Volkswagen Taigun Highline vs Highline Plus: Features, Price and Key Differences

Volkswagen recently launched the Taigun facelift in India, introducing updated exterior styling and new features while retaining familiar engine options. The facelifted Taigun is available in seven variants: Comfortline, Highline, Highline Plus, GT Line, Topline, GT Plus Chrome, and GT Plus Sport. The Highline sits just above the base Comfortline, offering a comprehensive set of standard features. The Highline Plus builds on this with added comfort and premium touches. This article compares the Highline and Highline Plus variants, focusing on features, pricing, and value.

Key Highlights

• Volkswagen Taigun facelift offers seven variants with updated features and design
• Highline and Highline Plus both use the 1-litre TSI engine with manual or automatic options
• Highline Plus adds sunroof digital display and extra comfort features for about Rs 1.6 lakh more
• Both variants include 6 airbags ABS with EBD and advanced safety features
• Highline offers strong value while Highline Plus targets buyers seeking added comfort

Variant Pricing and Engine Options

Both the Highline and Highline Plus variants come with a 1-litre TSI turbo petrol engine. Buyers can choose between a manual and an automatic gearbox for both trims. The price difference between the manual versions is about Rs 1.60 lakh, while the automatic variants differ by around Rs 1.65 lakh. These prices are ex-showroom, pan India. The 1.5-litre TSI engine is reserved for the higher GT Plus Chrome and GT Plus Sport trims.

Exterior and Interior Features

Externally, the Highline and Highline Plus look almost identical. Both feature a muscular bonnet, full LED headlamps with LED DRLs, chrome grille accents, and 16-inch silver alloy wheels. The Highline Plus adds silver-finished roof rails and chrome door handle appliques, while the Highline has black roof rails. At the rear, both variants get connected LED taillights with sequential turn indicators, a chrome 'TAIGUN' badge, and a silver skid plate. The Highline also offers Welcome and Goodbye animations in the taillights.

Inside, both variants share a grey and beige cabin theme with Anthracite fabric seats and silver-grey stitching. The dashboard layout is identical, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, touch-based AC controls, and white ambient lighting. The Highline Plus adds a single-pane sunroof, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, push-button start, a cooled glove box, and chrome inserts on door handles. Both trims offer a 60:40 split rear seat and a rear centre armrest.

Technology and Safety Equipment

The Highline variant includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 6-speaker sound system, automatic climate control, electrically adjustable ORVMs, and a wireless phone charger. The Highline Plus enhances this with electrically foldable ORVMs and a rear parcel shelf. Safety features are similar on both variants, including 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, multi-collision braking, hill hold assist (AT only), cruise control (AT only), front and rear parking sensors, a rear camera, TPMS, electronic differential lock, ISOFIX mounts, and a rear defogger. The Highline Plus adds automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and an auto-dimming IRVM.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Variant

The Highline variant offers a strong value proposition for buyers seeking a well-equipped mid-size SUV without stretching their budget. It covers all essential comfort, convenience, and safety features. For an additional Rs 1.6 lakh, the Highline Plus adds a sunroof, digital display, push-button start, and other comfort-focused upgrades. These features enhance the cabin experience but are not strictly necessary. Buyers prioritizing added comfort and a premium feel may find the Highline Plus worth the extra cost, while the Highline remains the more economical choice for essential needs.