Volkswagen India is gearing to foray into the highly competitive sub-4 metre SUV segment, currently dominated by models like the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza. Its sister brand Skoda is already offering the Kylaq in this space, which has been generating volumes, and is ready to receive a new Sportline variant in the coming months.
As a part of Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 project, the new Volkswagen subcompact SUV is expected to share platform, powertrains and components with the Skoda Kylaq. A similar badge-engineering strategy has already been used for the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq midsize SUVs. This new model is expected arrive by mid-2027.
Distinctive Design Language
The new Volkswagen subcompact SUV is likely to feature a distinctive design language, setting it apart from its Skoda sibling. The model might derive several design elements form the Volkswagen Tera, which made its global debut in Brazil last year.
The Tera draws styling cues from the VW Tiguan, featuring a black grille with a chromed Volkswagen logo at the centre, black bumper with air intakes at the edges, slim headlamps, a two-part LED DRL signature at the front. Other design highlights include bold should lines with muscular fenders, black A-and B-pillars, black roof, rear bumper with gloss black garnishes and connected taillamps.
Morden Features
The cabin layout and features are expected to be similar to the Skoda Kylaq. Based on the MQB-A0 IN platform, the VW subcompact SUV is likely to be equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated front seats, leatherette upholstery, a single-pane sunroof, six airbags, electronic stability control and more. It is till unclear whether it will offer an ADAS suite or give it a miss similar to the Kylaq.
Turbo Power Under the Hood
Speculations suggest that the upcoming Volkswagen subcompact SUV might share its engine with the Skoda Kylaq. The latter is currently available with a 1.0L, three-cylinder TSI engine, generating a healthy 115bhp and 178Nm. Both 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearboxes could also be carried over.
