Volkswagen Taigun
Model GT+
The German assault in this test comes thanks to the VW Taigun and the Skoda Kushaq. Quite obviously we are aware of the Kushaq being Czech. But underneath both these SUVs are based on the same MQB AO IN platform from Volkswagen. However much like the two Koreans, the Kushaq and the Taigun have their own identities. The Taigun then carries the VW design philosophy and thanks to that, it looks very suave. There is the three-slat grille up front with the VW logo taking centre stage flanked by sleek LED headlight clusters. VW has also added a dollop of chrome on the front and this we think is very India-centric. The profile again flows smoothly and there is less muscle to talk about in the Taigun.
But at the back things get interesting as one can spot a similar chrome element as seen in the front. But the signature of the Taigun is the connected tail light console which endows it with a killer rear visual.
Much like the exteriors, the interior design of the Taigun is rather understated and excellently executed. The infotainment system has its own perch and blends in seamlessly within. The instrument panel is an all-digital affair and although there are blank spots on the top corners, the design sure is brilliantly executed. The centre console houses controls for the AC and although they operate on feather touch, getting used to them takes a bit of time as they are a bit small. The Taigun also comes with ventilated seats and although it is an excellent feature to have, we think its performance could be further enhanced to deal with the harsh Indian summers. When it comes to space, we can notice the best-in-class wheelbase in action. However, VW decided to offer a large boot 330-litre boot and as a
THE SUV LOVES CORNERS AND A SLALOM OR TWO IS THE PERFECT WAY TO ENJOY THIS SUV. THE STEERING OFFERS YOU A LOT OF FEEDBACK
result cabin space was reduced by a small margin. Rear seat space is ample for two and three will surely be a bit of a squeeze.
When it comes to drivability, the 1.5-litre TSI motor sure impresses. The engine feels sprightly thanks to the excellent spread of max torque lower down the rev range. The DCT gearbox too plays sport and shifts through seamlessly. However, what it sure lacks is a pushed-back into-your-seat feel. Even in sports with controls to the gearbox in the driver’s hands (paddle shifters you see), the Taigun sprints to 130kmph after which it slows down. Where the Taigun strikes is the handling department. The SUV loves corners and a slalom or two is the perfect way to enjoy this SUV. The steering too feels well connected to the system and offers you a lot of feedback adding to the drive feel.