Skoda Kushaq-rivalling Volkswagen SUV Likely To Be Revealed This Week

• Volkswagen Taigun is the second model to be based on the VW Group’s MQB-A0-IN platform after the Kushaq.
• It will go on sale soon after the Kushaq debuts in June.
• Taigun will be offered only with two turbo-petrol engines like the Kushaq.
• Both engines could come with manual and automatic transmissions.
• Expected to be priced between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 17 lakh.

Volkswagen India might just spring a surprise at us this week by unveiling the Creta-rivalling production-spec Taigun. Based on the VW Group’s localised MQB-A0-IN platform, the production-spec Taigun will remain similar to the close-to-production model showcased at Auto Expo 2020. It’s essentially Volkswagen’s shot at the hotly contested compact SUV segment.  

The Taigun’s styling is identical to the T-Cross entry-level VW SUV sold overseas, specifically the China-spec model. It comes with a slatted VW grille that flanks a pair of LED headlamps. In profile, a character line slices through the side while the large wheel arches with body cladding add to the SUV quotient. The most striking element, without a doubt, has to be the connected LED tail lamps that give it a premium look.  

On the inside, the Taigun features VW’s new steering wheel with the updated logo. The dashboard layout is simple with all the controls placed in the right places. A dash of yellow as seen in this near-production model adds vibrancy to the cabin.  

In terms of essentials, the Taigun is likely to feature connected car tech, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, a digital driver’s display, cruise control, ventilated front seats, and a wireless phone charger. Safety should be covered by multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors with camera, electronic stability control, and a tyre pressure monitor.  

The Taigun will be offered with the Kushaq’s 115PS/175Nm 1.0-litre and 150PS/250Nm 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines. Both motors are likely to be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. However, the smaller engine will come with a 6-speed torque converter while the larger motor will be paired with a more sophisticated 7-speed DSG just like the Skoda. 

The production-spec Taigun is likely to go on sale soon after the Kushaq, which will be delivered in July. We expect it to be priced from around Rs 9 lakh (ex-showroom). This will put it in the same league as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the soon-to-be-launched Skoda Kushaq (June).