5 Remarkable Competitors Raising the Bar for the Volkswagen Taigun in the SUV Market

Volkswagen Taigun: A Quick Overview

The Volkswagen Taigun, a compact SUV, has gained popularity owing to its sleek design, high-quality components, and excellent performance. The muscular bumper with fog lamps, the sculpted bonnet at the front, and large air intakes enhance its front fascia. Furthermore, a silver skid plate with chrome elements highlights the overall appearance. 

At its side, sharp creases and lines, blacked-out window frames, and chrome door handles add to its sophistication. Stylish and uniquely designed alloy wheels give it a sporty look. The rear of the Taigun has modern, connected LED tail lights, a chic rear spoiler, a shark fin antenna, and a two-tone bumper with a silver skid plate. 

Inside, the Taigun blends fashion with practicality. The dashboard is simple and clutter-free, housing an easy-to-use touchscreen display and digital instrument cluster. The seats are made from premium fabric and cushioning, providing excellent comfort for long drives and good back support. 

The Taigun has a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, and you can choose between a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox and a 7-speed DSG gearbox. 

The car also provides luxurious comfort features and top-notch construction, which led to receiving an excellent five-star safety rating from Global NCAP. The Volkswagen Taigun is a perfect SUV for people who want a luxury car with excellent quality, sleek design, and impressive performance at competitive pricing.

Key Features and Specifications

The key features of the Taigun include-

• 20.32 cm (8") Digital Cockpit

• 25.6 cm (10") Touchscreen Infotainment

• Wireless Mobile Charging

• Wireless Connect

• Front ventilated leatherette

• Automatic climate control

• Auto headlamps and wipers

• Height-adjustable driver seat

• Paddle shifters with automatic transmission variants

• Tilt and telescopic steering adjustment

• Six speakers

• Electric sunroof

• Folding rear backrest (60:40 split)

• Ambient lighting

• Infinity LED tail lamps

• Muscular elevate bonnet

• 3D chrome step grille

• LED Headlamps with DRL

• R17 Alloy Wheel – Manilla

• Front chrome wing

• Auto day/night IRVM

• GT badging

Safety Features

• Six airbags

• Electronic stability control

• Park Distance Control and Rearview Camera

• Multi Collision Brakes

• Hill Hold Control

• ISOFIX child seat preparation, rear 2x

• Parking sensors (rear)

• Reversing camera

• Traction Control System, etc.

Specifications

• Length: 4221 mm

• Width: 1760 mm

• Height: 1612 mm

• Wheelbase: 2651 mm

• Ground Clearance: 188 mm

• Boot Space: 385 litres

• Engine: 1-litre turbo-petrol engine and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine 

• Max Power: 113.42 - 147.94 bhp

• Max Torque: 178 Nm

• Transmission: 6-speed manual/ 6-speed automatic/ 7-speed DCT

• Mileage: 16.44 Km/l to 18.1 Km/l

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 50 litres

Price Range and Variants

The Volkswagen Taigun has a price tag ranging from Rs 11.70 lakh - Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom price, Delhi). It is available in two broad variants: Dynamic Line (Comfortline, Highline, and Topline) and Performance Line (GT, GT Plus Chrome, GT Line, GT Plus Sport). The variant-wise price breakup (ex-showroom, Delhi) is as follows-

• Comfortline: Rs.11.70 Lakh

• Highline: Rs.13.88 Lakh to Rs.15.43 Lakh

• Topline: Rs 16.12 Lakh to Rs Rs.18.08 Lakh

• GT: Rs.16.77 Lakh to Rs.17.36 Lakh

• GT Plus Chrome: Rs.18.18 Lakh to Rs.19.74 Lakh

• GT Line: Rs.14.08 Lakh to Rs.15.63 Lakh

• GT Plus Sport: Rs.18.54 Lakh to Rs.19.74 Lakh

Check out: Volkswagen Taigun Variants

Reasons for its Popularity

The Volkswagen Taigun has gained recognition in India's SUV market due to its stylish exterior appearance and lavish interiors. The vehicle features modern technology that perfectly matches the taste of Indian car owners.

For the Taigun, efficient and powerful engine options have been included that offer excellent performance and fuel economy, which is significant for buyers in India.

Volkswagen has a strong reputation for making vehicles with dependable construction, and the Taigun is no exception. It carries a 5-star safety rating from the Global NCAP, showing that it can be trusted by those who prioritise safety in their purchases.

This car model's spacious cabin and ample front and rear space comfortably accommodate its occupants. It features well-cushioned seats and an effective air conditioning system, making it suitable for lengthy journeys in various Indian climates. The Taigun is competitively priced, making it accessible to more people. This mix of affordability and luxury has contributed to its success in the Indian car market.

Top 5 Volkswagen Taigun Alternatives

The Taigun rivals some worthy models in the same segment from different car brands, such as – the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Citroen C3 Aircross, Skoda Kushaq, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. 

1. Hyundai Creta

Innovation, features, and glamour are the right terms to describe the Hyundai Creta. From an impressive design to a competitive price tag, the Creta offers everything you want in your dream SUV.

Design and Exterior

Hyundai has entirely remodelled Creta's appearance, distinguishing it from the previous model. The redesigned rectangular grille features three horizontal slats and a full-width LED DRL strip, giving it a boxy, upright appearance. The modified bumper now has a vertically stacked rectangular split quad-beam headlamp configuration. The chrome trim above the windows distinguishes the side profile, and the top-tier model has new 17-inch alloy wheels. The rear design is aesthetically pleasant, with a huge connected tail lamp and thin sequential indicators. However, the low-positioned centre reverse bulb may be difficult to notice in parking lots and malls.

Read More:

• Volkswagen Taigun Dimensions

• Hyundai Creta Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The Creta's interior features a dual-tone style but features a redesigned dashboard. Twin 10.25-inch connected displays, like those seen in the Kia Seltos, add to its contemporary look. Ambient lighting is behind a black piano panel on the front passenger side. The revamped centre console has touch-enabled HVAC controls and improved air vents. 

The digital instrument cluster has configurable views, ADAS information, and turn-by-turn navigation. Some exclusive features include adjustable driver seats, wireless charging pads, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a premium sound system. The new model also features a 360-degree camera and dual-zone climate control, making the interior more luxurious.

Check out:

• Volkswagen Taigun Interior

• Hyundai Creta Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Creta comes with three powertrain choices, generating a power of 113.18 bhp - 157.57 bhp and 143.8 Nm - 253 Nm of torque: 

• 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol mated to 6-speed MT, IVT

• 1.5-litre turbo-petrol paired with a 7-speed DCT

• 1.5-litre diesel coupled with a 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT

Enjoy the smooth and dependable performance of the Hyundai Creta, especially when cruising on highways and towns. The increased torque and improved features make driving a lot more comfortable.

Safety Features

Hyundai claims that the Creta has undergone structural upgrades, including employing additional and advanced high-strength steel in the vehicle's body and placing reinforcements in strategic areas. 

All Creta models come preloaded with a variety of safety measures, including: 

• ABS With EBD

• Vehicle Stability Control

• 6 Airbags

• Hill Start Assist

• Electronic Stability Control

• Rear Disc Brakes

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

• ISOFIX Child seat Mounts

Also Read:

• Volkswagen Taigun All Specifications

• Hyundai Creta All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Creta's ex-showroom (Delhi) price ranges between Rs.11.00 Lakh and 20.15 Lakh, while the on-road price (Delhi) ranges between Rs 12.85 Lakh and 23.69 Lakh. The Creta has seven broad variants: E, EX, S, S(O), SX, SX Tech, and SX(O). The Creta's pricing seeks a great balance between features and affordability in a compact SUV. Hyundai's improving brand reputation is also a major contributing factor.

Pros And Cons Compared to the Taigun

Pros 

• Heavily refreshed feature list.

• Spacious cabin and comfortable seats. 

• The updated design looks sharp and appealing.

Cons

• Restrictive headspace for tall occupants.

• Top-end models are mostly expensive.

2. Kia Seltos

The Seltos is a popular compact SUV by South Korean automaker Kia Motors. With its impressive design, reliable performance, and features, this model has gained a strong foothold in the Indian car market. 

Design and Exterior

The Kia Seltos facelift features a revamped front fascia with a larger grille, redesigned headlights, extended LED DRLs, a new front bumper, and updated fog lamps, resulting in a refreshed look. A new faux skid plate adds a rugged touch. The side profile remains unchanged, with stylish alloy wheels and plastic body cladding. The rear boasts significant updates, including a connected LED light bar, vertical tail lights with sequential turn indicators, and a new rear bumper. The Kia Seltos, available in three trim lines, retains its elegance with subtle exterior enhancements.

Read More: Kia Seltos Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The Kia Seltos' interior is neat and clutter-free, featuring a new sleek touchscreen infotainment system. The dashboard has updated, sleeker AC vents and revamped audio and AC controls. Interior themes vary by trim, and the SUV includes a second screen for the instrument cluster with digital dials. The rear seat is spacious and comfortable, accommodating three adults easily and offering amenities like rear AC vents, an air purifier, and a type-C charging port. The boot space remains 433 litres. The Seltos also provides features like a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and ventilated front seats, with some features limited to top-spec variants.

Check out: Kia Seltos Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Seltos comes with three engine options generating power of 113.42 - 157.81 bhp and 144 Nm - 253 Nm: 

• 1.5-litre petrol paired with a 6-speed manual or an IVT, 

• A 1.5-litre diesel mated to either a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT or a 6-speed automatic, 

• A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine has three transmission options: a 6-speed iMT and an optional 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The performance of the Kia Seltos demonstrates the company's commitment to providing an engaging and enjoyable driving experience. The Kia Seltos offers a balanced combination of power, fuel efficiency, and handling, whether equipped with the petrol or diesel engine option.

Safety Features

The Kia Seltos facelift gets standard safety features like six airbags, ABS, brake assist, rear parking sensors, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), disc brakes on all four wheels, hill-hold assist, Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, etc. The top-spec variants get additional features like ADAS with 17 autonomous features, a 360-degree camera, an electric parking brake, etc.

Also Read: Kia Seltos All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Seltos' ex-showroom price in Delhi ranges from Rs. 10.90 - 20.35 lakh, while the on-road price varies between Rs. 12.64 Lakh - 23.93 lakh. It comes in three broad variants: Tech (HT) Line, GT Line, and X-Line. The Tech Line is further classified into HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, and HTX+ trims, whereas the GT Line now comes in GTX, GTX+ and X-line variants. The Seltos balances features and affordability in the compact SUV segment, boosted by Kia's growing brand reputation.

Pros and Cons Compared to the Taigun

Pros 

• It gets lots of modern features and level-2 ADAS

• The Seltos is a practical and spacious SUV.

• The new turbo-petrol engine is powerful.

Cons

• The ride quality could be better.

• Fully loaded variants are quite pricey.

3. Citroen C3 Aircross

The Citroën C3 Aircross is a three-row mid-size SUV with distinctive styling and a spacious interior. Its petrol engine ensures strong performance and efficiency while providing comfortable seating, excellent ride quality, and stable handling, enhancing the driving experience.

Design and Exterior

The French automaker's C3 Aircross SUV boasts a distinctive design with split headlamps, LED DRLs, circular fog lights, a wide air dam, contrast-coloured skid plates, blacked-out B-pillars, LED tail lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a shark-fin antenna, and a high-mounted stop lamp.

Read More: Citroen C3 Aircross Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The C3 Aircross features a dual-tone theme, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital instrument console, drive modes, steering-mounted controls, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and AC vents with a fan speed controller for the second row. It has four single-tone and six dual-tone colour options, with five- and seven-seat layouts. The key advantage is its spaciousness: the five-seater variant comfortably seats three adults in the rear with ample boot space, while the 5+2 variant maintains second-row space, with the third row suitable for children on short drives. It has four single-tone and six dual-tone colour options, with five- and seven-seat layouts. The key advantage is its spaciousness: the five-seater variant comfortably seats three adults in the rear with ample boot space, while the 5+2 variant maintains second-row space, with the third row suitable for children on short drives.

Check out: Citroen C3 Aircross Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Citroen C3 Aircross has a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine (108.62 bhp / 190 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Overall, it has a robust engine and offers stable handling, making it an excellent car for city and highway driving. 

Safety Features

Its safety features include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, a hill-hold assist, rear parking sensors, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and a rear parking camera.

Also Read: Citroen C3 Aircross All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Citroen C3 Aircross has a price tag of Rs 9.99 - 14.11 Lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), while the on-road price (Delhi) ranges between Rs 10.99 - Rs 14.55 lakhs. The C3 Aircross has three broad variants: You, Plus, and Max. With a blend of performance, style, and features, this model will surely offer the best value proposition in this competitive market. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Taigun

Pros 

• Spacious 5-seater variant with class-leading boot space.

• Usable 3rd of seats with cupholders and USB chargers

• Very comfortable over bad and broken roads.

Cons

• The design has no modern elements, with halogen headlights and taillamps.

4. Skoda Kushaq

The Kushaq is Skoda India's introductory crossover model, celebrated for its refinement, build quality, and performance. Skoda India has periodically introduced various special editions for the Kushaq during its tenure.

Design and Exterior

The Skoda Kushaq, tailored for the Indian market, showcases a bold, modern exterior design that distinguishes it from competitors. It features Skoda's signature sharp lines and creases and a dynamic presence. Skoda's trademark grille and sleek LED headlights highlight the SUV's front, lending a sporty appearance. Its side profile features a defining crease for a sense of motion, while the gently sloping roofline adds a coupe-like flair. Stylish alloy wheels and rugged body cladding complete its robust look, complemented by split LED tail lights and a roof-mounted spoiler at the rear.

Read More: Skoda Kushaq Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The Skoda Kushaq's cabin showcases a dual-tone dashboard with premium materials, emphasising a high-end appearance. Its uncluttered layout hosts a central large infotainment display that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and voice command functionality for hands-free operation. 

Front and rear seats offer generous legroom and headroom, and the rear seats fold flat to increase cargo capacity, enhancing the SUV's practicality for family use. Additional features include automatic climate control, keyless entry, an electric sunroof, cruise control, a two-spoke steering wheel, a wireless charger, and rear AC vents. The Skoda Kushaq combines practicality with stylish design, appealing to compact SUV buyers.

Check out: Skoda Kushaq Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Kushaq comes with two turbo-petrol engines generating a power of 114 - 147.51 bhp and 178 Nm- 250 Nm of torque:

• A 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine 

• A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine 

Both engines come standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Automatic options include a 6-speed torque converter for the 1.0-litre engine and a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission) for the 1.5-litre unit.

The Kushaq petrol engine delivers smooth performance and is ideal for urban commuting and highway driving. Its enhanced handling and increased torque provide a thrilling and invigorating driving experience, effortlessly navigating city streets while offering the power and responsiveness necessary for extended highway journeys. 

Safety Features

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder comes equipped with essential safety features, including dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), rear parking sensors, hill-hold control, and a day/night inside rearview mirror. Higher-spec variants add enhancements such as six airbags, a 360-degree camera, a reverse parking camera, hill descent control (available with AWD), and TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System).

Also Read: Skoda Kushaq All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Skoda Kushaq is priced between Rs. 10.89 lakh to 18.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), with on-road prices ranging from Rs. 12.73 lakh to 21.54 lakh in Delhi. It has five broad variants: Classic, Onyx, Signature, Monte Carlo, and Prestige. Combining performance, style, and features, the C3 Aircross offers an exceptional value proposition in this competitive market.

Pros and Cons Compared to the Taigun

Pros

• SUV-like ride quality

• Impressive cabin design and build

• Excellent infotainment and sound experience

Cons 

• The quality of materials in certain areas isn't Skoda-level

• Lack of premium features

5. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

The Urban Cruiser Hyryder presents a distinctive and attractive appearance. Its sturdy, ergonomic cabin and efficient hybrid technology deliver refined performance and stable highway handling. Enhanced by ADAS functionality, it guarantees a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Design and Exterior

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder boasts a bold exterior with dynamic design elements. Its front grille features a prominent chrome strip, Toyota emblem, LED projector headlamps, and sleek daytime running lights. The robust front bumper includes a sturdy skid plate for improved off-road capability. Muscular character lines along the sides flared wheel arches housing 16-inch alloy wheels, and modern LED taillights at the rear contribute to its sporty and rugged appearance.

Read More: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The modern and practical interior design of the Toyota Urban Cruiser boasts spacious and comfortable seating for five passengers. It features a clean, user-friendly dashboard layout that places all essential controls within easy reach. The seats are upholstered in high-quality materials, ensuring excellent support and comfort, especially on long drives. The driver's seat is height-adjustable, and the steering wheel adjusts for both reach and height, accommodating drivers of various sizes. The SUV also features a sizable boot capacity of up to 373 litres, enhancing its practicality. Overall, the interior of the Toyota Urban Cruiser combines style, functionality, and comfort, appealing to those seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.

Check out: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Toyota Hyryder comes with two petrol powertrain options, giving a maximum power output of 86.63 - 101.64 bhp and 122 Nm - 136.8 Nm: 

• A 1.5-litre mild-hybrid system mated to a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

• A 1.5-litre strong-hybrid system with an e-CVT

The CNG variants use a mild-hybrid engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, which offers a fuel efficiency of 26.6 km/kg.

Safety Features

Its safety net includes six airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), vehicle stability control (VSC), all-wheel disc brakes, and a 360-degree camera.

Also Read: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder’s price ranges from Rs 11.14 lakh to Rs 20.19 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The on-road price (Delhi) ranges between Rs 12.90 - 22.96 lakh. It is available in four broad trims: E, S, G, and V. The CNG variants are available on the mid-spec S and G trims. In the competitive SUV market, Toyota has priced its model affordably, giving a good mix of features, design, and performance. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Taigun 

Pros

• Classy, sophisticated, and please-all design

• Plush and spacious interior

• Feature loaded

Cons 

• Engines offer adequate performance but aren't exciting

Comparison Table: Volkswagen Taigun vs Alternatives

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Compact SUV

Are you planning to buy a compact SUV soon? Perhaps these key factors will help to make the buying process more convenient for you-

• Budget and Overall Value: Investing in a compact SUV necessitates setting a budget. Considering the ex-showroom price isn't enough. Consider the overall value, such as on-road price, maintenance costs, resale value, warranty coverage, etc., to spend your bucks wisely. 

• Design Preferences: Choose an SUV whose design aligns with your aesthetic preference. For instance- You can choose a stylish SUV like the Taigun or Creta. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder or Skoda Kushaq can be ideal for a sporty look. 

• Space Requirements: SUVs are mostly spacious. When choosing a compact SUV, pay attention to the amount of legroom and headroom it provides, including the boot space. It will help you comfortably accommodate your family and lifestyle.

• Performance Requirements: Examine the engine selections and driving features. Consider aspects like power, torque, and transmission type to confirm the SUV gives you the necessary performance, whether for city driving or long road trips.

• Fuel Efficiency: Fuel economy is very important, particularly for everyday drives and long trips. Make sure to look at the mileage ratings of the SUV you desire. It will help you save money on fuel expenses if it has good fuel efficiency.

• Safety Features: Look for advanced safety features such as multiple airbags, ABS, ESC, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensor and camera, etc. A good G-NCAP safety rating is also very important.

• After-Sales Service and Maintenance Costs: Examine the brand's after-sales service level and ongoing maintenance expenses for the SUV. A trustworthy service network and manageable upkeep could greatly improve your ownership process.

Conclusion: Which Volkswagen Taigun Alternative is Right for You?

When purchasing a compact SUV besides the Volkswagen Taigun, consider its alternatives and pros to make an informed decision. Here's a recap-

• Hyundai Creta: This car is ideal for advanced features, a luxurious look, and dependable performance. It can be a good choice for style, comfort, and high-tech features.

• Kia Seltos: Like Creta, Seltos has a sporty look and a long list of features. It offers three engine choices, which makes it good for those who care about style and new technology.

• Citroën C3 Aircross: This vehicle has an uncommon design and offers smooth driving, so it is suitable if you want something different and excellent ride comfort.

• Skoda Kushaq: Known for its robust construction and driving experience, the Kushaq suits those who want good performance and a luxurious touch.

• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder: This hybrid model, backed by the Toyota name, is the best option for people who want to save fuel and ensure long-term dependability.

Finally, making the right choice depends on your preferences and needs. Consider your budget, design, space, comfort, fuel efficiency, performance, safety features, technology, after-sales service, etc., to make an informed decision. 

Since the Indian SUV market is highly competitive, with a range of choices, each alternative is bound to offer you something unique and new. It can make your decision process exciting as well as challenging. Nevertheless, evaluating your requirements and lifestyle is the key to making the right choice. So, whether it's the Taigun or one of its alternatives, as mentioned above, the ideal compact SUV is waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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