After the success of the Renault Duster and Ford EcoSport, every manufacturer has been wishing to have a share of the compact SUV segment pie. Though, it never confirmed this but Volkswagen has many a times hinted at their intent of attacking the huge untapped potential of this segment.
They, in fact, showcased the tiny Taigun compact SUV at the Delhi Auto Show. The company officials did however state that they are presently assessing the practicality of the car in Indian perspective. Taigun appeared to be the most apt car to take Volkswagen’s assault in this segment which will become highly competitive in the coming times.
Now in an interesting report, Overdrive has claimed that Volkswagen is more likely to bring the T-Roc concept to India instead of the Taigun. Volkswagen has recently showcased T-ROC at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March. It is based on the MQB platform, which is also the base of the Audi A3, New Skoda Octavia, VW Golf and the new Audi TT.
The platform is quite flexible and will have even more cars in the future. On the other hand, the Taigun is based on the PQ25 platform which is the DNA of the Indian Vento and the Polo.
The Taigun with its regular smaller footprint still looks pretty impressive, while the T-Roc with its futuristic exteriors looks more butch. The large honeycomb grille, classy mean headlamps and tail lamps, mud skirts, and even an open able top (!!!) does draw your attention. The T-Roc was featured with a 2.0L four cylinder TDI engine, churning out 184PS of power and 380Nm. Although, if this car does come to India, there would be a change of heart and a lot more changes to the dynamics to suit the Indian market and obviously we do not know how similar would the production version will look finally.
While shifting to a new platform will be a good option in the longer run, but it also means a lot of short term expenditure. While companies like Volkswagen do usually concentrate on the long term goals, but a market like India short term goals are also a big factor.
The T-Roc might be a good option thinking about the future, but the Taigun will give Volkswagen sales volumes which will start showing on their balance sheets very soon. Now it all depends on Volkswagen what they plan to do, but the future of compact SUVs is sure getting real interesting with each passing day.
Related: List of all 7 Upcoming Compact SUVs in India in 2014 and later [4.5-10 Lacs]
Don’t launch it. Vulgar looks. I can’t understand why they are thinking of launching a new SUV instead of Taigun. Already Taigun created great response among Indians. Hope Volkswagen will not change Taigun launch for India. Interested. Pls send the updates.