Volkswagen is all set to mark its entry into the mid-size compact SUV segment with the Taigun that’s slated to arrive before Diwali, 2021. Here, it will face competition from the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos that’s currently ruling the segment. The upcoming Skoda Kushaq will also be put up against the new Volkswagen SUV.
Speaking to a media publication, Ashish Gupta, the Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, has said that the Volkswagen Taigun will be the “safest, strongly built SUV” in the segment. It will be “fun to drive and full of features”.
The new Volkswagen SUV will be designed on the MQB A0 IN platform that’s compatible to different body styles. The German carmaker will use the same architecture for its upcoming new global products. Ashish has also revealed that the company also plans to develop new platforms. It will also be the first production model to be rolled out under the brand’s India 2.0 Project.
Design and styling of the Volkswagen Taigun looks similar to the global-spec VW T-ROC. Though, it’s longer, wider and taller and has the segment’s largest wheelbase. Its length will be around 4.3 meters and wheelbase will be 2671mm long. The new Volkswagen mid-size SUV will be made available with two petrol engines – 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol and 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol.
While the naturally aspirated motor makes a top power of 147bhp and 250Nm of torque, the turbo petrol unit delivers power worth 120bhp and 200Nm of torque. The Taigun’s turbo petrol engine has cylinder deactivation technology that can deactivate up to 2 cylinders by sensing the load on the engine. This system will also help the carmaker achieve higher fuel efficiency. The compact SUV can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque convertor automatic transmission. A 7-speed DSG automatic will also be on offer.