By : RACHNA TYAGI
MUMBAI :
You may remember our VW Taigun review from August when we reviewed the range-topping 1.5-litre (MT and AT), in Udaipur and how we absolutely loved them both. Recently, we got behind the wheel of the VW Taigun 1.0-litre (AT) to bring you this review. Don’t put your money down on any vehicle just yet, at least not until you’re done reading this.
The Taigun, is a handsome SUV, with a strong VW family resemblance and a solid build quality which is its strongest appeal. Unlike many flimsy vehicles that dot our highways, you’ll immediately notice the Taigun’s robustness which is evident from the way the doors and the bonnet shut. The sound is enough to reassure you about the vehicle’s strength and rigidity. Also, the design of the Taigun is fresh and more slimmed down from other VW SUVs that you may have seen in the past. This leaner aesthetic is evidently a new design direction for the group (The new Tiguan, showcased in Goa, earlier in March, this year, also sports a similar leaner aesthetic) and is unique – something that we’re absolutely dotty about. The big draw for most Indian buyers, whom the Taigun is aimed at, is the chunky bar that gets a chrome treatment and which has been beautifully integrated into the front bumper. We really like the way it wraps itself around the foglamps. Also, the beautiful crease lines on the bonnet and the doors add to the Taigun’s appeal. However, it is the rear that is really droolworthy, thanks to the LED light strip which runs across the tailgate and sits between two beautiful C-shaped taillamps. Also, as if to complete the look from the front, the rear bumper also gets the chunky bar with the chrome treatment and it really adds oodles of appeal to the Taigun.
Inside, what you get are a few different shades of grey and there’s also some beige… that’s what our Curcuma Yellow Press demonstrator, came with. The seats get perforated leather and look really appealing thanks to the light and dark grey leather used. The dashboard also comes with different textures and finishes so there’s something for everyone and you’re bound to like the mix of hard plastics as well as rough and smooth surfaces that have been intelligently used on the inside. We only wish that the roof liner was made with a better-quality fabric, however, that’s hardly a dealbreaker. The sun roof also is a good addition for all those desirous of bringing the outdoors in. The 10-inch Infotainment touchscreen which gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is easily one of the best we’ve used all of this year and the instrument cluster is a sheer joy to look at as well as very easy to use for all driving related info which is made easily available. The steering mounted controls further make driving the Taigun even more fun, thanks again to the well-constructed and robust build quality of the buttons that it comes fitted with, again nothing flimsy here. We really like the way in which the shiny VW logo has been crafted. It sits at the center of the three-spoke steering with its grainy surface that really makes it pop. The stalks also speak volumes about VW’s quality and it is while driving the Taigun on a daily basis that you’ll realize about the sheer joy that lies in these little things that VW has ensured are present on the Taigun to bring a smile on your face.
This 1.0-litre TSI engine that the Taigun comes with, (besides the 1.5-litre TSI engine) is the one that Volkswagen is heavily banking on to do well in India and not just because it is a hoot to drive, thanks to the 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque that it puts out from its 6-speed torque converter AT gearbox (The one we drove), but also because of its fuel efficiency. We drove it for almost 200 kms+ and the fuel indicator bar was not even anywhere close to the half empty mark, despite some bratty driving and barely switching off the air-conditioning throughout the long drive. And that, undoubtedly, is a very big reason why buyers will be making a beeline for this 1.0-litre Taigun which in our opinion is a gem of an engine – both responsive and frugal.
We loved the slightly squared off steering of the Taigun and the ability to maneuver it around easily. The fact that it isn’t one of those large, bulky SUVs makes it a great size for singles, couples as well people with small families. Not to say that people with big families shouldn’t opt for it, why not, but then, be prepared for some shoulder-to-shoulder sitting at the rear. However, it must be said that it isn’t too bad, because the transmission tunnel at the rear is just ever so slightly raised and doesn’t really hamper legroom. Those 17-inch alloys handled every single bad road remarkably well and we really loved the body control that the Taigun exhibited, especially during cornering. The slightly stiff seats are truly fantastic and though there is a slight amount of bodyroll, it is barely noticeable. This 1.0-litre engine is game for almost anything and it is super-responsive too. A slight tap on the throttle and it unleashes its true capabilities while truly surprising you with its agility. Upshifts are quick, the only thing, we felt could’ve been better was downshifting where it seems to pause for a bit before engaging the gear. However, it all happens within seconds and most everyday drivers will barely even notice it. You can also drive using paddle shifters, if you want greater control. Though the Taigun does whatever it is told to do, one must bear in mind that this 1.0-litre engine is more for people who want to get from point A to point B, rather than enthusiasts who want to really push cars hard. The Taigun is a nippy little offering from Volkswagen and we definitely had a blast driving it around.
The 1.0-litre VW Taigun is for you if who’re looking for something that is solid, well built, fun to drive, loaded with Tech, and easy on the pocket. One thing is for sure – you won’t regret it.
