Volkswagen is calling 2021, the year of Taigun because it holds that much importance for the German carmaker. Based on the MQB A0 IN platform, specifically developed for our market, it will share its underpinnings, body panels and powertrains with the upcoming Skoda Kushaq. Aiming to challenge the likes of Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, VW is pinning its hopes on Taigun to fetch some healthy sales volumes in our market. With heavy levels of localization with this platform and a lot of part-sharing measures, VW will come up with an aggressive price point for the Taigun which will try to appeal to the masses. Now, the mid-size SUV has been spotted testing on the roads which suggests that VW is in the final phase of development and we might actually see the official launch in the coming months. Let us remind ourselves what the Taigun will come equipped with.
Also read: 2021 VW Tiguan likely to launch in June 2021 – What to expect?
VW Taigun – Exterior Highlights
The Taigun features the typical modern design language from VW that is popular on the international models as well. The front is a bold look with LED Headlamps with DRLs. The front also looks kind of shiny with chrome on the front grille. The flat bonnet will allow for good visibility. The front bumpers are designed to give the SUV a sporty look. The alloys are also typical Volkswagen, in that, VW uses this alloys design on all of their international SUVs. The sides are accentuated by 17-inch alloy wheels, sharp creases and a boxy stance. The rear looks very modern with continuous LED tail lamps by a blacked-out glass bar that runs across the width of the car and there is a chrome bar on the rear bumper as well. This is in line with the design language that one can find in the European versions of T-Roc and T-Cross. The wheelbase is 2651mm which will be the largest in the segment, which translates into plenty of rear cabin space for the passengers.
Also read: VW Taigun vs Skoda Kushaq – Similarities and Differences!
VW Taigun – Interiors, Features and Safety
This time around, VW has equipped the mid-size SUV with a ton of modern features and conveniences. This is essential if it wants to woo the customers away from the feature-packed Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The interior of the Taigun looks modern and premium and have features like a 10-inch latest Digital Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Digital Virtual Cockpit Style Instrument Cluster with a customizable display, Type C USB charging port, My Volkswagen Connect Connected Tech, Ventilated Leather Front Seats, Ambient Lighting, Flat-bottom Steering Wheel with Audio Controls and Voice Recognition, Electric Sunroof and much more. The rear cabin space is huge because of the large wheelbase. On the safety front, there features like 6 Airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control, Tyre Pressure Deflation Warning, Rear Parking Distance Control, Hill Hold Control, 3-head Restraints at the rear, Child Seat Mounts, 3-point Seatbelts for the third passenger at the rear too and much more.
Also read: Skoda Kushaq deliveries to commence in July!
VW Taigun – Powertrains, Rivals and Expected Prices
There are two turbo petrol engines on offer with direct injection technology for more power and efficiency. The first one is a 1.0-litre TSI engine, making 115hp and 175Nm and the second, a 1.5-litre TSI engine making 150hp and 250Nm. The smaller engine will come with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission option and the larger engine will come with a 7-speed DSG (DCT) gearbox. VW has achieved around 95% localization with the Taigun, which translates to competitive prices which might be in the range of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 17 lakh, ex-showroom. These prices will be at par with the Korean rivals which are also the most popular in the segment. This includes Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos along with other competitors like Tata Harrier, MG Hector and the upcoming Skoda Kushaq.
Also read: Upcoming Cars and SUVs in 2021 – Rapid, Vento, Kushaq, Taigun, XUV700, HBX and more!
Image Source: Autocar India
