It is no secret that Skoda is leading the Volkswagen Group’s India Plan 2.0; which includes local development of platform, engines and products. Volkswagen had announced to launch 4 SUVs in the country in the next 2-3 years. VW had introduced the T-ROC mid-sized premium SUV and the Tiguan AllSpace in 2020. Both models have received positive response from buyers and are sold out for 2020.
The company will launch the Taigun mid-sized SUV in the first half of 2021. The fourth SUV from VW stable is yet to be announced; however, the 5-seater Tiguan could be introduced in our market. Previous reports suggest that Volkswagen is also considering a sub-4 meter SUV to rival the likes of the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport and others.
Speaking to Business Insider, Steffen Knapp, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India said that Volkswagen are pretty much on track with 2020 plans whether new car or pre-owned car sales. The company plans to achieve target of 150 sales outlets across the country. He further said, “We’ve launched two until now (Tiguan Allspace & T-Roc) and are successful in terms of retail. Next year, will mark the year of the Volkswagen Taigun and we’re preparing extensively for its launch in 2021.”
Volkswagen claims that the new Taigun will re-define the mid-sized SUV segment in terms of styling, technology and safety. The new model is based on the heavily localised MQB AO IN platform, which also underpins the upcoming Skoda Vision IN based SUV. The new model will have a localisation level of up to 93%.
The Taigun mid-sized SUV will be offered with 2 engine options – a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol and a 1.5-litre TSI EVO. The new 1.0L petrol engine will power the brand’s all products under ‘India 2.0’ project. This engine produces up to 115bhp of power and 200Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic.
The 1.5L TSI EVO engine churns out 148bhp of power and 250Nm of torque. It will be offered in a single 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. This engine comes with cylinder deactivation technology, which allows the motor to deactivate up to 2 cylinders by sensing the load on the engine. This will help to achieve higher fuel efficiency.
Not just Taigun, Volkswagen will also launch an all-new mid-sized sedan as a replacement for the ageing Rapid sedan. It will be powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with manual and automatic option. The new sedan will rival the likes of the Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and the Honda City.
Video – VW Taigun First Look
