liter inline-six gasoline engine, a naturally aspirated unit designed for consistent power delivery and durability. This engine produced a healthy 220 horsepower at 6500 revolutions per minute (rpm), making it one of the more powerful options in its class at the time. Torque output stood at 226.43 lb.-ft. (307 Nm) at 4700 rpm, providing ample pulling power crucial for off-road excursions and towing capabilities. The engine’s configuration as an inline-six, coupled with a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and four valves per cylinder, contributed to its smooth operation and efficient combustion. Fuel was delivered via a multi-port manifold injection system, a proven technology for reliable fuel atomization and mixture control.
Mated to this potent powerplant was a 4-speed automatic transmission, a choice that emphasized ease of use and robustness over outright performance or modern gear count. While a 4-speed automatic might seem modest by today’s standards, it was a reliable and well-suited option for an off-road vehicle where smooth power transfer and durability under stress were priorities. The drivetrain featured a full-time all-wheel-drive (4×4) system, ensuring maximum traction across various surfaces, from paved roads to challenging unpaved trails. This robust setup allowed the Tager to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 10.4 seconds, with a top speed reaching 105.63 mph (170 km/h). These figures, while not sports-car-like, were more than adequate for its intended purpose as a go-anywhere utility vehicle.
Fuel economy for the TagAz Tager 3.2i reflected its substantial engine size and 4×4 capabilities. The combined fuel consumption was rated at 14.8 US miles per gallon (15.9 l/100 km), with urban driving yielding approximately 11.8 US mpg (19.9 l/100 km) and extra-urban conditions improving to 17.3 US mpg (13.6 l/100 km). These figures, while not class-leading in terms of efficiency, were typical for a rugged, gasoline-powered off-road vehicle of its era and size. The engine’s substantial displacement of 195.21 cubic inches (3199 cm3) and a compression ratio of 10:1 further underscored its design for power and endurance.
Design and Features of the TagAz Tager
The TagAz Tager retained the distinctive, rugged styling of its SsangYong Korando predecessor, characterized by its compact yet imposing stature. As a 3-door off-road vehicle with seating for five, it offered a blend of practicality and adventurous spirit. The body-on-frame construction provided exceptional rigidity and durability, essential for traversing difficult terrain and withstanding the rigors of off-road use. Its dimensions, measuring 170.47 inches in length, 72.48 inches in width, and 72.44 inches in height, coupled with a relatively short wheelbase of 97.64 inches
