2021 Volkswagen Taigun GT manual review: Should you buy it?
The much-awaited Volkswagen Taigun SUV has been launched in India and its "GT" range is a big draw for enthusiasts with its powerful 1.5-liter TSI petrol engine. However, Volkswagen is also keen to make the Taigun GT a lot more accessible with the aggressively priced manual version. So, should enthusiasts consider this variant over the DSG automatic version? Here's our review.
The GT manual version comes with smaller alloy wheels
The Volkswagen Taigun has quite an appealing design, being understated and sporty at the same time. Up front, the massive chrome grille grabs your attention the most along with the pronounced character line at the side. The continuous LED taillamps at the rear are quite attractive, too. That said, the GT manual version comes with simpler halogen headlamps and smaller 16-inch alloy wheels.
Colored accents liven up the cabin ambience
The interiors come across as solidly built and premium looking with high-quality materials being used. Our test car also had colored inserts which did increase the cabin ambience to a certain degree. The design of the dashboard is quite functional and devoid of any clutter. The Taigun has the longest wheelbase in its class and the space on offer is satisfactory.
From automatic climate control to a rear-view camera
The GT manual comes with basic analog dials along with less equipment over the DSG automatic, which means no sunroof or even a push-button start/stop feature. That said, it does get a 10.0-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control with touch-based controls, a rear-view camera, and Type-C ports. In terms of safety, you get Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD, and two airbags.
The manual gearbox has a precise shift quality
The biggest highlight of the Taigun GT is its 1.5-liter TSI petrol engine, which produces 150hp/250Nm. The mill has a strong power delivery while being tractable in nature. The 6-speed manual gearbox has a precise shift quality and frequent downshifts are not needed thanks to the immense torque on offer. The manual version is more efficient, too, at 18.47km/l.
Is it worth your money?
The Volkswagen Taigun GT manual is priced at Rs. 15 lakh and that makes it much more affordable than the DSG version, which costs Rs. 17.5 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom). While the equipment list may not impress all, the Taigun GT manual seems better value from an enthusiast's perspective since its 6-speed manual gearbox enhances the driving experience and makes it a driver's choice.
