VW India does not subscribe to sub-4m SUV, says MD - Report

14/05/2015 - 15:22 VW Taigun, Volkswagen Anjan Ravi

The firm is working on a compact SUV globally though.

VW India has effectively ruled out plans for a sub-4 meter SUV. In an interview with the Economic Times, Mr. Michael Mayer, brand director for VW in India, said that the company does not subscribe to the sub-4 meter SUV bodystyle, quashing reports that the Taigun concept will become a reality.

VW Taigun side at Auto Expo 2014 — The Taigun concept measured 3,858 mm in length.

The Taigun, which debuted at the Sao Paulo Motor Show back in 2012 was showcased at the Auto Expo last year, albeit with slight modifications. The body color of the concept was different and designers had fitted an external spare wheel for a more rugged appearance.

The Taigun was long rumored to be VW India's EcoSport rival thanks to its overall length of 3,858 mm. However, Mr. Mayer says that while the company believes in the compact SUV segment, the product loses meaning if its too small.

For the immediate future (next 24 months), VW India has confirmed that it will introduce four main products - a compact sedan based on the Polo, the new Passat, Beetle and the next generation Tiguan SUV which is heading for a debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year.

VW T-ROC Concept side at Geneva Motor Show — The T-ROC concept previews a Golf-sized SUV that will slot below the Tiguan.

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Globally though, VW is indeed working on a compact SUV that will slot below the Tiguan. The forthcoming model is reported to be a Golf-sized SUV, indicating it to be a Hyundai ix25-rival rather than a Ford EcoSport competitor.

[Source: Economic Times]