Last year, Volkswagen Group had announced an investment of Rs 8,000 crore in the ‘India 2.0’ project that will be headed by Skoda India. Under the new strategy, both carmakers will launch four models (2 from Skoda and 2 from Volkswagen) based on the India-specific MQB A0 platform.
The first model for Skoda and Volkswagen will be a mid-size SUV that will be put up against the new Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. While Skoda’s new compact SUV will be based on the Vision IN concept, the Volkswagen Taigun’s design has been inspired by the global-spec VW T-Cross SUV. Previewed at this year’s Auto Expo, both models are slated to launch early next year.
Talking about Skoda Vision IN, the compact SUV is likely to stay true to its concept by retaining signature chrome embellished grille, split projector headlamps, bold side creases and plastic cladding all around the body. Similar to the Skoda Kamiq, the Vision IN features a wide dashboard with virtual cockpit and crystalline elements on the gear selector button in the centre console.
Some of its key features will include a large, free-standing touchscreen infotainment system, automatic AC unit, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, rear air con vents, multiple airbags, speed alert, anti-lock braking system and so on.
The new Skoda compact SUV and Volkswagen Taigun will be made available with two petrol engine options – a 1.0L turbo (115bhp/200Nm) and a 1.5L turbo (148bhp/250Nm) unit. The latter one will be more powerful than the new Creta and Kia Seltos petrol that deliver 138bhp with 1.4L turbo petrol motor.
Reports suggest that the new Skoda and VW compact SUVs might also be offered with a CNG kit. Both manual and automatic gearboxes will be on offer. VW’s Taigun is likely to a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox with a 1.5L engine. Read – Skoda To Launch Honda City Rival In India
In order to boost the cost effectiveness, the carmakers aim to achieve a high-level of localization (over 90%). The Skoda Vision IN concept based compact SUV and Volkswagen Taigun are estimated to be priced from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom).
