Volkswagen is gearing up to develop a compact sports utility vehicle (SUV), under the name Taigun. Industry experts believe that the compact SUV segment is currently harnessing good fortunes for auto makers. This segment is gaining prominence in car markets of developing regions like Asia and Southern Africa.
First shown as a concept vehicle at the Sao Paulo Motor Show, the Volkswagen Taigun will follow the Tiguan, an existing model of the company. According to reports, the compact SUV market recorded worldwide sales of more than 8.7 million units in 2012. Industry experts believe that the main rival for the Taigun will be the Ford EcoSport, as it has been doing really good business all over the world. The German auto maker is planning to assemble the Taigun at two manufacturing facilities to meet the requirements of markets in developing countries. For regions where left-hand cars are driven, the vehicle will be manufactured in Sao Paulo, Brazil. On the other hand, the right-hand drive Taigun will be developed at the firm's plant in Pune.
The Volkswagen Taigun sports a unique design and advanced features, which set it apart from compact front-wheel drive SUVs present in the market. It must be noted that the company did not disclosed the time frame for the production of Taigun. However, this compact SUV has passed its concept stage, moving on to a primary development program. It is believed that the car will be ready for sale by 2016. Volkswagen is also expected to bring the second generation Tiguan, which was exhibited at the Detroit Auto Show.
The Taigun is being developed on Volkswagen's new small family platform (PQ12), which the company is also using in the Up!. It is expected to come with an option of petrol and diesel engines, mated to a standard manual or an optional dual-clutch gearbox. A variant based on natural gas will also be released soon by Volkswagen. However, the company did not gave any clue regarding the development of electric or gasoline electric hybrids.
Volkswagen Taigun is anticipated to be driven by a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder direct injection petrol engine, which will generate a maximum power of 109 bhp. Reportedly, this engine will be sourced from the upcoming Up! GT. Addign to its performance, this powertrain will be either clubbed to a six-speed manual gearbox, or an automatic transmission which is to be released soon, according to sources close to the company.
