Volkswagen and Skoda to reportedly offer new features in MQB-A0-IN-based cars

Gajanan Kashikar Updated: December 30, 2022, 08:54 PM IST

Volkswagen and Skoda are reportedly planning to offer new features in the Kushaq, Taigun, Slavia, and Virtus as a part of the 2023 model year update. Not only these cars are said to come with new features, but there could also be new exterior paint options.

Rumours have it that the SUVs and sedans will come equipped with a handful of additional features, such as an electronically adjustable front seat and foot well lights. Notably, the Kushaq and Taigun rivals, such as the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and MG Astor get a powered front seat. Hyundai also offers an electronically adjustable driver seat in the new Venue. On the other hand, the Hyundai Verna and Honda City, the Slavia and Virtus rivals, do not have powered seat adjustment. Thus, the Virtus and Slavia could become the first C-segment sedans to offer that feature.

The Taigun, Virtus, Slavia, and Kushaq are developed under India 2.0 project and are being manufactured with a localisation level of 95 per cent. Additionally, all four models use the MQB-A0-IN platform.

The models share the same 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine producing 115PS and 178Nm of torque and a 1.5-litre, inline-four, turbocharged petrol motor that generates 150PS and 250Nm of torque. Both units are available in three transmission options: a six-speed manual, a six-speed torque-convertor automatic, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

In July this year, Volkswagen introduced an updated 1.5-litre TSI evo2 (codenamed EA 211) engine. The update brings improved fuel efficiency while reducing tailpipe emissions. Notably, this new version is suitable for various kinds of electrification and can run on fuel with renewable content. The 1.5-litre TSI evo2 can generate 272PS with a plug-in hybrid powertrain concept. More to the point, Volkswagen and Skoda may consider the newer version of the 1.5-litre for Kushaq, Taigun, Virtus, and Slavia in the rumoured MY2023 update.

Honda City 2021 Full Spec

Price (Ex-Delhi)
Starts Rs 10.9 Lakhs

Displacement
1497cc

Transmission
Manual

Max Power(ps)
100

Max Torque(Nm)
145

Mileage
17.8 Kmpl

Hyundai Creta 2020 Full Spec

Price (Ex-Delhi)
Starts Rs 9.99 Lakhs

Displacement
1353cc

Transmission
Automatic

Max Power(ps)
115