Rahul Somvanshi
Volkswagen is preparing to inject new life into its Indian lineup with the introduction of two performance-focused models by mid-2025. The German automaker will launch the iconic Golf GTI and the sportier Tiguan R-Line, marking a significant shift in its brand strategy for the Indian market.
According to Ashish Gupta, Volkswagen India Brand Director, the company is dubbing 2025 as the year of “Progressive Performance.” The launches aim to elevate the brand’s positioning in India beyond its established reputation for German engineering and build quality.
“We want to make sure that we continue to grow in the Indian market. We want to take the brand even higher up in terms of customer accessibility, awareness, and brand image,” Gupta told reporters. “We now want to take it up a notch higher with the introduction of our global iconic products, which signify performance.”
Legendary Models Coming to Indian Roads
The Golf GTI, expected to arrive by April 2025, brings with it a 50-year legacy. This performance variant features twin-pod LED headlights, 18-inch Richmond diamond-cut alloy wheels, and wraparound LED tail lights. Under the hood, it packs a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 265 PS and 370 Nm of torque.
Inside, drivers will find an all-black cabin with sport seats, tartan seat upholstery, GTI steering, and a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The Tiguan R-Line, scheduled for launch by April 2025, represents a sportier take on Volkswagen’s popular SUV. It features larger air intake channels, a tweaked front bumper, 20-inch alloy wheels, and exclusive ‘R’ badges. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine generating 190 PS and 320 Nm of torque. The interior offers an all-black cabin with a 12.9-inch touchscreen and panoramic sunroof.
Limited Availability, Premium Positioning
Both models will be imported as fully built units under the ‘GSR 870 rule’, which restricts volumes to 2,500 units a year, across models imported as fully-built units by the group. For the Golf GTI, the company plans to bring around 150 cars in the second quarter, while the Tiguan R-Line will see approximately 300 units.
This limited availability positions these vehicles as exclusive offerings in the Indian market, with expected prices of Rs 52 lakh for the Golf GTI and Rs 55 lakh for the Tiguan R-Line (ex-showroom).
The move comes amid modest growth for Volkswagen in India, with the company reporting a 3% increase in sales volumes year-to-date February 2025 compared to last year. In 2024, Volkswagen India sold 42,500 units.
Industry analysts suggest these performance-oriented models could attract a new segment of enthusiasts to the brand, potentially boosting Volkswagen’s market share in the premium segment where customers prioritize driving experience and brand prestige.
More Models on the Horizon
Beyond these two performance models, Volkswagen is also planning to introduce the Tayron SUV by the end of 2025. First showcased at the Beijing Motor Show last year, the Tayron will compete with vehicles like the Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner, and Jeep Meridian.
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The Tayron will feature a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, turbo petrol engine paired with a 7-speed transmission system and optional all-wheel drive. Power output ranges from 184 HP and 320 Nm for the base variant to 217 HP and 350 Nm for the top trim.
Premium features include front passenger seats with memory function, 10-point massaging seats with heating and ventilation, wireless phone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a head-up display.
Additionally, Volkswagen plans to update its existing Virtus and Taigun models in 2025, rounding out a busy year for the German automaker in India.
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