Volkswagen plans to re-enter India’s sub-four-meter passenger vehicle segment with a compact SUV launching in 2027. This new model will be engineered and built locally, positioning itself as the brand’s most affordable SUV, below the Taigun in pricing.
Design cues for the upcoming SUV may draw from the Skoda Kylaq’s architecture, blending elements from the Taigun and Virtus. Its styling could mirror the refreshed Taigun and the soon-to-launch Virtus facelift, which will introduce updated lighting and GT styling details.
Design and Features
Styling highlights may include a similar grille treatment, prominent wheel arches, distinctive LED daytime running lamps, and a redesigned rear section. Inside, buyers could get a 10.1-inch touchscreen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and automatic climate control.
Additional features might cover ventilated front seats, electric adjustment for the driver seat, wireless phone charging, cruise control, and an electric sunroof. A GT Line variant with dark exterior accents and unique interior trim is another possibility.
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Platform and Safety
The SUV will be built on the MQB A0 IN platform, co-developed by Volkswagen’s Indian and European engineering teams—a shared foundation with the Skoda Kylaq. This setup allows for extensive localization and production at the Chakan facility.
Safety features will include six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, hill-hold assistance, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and tyre pressure monitoring system, along with a reversing camera and parking sensors. The Skoda Kylaq already earned five stars in Bharat NCAP crash tests, and Volkswagen confirms the platform meets Indian safety standards.
Engine and Transmission
Powering the SUV will be the 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol engine from the Kylaq, delivering 115 PS and 178 Nm. Unlike the Kylaq’s six-speed manual and automatic options, this model is tipped to feature an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Volkswagen compact SUV is expected to cost between Rs. 8 lakh and Rs. 13 lakh (ex-showroom) and will compete against the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV 3XO, and its Skoda counterpart.
