Today, Europe’s leading car manufacturer, Volkswagen, has finally unveiled the production version of its highly anticipated SUV, Taigun. The SUV was originally revealed in its pre-production avatar at the 2020 Auto Expo and was scheduled to launch later that year, however, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the launch had to be delayed. Now that the wraps have been taken off, let’s have a look at what’s new.
MQB A0 IN Platform
Volkswagen’s MQB platform is one of the most versatile and renowned platforms across the world. However, the carmaker has slightly modified this platform and created an indigenized version for India, called the MQB A0 IN. This slightly modified platform ensures that the Volkswagen Taigun can be comfortably made in India with almost 95% localization.
What makes this platform unique from its predecessors?
Specially designed to meet the new emission requirements in India.
Enhanced safety for all occupants.
Improve production efficiency.
Upto 95% localization.
Cost-efficient design.
Design
The Taigun follows Volkswagen’s latest design language, yet it manages to stand apart from the rest of the brand’s lineup of SUVs. The front bumper gets a chrome grille and a chrome-plated front wing for an aggressive and sporty look, while the rear bumper gets a simple and passive look. The front fenders get a GT badge. Despite being smaller in dimensions compared to its rivals, the Taigun gets an elevated bonnet and 17-inch Alloy wheels to enhance the overall silhouette of the SUV and make it look bigger. The front gets all-LED headlamps and DRLs, while the rear gets a new connected taillight that looks very sleek and attractive.
Engine and Transmission
Since the Taigun is based on the MQB A0 IN platform, it shares most of its parts and specifications with the recently unveiled Skoda Kushaq. Hence, the Taigun will be available with the same engine and gearbox options as its Skoda sibling and will also miss out on the diesel engine.
The available transmission options are:
A 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre, turbo petrol engine producing over 115 PS of power and 175 Nm of peak torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter.
A 4-cylinder, 1.5-litre, turbo petrol engine producing over 150 PS of power and 250 Nm of peak torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG.
Features
Interior highlights:
Ventilated Leather front seats
Ambient Lighting
Electric Sunroof
Digital Cockpit with Active Info Display
Multi-functional leather-wrapped steering
Connectivity features:
24.5cm Touchscreen Infotainment
My Volkswagen Connect App
Apple Carplay
Android Auto
Type C USB charging port
Safety features:
Electronic Stability Control
Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning
3 Head-Restraints at Rear
Rear Park Distance Control
Hill Hold Control
Up to 6 Airbags
Prices for the Taigun will be announced at the time of launch, which is expected to happen in the next couple of months. Once launched, the Taigun will be taking on the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Nissan Kicks, Renault Duster and its very own sibling, the Skoda Kushaq in the mid-size SUV segment in India. The SUV is expected to be priced at around INR 10 - 16 Lakh (ex-showroom, India). Bookings for this SUV will begin shortly.
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