Volkswagen Taigun is the next big launch under VW Group’s India 2.0 strategy after the Skoda Kushaq. As the German carmaker gears up for the market launch in September, we have now learnt that Volkswagen will open bookings for the Taigun in India by mid-August 2021.
- Volkswagen Taigun is a sister model to the Skoda Kushaq
- Will be offered with two petrol engine options
- Bookings to commence by mid-August
Volkswagen Taigun: design and features
As both the Volkswagen Taigun and the Skoda Kushaq are based on the same platform, several body parts such as the doors, roof and the glasshouse are identical on both SUVs. However, the Taigun still has its own unique identity. The front fascia is distinguished with its single piece headlights, two slat chrome grille and chrome insert on the lower part of the bumper. At the rear, the tail light cluster runs across the width of the tailgate and there’s even more chrome garnishing down on the bumper below.
On the inside, while the switchgear may be identical on both SUVs, the Taigun has a more minimalistic interior theme with the infotainment screen integrated in the dashboard and a different design for the AC vents. The trim elements on the dashboard will also be notably different.
In terms of features, top-spec variants of the SUV will get a 10-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the My Volkswagen connect app, automatic climate control, USB Type-C ports, wireless charging pad, and much more. Where the Taigun will go one up over the Kushaq is with its digital instrument cluster. On the safety front, the Taigun will come with six airbags, ESC (standard across all trims), tyre pressure deflation warning, and ISOFIX child seat mounts, to name a few.
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Volkswagen Taigun: engine and gearbox options
The Volkswagen Taigun will be offered with two turbo-petrol engine options from the TSI engine family. The range will start with a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that produces 115hp and 175Nm of torque. There will also be a larger 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that’s good for producing 150hp and 250Nm. Both engines will come with a 6-speed manual gearbox option as standard. However, they will get different automatic gearbox options, with the 1.0 TSI getting a 6-speed torque converter and the 1.5 TSI getting a 7-speed DCT automatic. The powertrain options are identical to that of the Kushaq.
Volkswagen Taigun: competition check
The Volkswagen Taigun will be positioned in the midsize SUV segment, which is one of the hottest segments in terms of demand right now. It will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks and its own sibling, the Skoda Kushaq. It is, however, worth mentioning that the Taigun will be considerably smaller than the likes of the Creta or Seltos, but will still have the longest wheelbase in the segment. Prices for the Taigun are expected to range between Rs 10.50 lakh – Rs 17 lakh, similar to the Kushaq.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Suraj Viswanathan
Hormazd Sorabjee
