The Volkswagen Taigun has been a top choice for SUV buyers who prioritize driving feel and engagement. However, the segment has become increasingly crowded, with competitors encroaching on the Taigun’s turf. To stay competitive, Volkswagen has released a facelifted version of the Taigun.
The new styling is a notable improvement, with a sleek and sharp design that recreates the new Volkswagen look in a smaller footprint. The squinted lighting and distinct LED signature with backlit logos and brighter LEDs are particularly striking features. The split grille and big lower air dam also work well with the new design.
Volkswagen Taigun Facelift Styling and Boot Space
The rear lighting has taken on a deeper 3D effect, which enhances the overall look of the vehicle. The boot space remains at 385 liters, which is not the largest in the segment, but it easily accommodated all the luggage and equipment during a 480 km road trip from Dholavira to Udaipur.
The deep floor of the boot space means there is a high lip, but the space is relatively free of intrusions, making it easy to fit in multiple strolleys, backpacks, and a cool box. This makes the Taigun a practical choice for families or groups of travelers.
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Inside Taigun Improvements
Inside, the Taigun’s restrained and simple design has not aged significantly, and Volkswagen has enhanced it with new finishes, such as the brushed silver effect in non-GT trims. The plastics are of good quality, and the capacitive touch panel for climate controls is still present, although it can be tricky to use on the move.
A notable improvement is the new fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, which feels more upmarket and is more logical to use. The central touchscreen takes a while to load, but it pairs quickly and reliably with wireless phones. The driving position is easy to adjust, and the seats are among the best in the segment, with ventilation and powered functions.
The door pockets hold a decent amount, but there could be more space in the central tunnel. An electronic park brake would have freed up space for phones and other items. The wireless charging is also somewhat unreliable. However, the panoramic sunroof adds a sense of openness and airiness to the back seat, especially with lighter colors.
The 2651 mm wheelbase provides ample space for passengers, and the front seats are placed slightly high, allowing for plenty of footroom. The floor is nearly flat, and the back seats are very comfortable, with good thigh support and a comfortable recline angle. However, the narrow cabin and hump on the seatback can make it less comfortable for middle passengers.
Test Drive Experience
The Volkswagen Taigun facelift was driven on a 480 km road trip, which included winding local roads and fast highways. The first half of the journey was in the new 1.0-litre Taigun with the 8-speed auto, which performed well on the terrain, with refined engine noise and minimal vibrations.
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The steering feels a touch lighter than before, but it’s still direct, making it easy to drive on narrow roads. The handling and chassis balance are also impressive, allowing the Taigun to stay steady and controlled over undulations and unpaved roads. The 1.0-litre engine provides strong and consistent performance, although it can feel a bit sluggish with a full load of passengers at high speeds.
The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol version of the Taigun was later driven on the winding highways leading up to Udaipur. The 150 PS and 250 Nm engine provides a wide powerband and linear performance, making it easy to get up to high speeds and maintain momentum. The DCT transmission has slightly taller gearing, but the wider powerband gives it great legs in highway driving.
Taigun 1.5 Performance
The Taigun 1.5 feels less stressed with a full load of passengers and seems to hold speed more effortlessly. The DCT transmission has a crisp and sharp edge to its shifts, adding to the engaging driving experience. In Sport mode, the aggression is amped up, making it a thrilling drive on open highways. The heavier nose of the Taigun 1.5 gives it a more planted feel on sweeping bends, although it can feel slightly less agile around tighter corners.
The Volkswagen Taigun facelift is priced between Rs 11 lakh to Rs 19.30 lakh, making it a competitive option in the segment. The added features and stylish design only enhance its appeal, making it a strong contender in the crowded SUV market.
