What to expect from the Volkswagen Tayron India launch

Volkswagen is ready to step back into the premium three-row SUV space in India, and this time it is doing so with intent. The Tayron R-Line will become Volkswagen’s new flagship for our market, sitting above the Tiguan R Line and effectively replacing the gap left by the Tiguan Allspace back in 2021. Here is what you can realistically expect when the Tayron arrives on Indian roads by March.

A bigger and bolder Volkswagen SUV

The Tayron R Line looks every bit like a flagship. It gets sportier bumpers, R-Line badges, and 19-inch alloy wheels, giving it a more aggressive stance than the Tiguan. While it uses the same MQB EVO platform, the Tayron stretches things further with a wheelbase of 2,789mm. That extra length makes room for the third row and gives it proper seven-seat credentials.

It is also reassuring to know that the Tayron has already scored a five-star rating at Euro NCAP, something Indian buyers in this segment increasingly expect.

Cabin focused on space and comfort

Step inside and the Tayron feels suitably premium. The centrepiece is a large 15-inch touchscreen that is angled towards the driver and handles most of the vehicle’s functions. There is also a fully digital driver display and a panoramic sunroof to keep things airy.

Front seats come upholstered in leather and have a massage function. Unlike the Tiguan, which offered seat heating, the Tayron switches to ventilation, a far more sensible choice for Indian conditions. Ambient lighting with 30 colour options and matrix LED headlamps adds to the sense of occasion.

With the third row folded, boot space goes up to a generous 850 litres, making it practical as well as plush.

Familiar engine, proven setup

Under the bonnet, expect no surprises. The Tayron R Line will use the same 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine seen on the Tiguan R Line. It produces around 201bhp and 320Nm of torque and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.

Power is sent to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s AWD system, which should give the Tayron confident road manners and decent ability off the beaten path, even if hardcore off-roading is not its brief.

Pricing and positioning

Unlike the Tiguan R Line, which arrived as a fully imported CBU, the Tayron will be brought in as a CKD. This means local assembly and a more competitive price tag. Expect prices to sit between Rs 45 lakh and Rs 50 lakh ex-showroom.

That puts it squarely against rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian and the MG Gloster.