German auto giant Volkswagen has finally revealed the production-spec version of its most awaited made-for-India compact SUV, the Taigun. After Skoda Kushaq, this will be the second product from the VW Group's that will be based on the MQB-AO-IN platform with 95% localisation. It is expected to be launched around July-August 2021.
2021 Volkswagen Taigun – Design & Dimensions
The final version of the Volkswagen Taigun looks similar to its concept model which was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. In fact, it shares its design cues with global-spec T-ROC and the Tiguan. It is well-proportioned and features a neat design with understated lines. Understanding the Indian lovingness to the chromes, the brand has given tones of chrome finishings to give it a premium feel. Interestingly, the Taigun has more chrome than you’ll find in any other Volkswagen car. It features a chrome slatted grille at the front flanked by LED projector headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, giving it a Tiguan-like vibe. The blacked-out sporty bumper with large air intake also gets a Rajputi styled chrome moustache, adding to its macho appeal.
The side profile looks somewhat similar to the Skoda Kushaq, featuring the same doors, sharp shoulder line and sloping roofline. In fact, its dimensions are also similar to the Skoda Kushaq. Unlike its concept version, it doesn't feature the honeycomb mesh decal on the C-pillar. Even the alloys have been downsized from 19-inches to 17 units while preserving the same design. There is also black cladding along the bottom edge of the Taigun.
Around the back, the VW Taigun gets a signature C-shaped LED taillamps with a width spanning LED light bar. Like the front, the rear also sports a blacked-out bumper with a flashy chrome bar and silver skid plate.
Volkswagen will also offer a GT variant for the Taigun that will come with minor cosmetic differences such as red brake callipers, red contrast stitching, GT badging and red ambient lighting.
Volkswagen Taigun – Interior & Features
Again, the interior design of the Taigun resembles a lot of its concept. However, it misses-out the contrast colour panels on the dash. Instead, it gets dark grey highlights along with a flat-bottom steering wheel and a 10-inch dash integrated touchscreen infotainment system, dominating the cabin with its presence. In terms of features, the Taigun comes with all whistle & bells such as connected car tech, Apple Carplay & Android Auto smartphone connectivity support, digital driver's display (missing in the Kushaq), auto climate control with rear AC vents, ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, electric sunroof, type C charging points, a 6-speaker sound system, keyless entry with engine start-stop button, and many more.
Passenger's safety, on the other hand, will be taken care of by up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold assists, ISOFIX child seat anchorage, electronic stability control, and rear parking sensors with a rear-view camera, etc.
Powertrain
The Taigun compact SUV shares its mechanicals with the Skoda Kushaq. Hence, it gets two turbocharged petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder and 1.5-litre 4-cylinder units. The 1.5-litre engine will also get active cylinder tech which shuts off two cylinders based on driving inputs to increase fuel efficiency. Here have a look at their specifications: –
Engine | 1.0-litre TSI | 1.5-litre TSI EVO |
Max Power | 115PS | 150PS |
Max Torque | 175Nm | 250Nm |
Transmission options | 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic | 6-speed manual / 7-speed DSG automatic |
Expected Price Range
Expect Volkswagen Taigun to be priced between Rs 9.5 lakh and Rs 18 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it in the competition with Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Renault Duster, Nissan Kicks, Maruti S-Cross and its cousin Skoda Kushaq.