Volkswagen to launch India-built sub-4m compact SUV in 2027 on Skoda Kylaq platform

Volkswagen is preparing to bring a new sub-4 metre compact SUV to India in 2027. The vehicle will be developed and built in India. The company announced it a few months ago. It will slot below the Taigun, so it is likely to be Volkswagen's cheapest SUV in India.

On the platform, the SUV will share its mechanical base with the Skoda Kylaq. Both vehicles will use the MQB A0 IN platform, developed for India. The Kylaq is 3,995 mm long with a wheelbase of 2,566 mm, and the new Volkswagen SUV could be of similar size. It may be produced at the Volkswagen Group's plant at Chakan, which would make it easier to increase the use of local parts.

The design may show traces of the current Taigun and the Virtus facelift. It is expected to get new LED headlamps, separate DRL lights, a wider front grille and larger wheel arches. At the rear, it may get new-design tail lamps and a changed bumper. The name of the Volkswagen Tera, sold in Brazil, is also being talked about, but the Indian SUV's design could differ from it.

For the engine, it is likely to get the Kylaq's 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI turbo petrol unit, which produces 115 PS of power and 178 Nm of torque. The Kylaq comes with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, but the Volkswagen SUV could be offered with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The cabin is likely to get a 10.1-inch touchscreen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, ventilated seats and an electric sunroof. For safety, it could get 6 airbags, ESC, traction control, ABS, hill-hold assist and TPMS. The Kylaq has already earned 5 stars in the Bharat NCAP crash test.

The new SUV is expected to be priced between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 13 lakh (ex-showroom). In India, it will compete with the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and Mahindra XUV 3XO.