Volkswagen Taigun Review

Introduction

Since 2021, Volkswagen has been producing the Volkswagen Taigun, a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment). The Taigun is based on the Volkswagen T-Cross and is manufactured in India for Indian and Mexican customers. The name "Taigun" could be linked back to 2012, when Volkswagen introduced an alternative smaller crossover SUV prototype car with a similar nameThe name is taken from there.

The Taigun is constructed on the 'Indianised' MQB A0 IN platform, much like the Kushaq, with which it was designed and produced, and it boasts up to 95% domestic components. This is an amazing initiative to promote Indian industries. The 115hp, 1.0-liter turbo-petrol engine from the Taigun series is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

However, the 'GT' variants with more heat are the subject of this review. The 150hp, 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine for the Taigun GTs is the only one offered, and it comes standard with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Detailed Description

Features

Volkswagen Taigun: The DSG Variant Driven

Volkswagen Taigun receives a high-tech digital cockpit that gives it a contemporary air. It also has larger 17-inch alloy wheels, which provide a different appearance from the 16-inch model. Driving a DSG model is significantly more comfortable because it swaps gears seamlessly.

The goal is to modulate the accelerator to change the gears. The Taigun bestows us with good fuel efficiency due to gentle modulation and cylinder deactivation technology. However, if we have a sporty mindset, the gearbox will shift down and provide us with strong acceleration. We admired how easily it could weave through traffic.

Engines gearbox options

Volkswagen offers two different petrol engines and four different gearbox options for the Taigun. The 1.0-liter three-cylinder TSI engine, which makes 115 horsepower and 178 Nm of torque, is the first. It can be connected to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The 1.5-liter four-cylinder TSI engine, which produces 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, is the second engine choice. The two cars we got to drive were equipped with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed DSG. Also worth mentioning is the 1.5 TSI's cylinder deactivation technology, which turns off two cylinders when the SUV is coasting or traveling at a low pace.

Ride and Handling

The Taigun excels in riding and handling in a very Germanic way! The firm setup guarantees good dynamics and an engaging driving experience. At higher speeds, the suspension absorbs nicely, easily displacing potholes. The Taigun's occupants are not much affected by anything the road can throw at it.

But it can be sensed to some extent at lesser speeds! The Taigun maintains its ground effectively at high speeds and exhibits first-rate stability, which inspires confidence. The Taigun is a sturdy animal that enjoys corners. Even though it is light, the steering provides a respectable degree of feedback, which is typical of most German vehicles.

The Taigun does gain speed quickly when driven vigorously but in a very linear fashion. We won't feel that pushback into your chair, but the forward motion is powerful. The negative of winding this engine is that as the revs reach 3,500 rpm, it becomes rather noisy, and this boomy character may become quite obtrusive on an extended trip. It might be annoying for some people.

On the other hand, relaxed cruising or light driving trigger the engine's cylinder-on-demand technology, which causes it to turn off two of its four cylinders to save fuel. If we don't check the display on the MID, the system operates so quietly that we won't even notice when the engine is only using two cylinders. A slight push on the accelerator pedal causes the engine to restart, firing on all cylinders. This is a fuel-saving mechanism.

The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox in the GT auto is an improved version of the DQ200 gearbox that was used in the previous-generation Octavia 1.8 TSI and the old Polo GT TSI. It's good that its smooth nature doesn't change.

We'll frequently find driving around town in fifth or even sixth gear because the shifts are smooth and, in D mode, it feels eager to shift to the highest ratio feasible in the interest of fuel efficiency. It retains the gears slightly longer in Sport mode for sharper, quicker reflexes.

Interior

The Taigun is a compact SUV with smart packing that ensures comfort for all four passengers. However, there won't be sufficient space in the back for the fifth passenger. The cabin feels airy because of the greenhouse, small sunroof, and lighter-colored pieces on the upholstery.

While plastics are comparable to those in the Skoda, the dashboard and steering feature distinctive VW styling, and the primary screen is housed in an angular nook with piano black accent components. This, along with the 'virtual cockpit,' full digital instruments display, which is an eight-inch color TFT on the top model, gives the Taigun a distinct look.

A sizable infotainment system that supports Apple and Android is also available. Additionally, it transmits data about travel and fuel efficiency. The Taigun has wireless charging capabilities. The touch-sensitive pads for the climate control system are the only item that seems out of place here. Since the display is small, it can take you some time to get used to it. The reach and rake on the steering can be changed.

Rear AC vents, two Type C charging ports, and an armrest with space for two cups and one mobile device are among the many options available to the backseat passengers as well. The 60:40 split function on the back seats also increases the amount of luggage that can be carried. The boot is very roomy and provides a private space. VW provides a tonne of options when it comes to safety features. In addition to airbags, several more active and passive systems, including electronic differential lock, electronic stability control, and traction control, are present. They make the rides safer.

Exterior

The Taigun isn't the largest midsize SUV available for purchase in India, to start with. The Taigun is a little bit shorter and narrower than a Hyundai Creta, so it lacks a little bit of the SUV-like butch road presence that many potential buyers might expect. Having said that, the Taigun is stylish, modern, and appealing in metal. Heavy doses of chromium have been added to satisfy domestic purchasers' tastes.

With simple lines and a straightforward design language, the appearance is unmistakably Volkswagen. The elevated, squared-off bonnet immediately distinguishes the Taigun from the more opulent Tiguan, while the three-slat chrome grille with an enlarged VW badge mixes in with the huge headlamp clusters.

The Taigun has a sharply defined shape, with the class-leading 2,651mm long wheelbase and low overhang stance being most noticeable in profile. The Taigun's tail is its most noticeable angle.

Attractive LED tail lamps connected by a useful light strip that spans the width of the tailgate are nestled in a sizable, smoked bezel. When lit, the taillights seem stunning and come from a future concept car. The chrome accents on the rear bumper that are intended to resemble dual exhaust housings increase the amount of flash at the back.

Audio System Sound Quality

A 10" touchscreen HU is available on the Taigun's mid- and high-spec models. Although it lacks tactile buttons, the device is quick to operate and features a crisp display and user-friendly interface. The display is a fingerprint magnet and reflects everything around it; at the end of the journey, our review car was covered in so many smudges!

The power and volume buttons should have had physical knobs instead. There is no lag, and the UI is sleek. In addition to Bluetooth and WiFi, the infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system can be used to change a variety of settings, including those for the instrument cluster, service settings, interior and exterior lights, mirrors, wipers, ESC (electronic stability control), and essential locking systems.

Safety

Taigun ensures the passengers are always secure, even in the worst-case scenarios. The safety precautions are carefully thought out to offer maximum safety.

The fundamental safety attributes are-

Back-and-forth airbags
EBD and ABS
Brake support
Sensors for rear-parking
Seatbelt warning
Speed warning

Key Features of the Volkswagen Taigun Include-

Best Family Vehicle for Four People

Performance Packed with Power

Great Steering and Handling Dynamics

Remarkable Construction Quality as a Differentiator

Colors Available

Volkswagen Taigun color options include Candy White, Reflex Silver, Carbon Steel Grey, Wild Cherry Red, and Curcuma Yellow.

Pros

VW fits well with its cousin (the recently released Skoda Kushaq) in a category that is dominated by Indian, Korean, and Chinese SUVs and has its own unique, fresh, European character.
The cabin has plenty of storage, supportive chairs, ideal ergonomics, and adequate legroom.
The Taigun is one of the segment's most entertaining crossovers to drive for its 148 BHP engine!
Sporty MTs with six speeds and smooth ATs are paired with 1.0L and 1.5L turbo-petrol engines.
Active cylinder technology, ventilated seats (weirdly only on the 1.0 TSI), sunroof, 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, auto headlamps and wipers, and so on.
Advantages also include a top AT model with 6 airbags, a more distinctive style, a better-feeling cabin, and better-executed cloth seats.

Cons

The quality and color scheme of the cabin doesn't feel up to par with customary VW standards.
Without a doubt, it lacks the credibility and presence that certain rivals give.
Some now-standard items are missing, including 6 airbags in the MTs, a subwoofer, driving modes (sport), a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, electronic driver's seat adjustment, and rear window shades.
Turbo-petrol is quite sensitive to driving techniques. When we drive rapidly, our FE will plummet drastically.

Volkswagen Taigun: Should You Buy One?

The Taigun is not the best option if you desire a big, powerful SUV or you frequently travel with all five seats occupied. However, the Taigun is a roomy 4-seater, and it does have a stylish exterior and interior. Yes, it lacks some of the features of its Korean competitors and shows some evidence of cost-cutting, but on the bright side, it feels just as hard as a German SUV should.

The driving division is where the Taigun appeals are located. With its powerful 1.5-liter engine, plush ride, and agile handling, this SUV is enjoyable to drive. The more diminutive Taigun 1.0 TSIs likewise provide good value for money. The price range for the 1.0 variants is expected to be between Rs 10.5 and 14 lacks, while the 1.5 MT will probably start at Rs 15.5 lakh, and the top-of-the-line DSG models will cost Rs 18 lakh.

Verdict

The Volkswagen Taigun offers a remarkable blend of ride comfort and handling because of its solid construction. The distribution of amenities and trim levels, as well as the car's distinctive look, are definitely some good perks. The external style has a showier appearance thanks to its many chrome accents. When compared to competitors, there are slight differences in cabin and boot space and signs of cost-cutting. Overall, the Taigun is an intriguing new midsize SUV that will particularly entice auto enthusiasts.