Volkswagen Unveils Biggest SUV Offensive

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  • April 11, 2020
Volkswagen Unveils Biggest SUV Offensive

Premiering in India, the brand marked the beginning of “New Volkswagen”. The rebranding exercise was built on the theme ‘Vibrant Power’, to make the brand more humane and lively. Along with the ability to present realistic situations that its customers can resonate with in the brand experience. The realignment of Volkswagen’s brand design is one of the world’s largest rebranding campaigns.

Steffen Knapp, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, said, “With the India premiere of Volkswagen’s SUV family, the brand is showcasing its clear direction and focus for the Indian market. Our SUV range in the next two years will cater to every customer segment. We will be launching the Tiguan Allspace and T-Roc in H1 2020 in turn giving customers a plethora of options from Brand Volkswagen.”

Taigun: Under Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 project, Taigun is the first product built on theMQB A0 IN platform. The SUV will be powered by Volkswagen’s renowned TSI technology combined with the brand’s globally acclaimed DSG gear box. Taigun is a complete package for a modern Indian consumer, with a dominant front making it look bolder and muscular and in turn giving it a sporty SUV stance. The interiors are plush with leatherette seats and a digital instrument cluster. It’s contemporary in its design and would suite the active lifestyle of an Indian consumer. Further, the rear of the car has a new design element, it is illuminated with a LED strip that is bordered by a glossy blacktrim. It runs across the whole width of the car and integrates into Volkswagen’s LEDsignature tail lamps on either side. Like every Volkswagen carline, the Taigun is equipped with safety features such as 6airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) among others.

T-Roc: Volkswagen T-Roc has a progressive design language, with a coupé-style roof, distinctively wide front end and concise proportions. It exudes character and confidence. The integrated LED headlights and unique LED daytime running lights create an unmistakable look, especially when driven at night. The dual tone roof top enhances the sporty look, as it matches perfectly with the eclectic body color.

The carline will be introduced with a TSI petrol engine mated to Volkswagen’s 7-speed DSG gear box. Further, it will consist of all the standard equipment that’s part of the brand’s global SUV portfolio. 

Tiguan Allspace: One of the most spacious SUVs, the Allspace is a 7-seater carline with a generous passenger compartment. The carline has a large boot space that fits every kind of luggage. Tiguan AllSpace has a petrol-powered engine comprising Volkswagen’s renowned TSI technology, which is mated to a 7-speed 4 MOTION DSG gear box.

Tiguan: Volkswagen Tiguan is the most successful car globally, with over 3.5 million units sold across 150 markets. It is designed to make a powerful statement. Its muscular hood contours and chrome-finished grille creates a lasting first impression. It balances between sleek and ruggedness and is complemented by its clean and bold lines. The Tiguan conveys a sense of sophistication with its elegant chrome finished headlights and honeycomb grille design. Under the hood, lies a 2.0L TDI engine combined with a 7-speed 4 MOTION DSG automatic gearbox, delivering a power output of 143PS and 340 Nm oftorque. Based on Volkswagen’s MQB platform, Tiguan has several features like Pedestrian Safety (Active Hood), 6-airbags and Hill Start Assist among others. (MT)

Renault India Add 4 New Variants To Kiger SUV Line-Up

Renault Kiger

Renault India has introduced four variants to its Kiger SUV range, updating the model’s powertrain and trim options. The changes include the addition of an Evolution+ variant and an expanded selection of turbo-powered models.

The French automaker has added the Evolution+ trim across its naturally aspirated (manual and AMT) and turbo (manual) engines. Features included in this variant comprise a keyless entry and start system, driver seat height adjustment, smartphone replication, automatic climate control and fabric upholstery.

Additionally, Renault has expanded its turbo-powered range from three to five options by offering the Techno trim with a 5-speed manual transmission. The naturally aspirated range has increased from six to eight variants.

With these updates, the Kiger turbo-powered line-up now starts at INR 789,000 (ex-showroom). The base price for the Evolution+ variant is INR 699,000 (ex-showroom).

Francisco Hidalgo, VP – Sales and Marketing, Renault India, said, “At Renault, our focus has always been on making innovation and mobility more accessible to customers. With the New Kiger range, we are taking this commitment further by bringing turbo performance, premium features, and greater choice within easier reach. As customer expectations continue to evolve, accessibility today goes beyond price—it is about enabling a more complete and rewarding ownership experience. This update reflects our effort to democratise features and technologies that matter most, while staying true to Kiger’s core promise of performance.”

Citroen India Launches Limited-Run Aircross Comfort Edition

Citroen AirCross X

Stellantis-owned Citroen India has introduced the Aircross Comfort Edition, a limited-run series starting at INR 909,000 (ex-showroom). The launch coincides with the brand’s 108th-anniversary celebrations and aims to provide premium features and comfort-oriented upgrades across all trim levels.

A standout inclusion in this edition is the standardisation of premium leatherette interiors across all Comfort Edition trims, a move the company describes as a segment-first. Other ergonomic improvements include adjustable headrests for both front and rear seats, as well as refined interior finishes with soft-touch materials.

Citroen has introduced a structured accessory pack strategy to allow customers to personalise their vehicles.

YOU Pack (INR 36,600): Includes soft-touch IP, fog lamps, a 10-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera with guidelines and door cladding with chrome inserts.

PLUS Pack (INR 8,460): Adds a reverse camera with guidelines, a wireless charger, and door cladding with chrome inserts.

MAX Pack (INR 40,000): Focuses on technology and audio, featuring a JBL speaker system with an amplifier and an advanced front, cabin and rear dashcam with predictive safety alerts (e.g., front collision, lane change and pedestrian detection).

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “At Citroen, comfort is at the heart of our product philosophy. We have been closely listening to our customers, who are increasingly seeking more features, enhanced comfort, and a premium in-cabin experience at value-driven price points. The Aircross Comfort Edition is a direct response to this evolving demand.”

Skoda Kodiaq RS SUV Sells Out In 6 Minutes In India

Skoda Kodiaq RS

Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has announced that its new Kodiaq RS SUV has sold out within six minutes of its release. The limited run of 50 units was offered as part of the brand’s ‘Surrender’ campaign, marking 125 years of Skoda in motorsport and the 51st anniversary of the RS badge.

This achievement follows the performance of the Octavia RS, which sold out in 20 minutes in 2025.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said: “The RS has stood as a global icon for over half a century, with a passionate following in India for more than two decades. With the ‘Surrender’ campaign, we brought to customers a unique combination of performance and versatility in the Kodiaq RS. We are delighted—though not surprised – to see customers truly ‘surrender’ to its motorsport heritage, 4x4 capability, 7-seat luxury, and its standing as the quickest Skoda in India.”

The Skoda Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine producing 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. It features a 7-speed DSG transmission with all-wheel drive, it can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in a claimed 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 231 kmph. The vehicles is equipped with a dynamic sound boost, progressive steering and Dynamic Chassis Control Plus (DCC Plus).

The exterior features black accents on the grille, ORVMs, window trims, roof rails and D-pillars. The interior includes black leather upholstery with red stitching. The model is available in four colours: Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.

HMIL Launches Nationwide ‘Hyundai Smart Care Clinic' For Vehicle Health Checks

HMIL Launches Nationwide ‘Hyundai Smart Care Clinic' For Vehicle Health Checks

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has launched the nationwide ‘Hyundai Smart Care Clinic’, a service initiative designed to deliver comprehensive vehicle health assessments and special benefits to its customers. This programme underscores the company’s dedication to service excellence, drawing upon its three-decade legacy in the country and its foundational principles of trust, progress and pride.

Scheduled to run from 24 June to 8 July 2026, the clinic will be available at all Hyundai service centres. The offering includes a complimentary 30-point check-up for critical systems like brakes and suspension, alongside significant savings on extended warranty, mechanical labour, parts, car care, roadside assistance and Bluelink subscriptions, with discounts reaching up to 30 percent.

Timed ahead of the anticipated monsoon season, the initiative aims to ensure vehicles are prepared for wet conditions. By promoting timely maintenance and essential repairs, the programme is positioned to enhance vehicle longevity, safety and the overall driving experience for Hyundai owners.

Nilesh Shah, National Service Head, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “As Hyundai celebrates 30 years of its journey in India, we remain committed to placing our customers at the heart of everything we do. The Hyundai Smart Care Clinic reflects our customer-first philosophy, offering proactive vehicle care and a holistic service experience. Through this initiative, we aim to strengthen customer trust by ensuring their vehicles remain in optimal condition while delivering enhanced convenience, transparency and a truly rewarding ownership journey.”