Volkswagen Taigun Small SUV Concept revealed

By George on October 23rd, 2012

Volkswagen has unveiled a Taigun small SUV concept at the São Paulo motor show, that previews the look of a possible small SUV based on the New Small Family platform, which underpins the up!.

The Taigun is small on the outside – at just 3.86 metres long and 1.73 metres wide – but big on the inside, thanks to a generous 2.47 metre wheelbase.

Powering the four-seat Taigun is a new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 110 PS at 5,000 rpm and pushing 175 Nm (129 lbs ft) of torque through the six-speed manual gearbox. The combined fuel consumption is just 4.7 litres per 100km (60.1 mpg). Weighing just 985 kg, the Taigun accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 9.2 seconds and on to 186 km/h (115 mph) top speed.

According to VW, the look of the Taigun is deliberately styled to emulate that of its SUV siblings, the Tiguan and Touareg, as is evident in the rugged side panels, underbody protection and practical roof rails with LED spotlights.

The Taigun is not confirmed for production yet, but Volkswagen will be monitoring public reaction to this vehicle before taking a decision.