We have another tiny SUV->ke145 concept that is making its Indian->ke3066 debut at the Delhi Auto Show. Volkswagen’s upcoming Taigun SUV has been shown in multiple versions of “concept” form, and the latest update has graced the stands and eyes of the Delhi Auto Show.

The new Taigun is a tiny soft-roader that fits under the Tiguan->ke1817 in the VW lineup. It will be powered by a new three-cylinder, 1.0-liter turbocharged gas engine with 81 horsepower. That might not seem like a lot, but this car is being aimed at markets like Brazil and India, and it’s extremely small and light. With an exterior length of just 152 inches, the Taigun is more than 22 inches shorter than VW’s smallest SUV sold in the States.

This is likely the last pre-production version of the Taigun we will see before Volkswagen->ke94 unveils the official production version.

Read on to see just how much we know about this tiny German SUV.

2014 Volkswagen Taigun Concept

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Volkswagen Taigun Concept
  • Engine/Motor: inline-3
  • Horsepower: 110 @ 5000
  • Torque: 129 @ 1500
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The Taigun is a sporty looking off-roader, but you can be sure it will never be confused for anything but a Volkswagen. It wears the traditional Volkswagen style of smooth curved surfaces that terminate in a sharp creased edge. The tailamps are hunky, but the insides feature the same “double L” insert as most all their modern cars. The headlights are a unique touch, but they look too stylized to make it to production.

Dimensions

Length

151.93 inches

Width

68

Height

61.8

Height with Roofrails

63.2


Interior

The interior of the Taigun is crisp and clean in a way that only the German’s have seemed to master. Most of the controls are handled with a large touchscreen mounted in the dash, but we are uncertain if this feature will actually make it into the final build. Under that touchscreen is a storage area that seems perfectly sized for two large water bottles, and the passenger’s dash is molded into one large grab handle that should making entry and exit much easier.

The center gauge is dominated by one huge center gauge with small ones, and the majority of the climate control venting appears to come from three large pods mounted on top of the dash.

Seating is only for four, as there is not quite enough room between the rear passengers to qualify for a fifth seating position.

Drivetrain

Moving the Taigun down the road is accomplished with a three-cylinder, 1.0-liter TSI turbocharged gasoline engine. Volkswagen has rated this powerplant at 81 horsepower, but torque is about 130 pound-feet, which should provide ample thrust, especially with a target weight of less than 1,000 kg (2,200 pounds). The only confirmed transmission choice is a six-speed manual, but expect a six-speed automatic to be made available.

Price

As this is still a concept, there have been no discussions involving the potential price of this upcoming compact SUV.

Competition

Fiat 500L

The Fiat 500L is not quite an SUV, but it has been designed to fit the same general footprint and haul the same amount of persons and cargo. The 500L does have the benefit of being a rather stylish looking rig, but the German Taigun will likely have a much nicer interior and overall build quality.

Mini Countryman ALL4

The Mini Countryman ALL4 is a compact AWD five-door that has a collection of racing pedigree, style and badge recognition to help it move through the marketplace. Mini has made a massive dent in every niche market it has entered, and it will be difficult for Volkswagen to dethrone it many markets. The Mini is also available with MUCH more powerful engine options, making it a no-brainer option for entusiasts.

Conclusion

It won’t be coming stateside, and it’s powered by a three-cylinder engine, but overall I think this is a pretty cool little machine. Volkswagen is catering to an under-served market in many areas, and I enjoy seeing them do it with a style and quality that is usually absent from the bottom end of the market.