Volkswagen Taigun Unveiled: Joins Hands With Kushaq To Rival The Korean Duo

• VW Taigun looks similar to the close-to-production concept displayed at Auto Expo 2020.
• It’s the second model after the Kushaq to be based on the localised MQB-A0-IN platform.
• A GT trim will be offered for those who want a sportier-looking Taigun.
• It will only be offered with two turbo-petrol engines; no diesel on the cards.
• Both engines will be offered with manual and automatic transmissions.
• It will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Skoda Kushaq.

The production-spec VW Taigun has been unveiled, and at a glance, it looks eerily similar to the close-to-production concept displayed at Auto Expo 2020. Set to be launched by August, the Taigun is Volkswagen’s answer to the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and its cousin, the Kushaq. It’s the second model to be based on the VW Group’s MQB-A0-IN platform that underpins the Kushaq and will only come with turbo-petrol engines. Also, there’s a GT Line trim with sportier cosmetic enhancements to lure enthusiasts. 

Numbers First

The Taigun will boast up to 95 percent localisation so spares could be priced nominally. Its dimensions are yet to be disclosed, but the Taigun should be similar to the Kushaq considering both models are essentially the same model with a different suit. It won’t be the largest in its segment but it should have the longest wheelbase. 

*Including roof rails

SUVW Enough?

Since the Taigun looks quite similar to the concept, we list the elements that have been skipped or toned down from the concept. 

• The alloy wheels, with the same design as the concept, have been downsized from 19-inches to 205/55 R17 units. 

• The honeycomb mesh decal on the C-pillar has thankfully been done away with as well. 

In our books, the Taigun looks smart. The design is more understated rather than stand out. The slatted chrome along with the LED headlamps gives the front-end a mini Tiguan-like vibe. Volkswagen has also been generous with the chrome -- it’s present even on the bumper. In profile, the Taigun looks a lot like the Kushaq since both models share the same doors and the sharp shoulder line. Our favourite bit has to be the rear. The LED tail lamps that are connected by a light strip look fab, especially when lit up at night.  

Interior Experience

Note: Taigun concept pictured here. 

Even on the inside, the Taigun looks a lot like the concept. Again, the design takes a more understated approach with all the controls positioned at the right places. The concept’s colour coordinated bits on the dashboard have been replaced by a more neutral grey shade. It also borrows the Kushaq’s 10-inch infotainment system and touch-based air-con controls. 

All the small “simply clever” touches such as the reflector dot on the doors and the string to hold things in the door pads are limited to the Skoda Kushaq. The VW does get one wow feature over the Kushaq, which brings us to the next point. 

All The Bells And Whistles

Note: Taigun concept pictured here. 

Volkswagen has gone all out with features such as a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, connected car tech, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated front seats, a sunroof, a 6-speaker sound system, a wireless phone charger, and automatic climate control. It also comes with a fully digital instrument display that is missing in the Kushaq. 

Safety is covered by up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, parking sensors, and a rear-view camera. Dual airbags and electronic stability control are standard across the range. 

Turbo-Petrol Power

Note: Taigun concept pictured here. 

The Taigun will be powered by two turbo-petrol engines: a 115PS 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 150PS 1.5-litre four-cylinder motor. Both engines are a direct lift from the Kushaq and come with manual and automatic transmissions. The 1.5-litre TSI engine also comes with cylinder deactivation tech, which shuts down two cylinders to maximise fuel efficiency under a light load. Here are the specs:

What’s The GT Trim Like?

Now that you know everything about the Taigun, here are all the extra additions in the Taigun GT. Based on the top-end variant, it only comes with cosmetic updates:

• GT badging on the grille and tailgate. 

• Red brake callipers. 

• Red ambient lighting with adjustable intensity. 

• Contrast red stitching on the seats. 

• To be offered initially only with a 150PS 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 7-speed DSG. 

Expected Price And Rivals

Note: Taigun concept pictured here. 

The Taigun is likely to be priced between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 17.5 lakh (ex-showroom), putting it in the ballpark of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Skoda Kushaq.