Volkswagen to launch Tiguan SUV and Passat

VW is looking to expand its product line up and moving back into the premium space of the Indian automotive market with the launch of its Tiguan SUV and Passat sedan (discontinued in2013). It will launch Tiguan SUV around April this year, followed by the new Passat in July.

The Tiguan in its second generation is the VW’s is based on the MQB platform (also used by Octavia and A3). It will be assembled at SAIPL’s Aurangabad facility and compete with Hyundai’s Santa Fe when launched.

The Tiguan will be powered by VW’s 2.0 TDI diesel making 177hp and 350 Nm of torque.

Power will be transmitted to the driven wheels via a seven-speed DSG gearbox, with an option of a four-wheel-drive system. Pricing will hover around ₹30-35 lakhs (ex-showroom).  

The Tiguan wears VW’s new design philosophy with a sharp, sporty exterior design. MQB has resulted in weight savings 50 kgs over the car it replaces. Interiors are of high quality and spacious.

The Tiguan will be followed with the re-introduction of the Passat sedan. It is expected to use VW’s new EA288, 2.0-litre 177hp unit. Just as the Tiguan, the Passat will also be assembled locally, and is likely sell at around ₹32-34 lakh (ex-showroom).

Volkswagen may also launch at a late stage, the Passat GTE, a plug-in hybrid with a claimed fuel efficiency of 70kpl.