Volkswagen to Unleash Product Offensive in 2025: From Hot Hatches to Electric SUVs

Volkswagen is gearing up for a significant product launch in India throughout 2025. Following a relatively subdued 2024, the German automaker plans to expand its premium offerings with a mix of imported and locally assembled models.

Key highlights include the introduction of the high-performance Tiguan R and the highly anticipated Golf GTI, both arriving as limited imports. The brand will also enter the three-row SUV segment with the Tayron, a larger and more spacious alternative to the Tiguan AllSpace. Furthermore, Volkswagen will introduce the facelifted ID.4 electric SUV, while also refreshing its existing Taigun and Virtus models with mid-life updates to maintain competitiveness in the Indian market.

Tiguan R: A Performance Pinnacle

The Tiguan R, the range-topping performance variant of the Tiguan, is set to make its Indian debut in the second quarter of 2025. Powered by a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine delivering over 250 horsepower, the Tiguan R will boast aggressive styling and enhanced performance features. As a fully imported model, it is expected to command a premium price tag, likely exceeding Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom).

Golf GTI: A Legend Arrives

After years of anticipation, the iconic Golf GTI is finally coming to India. Expected to arrive in mid-2025, this high-performance hatchback will be imported under the government’s homologation-free route, allowing for the introduction of up to 2,500 units annually. Equipped with a 245 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, the Golf GTI will offer exhilarating performance with a claimed 0-100kph time of 6.4 seconds. It is expected to be priced between Rs 45 lakh and Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom).

Tayron: Expanding Horizons

The Tayron, a three-row SUV designed to rival the Skoda Kodiaq and Jeep Meridian, is slated for an Indian launch in the third quarter of 2025. While international markets offer diesel and plug-in hybrid options, the Indian market is likely to receive the Tayron with a 2.0-liter petrol engine. This spacious SUV features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering a premium in-cabin experience. It is expected to be priced around Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom) and will likely be locally assembled.

ID.4 Facelift: Electrifying the Future

The facelifted ID.4 electric SUV is expected to arrive in India late this year. Building upon the success of the current model, the facelift will likely retain the 77kWh battery pack while incorporating minor styling updates and enhanced features. The Indian market may receive either the 204hp rear-wheel-drive or the 265hp all-wheel-drive variant. As a fully imported model, the ID.4 is expected to be priced around Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom).

Taigun and Virtus Facelifts: Reinforcing the Core

Recognizing the evolving Indian market and the gradual transition to electric vehicles, Volkswagen will introduce mid-life updates for the Taigun and Virtus. These updates will include refreshed styling, new alloy wheels, and the addition of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). While the exterior will undergo minor changes, the core powertrain options – the 1.0-liter and 1.5-liter petrol engines – will be carried over.

This product offensive demonstrates Volkswagen’s commitment to the Indian market and its ambition to cater to a wider range of customer preferences. With a diverse lineup encompassing performance models, spacious SUVs, and electric vehicles, Volkswagen aims to strengthen its position and drive future growth in the Indian automotive landscape.