The Taigun is going to be a crucial product for Volkswagen India because it will mark the German carmaker’s entry into the boiling hot compact-SUV segment. It was first previewed at the Auto Expo 2020 and its near production-ready avatar was also showcased earlier this year. At least on paper, the Taigun does have what it takes to make the reigning Korean supremacy worry a little.
Launch timeline and other details
We have been waiting for so long to hear from Volkswagen India regarding its launch timeline and now, the company has made it official that the Taigun will go into production on August 18, 2021. And we reckon the compact SUV will go on sale towards the end of next month. As we inch closer to its official launch, certain Volkswagen dealerships have begun accepting unofficial bookings for the compact SUV. The SUV can be booked for a token amount of Rs 10,000.
Design
Starting with the dimensions, the wheelbase of the Taigun is more than that of its chief rivals, the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos but its Korean counterparts are longer and taller. Although not specified officially, the ground clearance should be around 200mm and the boot space is 385L. In terms of design, the typical VW lines are hard to miss. The front features a solid, squared-off fascia with sharp creases on the bonnet. To further enhance the SUV stance, the Taigun features black body cladding on the sides.
At the rear, the main highlight is indeed the connected LED light strip that runs across in addition to C-shaped lovely looking taillights. This car also features the new VW logo.
Features
One of the biggest highlights of the cabin is a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The infotainment screen is also going to benefit from My Volkswagen connect app that could access the connected car features. Another key feature in the interior is the digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit), something its sibling the Skoda Kushaq misses out on.
The vehicle will also get Type C and regular USB charging ports for the better convenience of the occupants. Moreover, you get a multi-function leather sport steering wheel along with an electric sunroof. Now, coming to the safety features, the Volkswagen Taigun will get up to 6 airbags, ESC, 3 headrests at rear, 3-point seat belts, ISOFIX and adjustable headrest for all the occupants. In addition, you get rear park distance control along with bits like Hill-hold control and tyre pressure deflation warning system.
Specs
In terms of the mechanicals, the Taigun draws power from a choice of 2 turbo-petrol engines. Firstly, a 1.0L, 3cyl turbo-petrol TSI engine that will deliver 115PS of peak power and 175Nm of peak torque which also does duties on the polo, rapid and the Vento, and will be mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter unit.
Also read: 2022 Volkswagen Polo GTI Facelift Breaks Cover
Secondly, a 1.5L, 4cyl TSI turbo petrol engine that puts out 150PS of peak power and 250Nm of peak torque, which also sits under the hood of the T-Roc. This is mated to a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed DCT gearbox as standard. Both these engines also sit under the hood of the Skoda Kushaq.