Efficiency and Power
This may be the most interesting aspect yet. How does a downsized, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine displacing just one litre deliver the power, torque, and response of an engine twice its size not from a decade ago? The 999-cc 1.0 TSI has a wholesome 115 hp and 178 Nm and is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission, making for both driver engagement and incredible efficiency on the long haul. Similarly, it is just as punchy and responsive in the city and on the quick jaunt out.
For those looking for more, the 1.5 TSI four-cylinder engine in the Volkswagen Taigun GT “Performance Line” model is an all-you-can-eat buffet for the starving enthusiast. This has the works. Four cylinders and a peppy 150 hp with 250 Nm of torque are backed by Volkswagen’s innovative fuel-saving Active Cylinder Technology that cuts half the engine cylinders under low load. This can happen under steady acceleration or at highway speed. The engine start/stop system further helps in reducing fuel consumption. Finally, the lightning-quick seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission makes short work of effective power transfer and makes for quick, linear and effortless acceleration.
Equipment and Convenience
The new Volkswagen Taigun is high on tech and safety features as well while bringing in a good amount of convenience features that make it an able SUV for daily use as well as an adept highway mile-muncher. Among the many features it brings are an 8.0-inch driver information cockpit and an even larger 10-inch centre touchscreen with customizable app blocks. It also offers extensive support features for smartphones, including wireless charging, media streaming, call and text logs, and voice control. The premium audio system has six speakers and multiple media source options.
The Volkswagen Taigun’s large sunroof helps create a pleasant, airy, and bright cabin or acts as a perfect interface for those who like watching raindrops fall inches from their face. After dark, the ambient lighting—white for the 1.0 TSI and red for the GT models—spices things up inside.
Then there’s the My Volkswagen connect suite which brings both peace of mind and immense convenience. Take the car locator, anti-theft alarm or geofencing, for instance. One can find where their Taigun is parked or get a notification if it leaves a certain area or is towed away. It can also inform of how efficiently it has been driven, help keep a track of service records, pinpoint specific information about the engine or battery or even find the way to the nearest fuel station.
Ultimately, it’s how the little things make a big difference. With appropriate storage and thoughtful ergonomics, the Volkswagen Taigun marks itself out as a future-ready car available now, in the present. It’s a finely balanced car that addresses the needs of a vast segment of buyers. Why the Taigun? Why not, indeed?
Story: Jim Gorde
