Volkswagen reveals the Taigo SUV Coupe

Volkswagen bases the Taigo SUV on a platform similar to the upcoming Taigun mid-size SUV

● The Volkswagen Taigo owes its basic design to the Nivus (a South American model)● Volkswagen shares the MQB A0 platform with the T-Cross (Taigun for India)● The Taigo features two turbo petrol engine options.

The 2021 Volkswagen Taigo

Volkswagen has not tinkered much with the Nivus design that is already on sale in South America. The Taigo SUV bases its design closely on the Nivus. However, one can expect a few tweaks to suit the European market. The Volkswagen Taigo will be manufactured at Pamplona, Spain, along with its other MQB-A0 Platform siblings. The MQB-A0 platform is similar to the MQB-A0 IN architecture that will be seen in the Taigun.

The Exterior Design

While the Volkswagen Taigo gets a trendy and sporty SUV design, it features a sloping roofline to differentiate it from the T-Cross. The other differentiating points are the subtle spoiler at the rear end, a new frontal fascia with standard-fit LED headlamps, an extended rear overhang, and contrasting wheel-arch trim.

The Dimensions

The Volkswagen Taigo has similar dimensions as the Skoda Kushaq available in India. It has an overall length of 4266mm, a width of 1494mm, and a height, 1757mm.

The 2566mm wheelbase is almost the same as that available on the sixth-gen Polo and the European-spec T-Cross. However, the seats-up boot capacity is 438L, slightly less than the straighter-backed T-Cross.

The Interiors

The Taigo interiors have a lot in common with the updated Polo and the T-Cross. The standard equipment includes a multi-function steering wheel, a centrally-placed touchscreen with Volkswagen's latest MIB3 infotainment software solution, and an all-digital gauge cluster.

Other standard offerings include driver-assistance packs like cruise control and lane discipline assistance. The optional fittings include touch-sensitive climate controls and IQ.

The Engine and Powertrain

The Volkswagen Taigo is a front-wheel-driven petrol vehicle with two engines on offer. The 1.0L 3-cylinder turbocharged unit produces 95hp/110hp power, whereas the 1.5L 4-cylinder unit delivers 150hp. The smaller engine combines with either a 5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox and the larger engine, a 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch automatic).

The Taigo – Indian Launch?

As of date, Volkswagen has not announced anything about the Indian launch of the Taigo. However, the Taigun could land on the Indian shores during the festive season.