Biplab Das 
Volkswagen India has announced a significant safety upgrade across all variants of its Taigun and Virtus models. The carmaker will now include six airbags as standard, reinforcing its commitment to passenger safety.
Volkswagen’s decision to standardise six airbags in the Taigun and Virtus comes as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance vehicle safety. Both models have already earned 5-star ratings from the Global NCAP, underscoring their robust safety features for both adult and child occupants.
“Today, we take great pride in announcing our portfolio of India 2.0 cars offering 6 airbags as standard across the line-up,” stated Ashish Gupta, Brand Director at Volkswagen Passenger Cars India. “With this, we are showcasing our commitment towards safer mobility and reaffirming our core belief that safety is a key product pillar for Volkswagen India.”
Success of Taigun and Virtus
The Taigun and Virtus have been pivotal in Volkswagen India’s recent sales achievements. The Taigun, in particular, has been a standout performer, contributing to over 61% of the sales that pushed the India 2.0 cars past the 100,000 sales milestone. Meanwhile, the Virtus has established itself as a preferred choice in the premium mid-size sedan segment.
Volkswagen has also noted strong demand for the GT variants of both models, with approximately 40% of customers opting for these high-performance versions.
Expanding product portfolio
Since launching its India 2.0 strategy, Volkswagen has continuously expanded its product offerings to meet diverse customer demands. This includes introducing new variants like the Taigun GT Line based on the 1.0-litre TSI engine and the GT Plus Sport powered by the 1.5-litre TSI EVO engine.
Volkswagen has also strengthened its presence across India, with a network of 208 sales and pre-owned car touchpoints, and 142 service touchpoints spread across 155 cities. These efforts are part of the company’s broader strategy to enhance customer accessibility and after-sales services.
Competitive landscape
Volkswagen’s move comes shortly after Skoda Auto India enhanced the safety features of its Kushaq mid-size SUV and Slavia sedan by standardising six airbags. This update is part of Skoda’s MY2024 enhancements for its India 2.0 product portfolio, reflecting a broader industry trend towards improving vehicle safety.
Commitment to safety
Volkswagen’s focus on safety is in line with global trends and consumer expectations. By offering six airbags as standard, the company aims to provide an added layer of protection for passengers, addressing a critical aspect of vehicle safety that is often a key factor in purchasing decisions.
In a market where safety is becoming increasingly important to consumers, Volkswagen’s latest initiative is likely to resonate well. The inclusion of six airbags aligns with international safety standards, helping to ensure that Volkswagen’s vehicles remain competitive and appealing to safety-conscious buyers.
Looking ahead
As Volkswagen continues to enhance its product offerings and expand its reach in the Indian market, the focus on safety and customer satisfaction remains paramount. The standardisation of six airbags in the Taigun and Virtus is a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, and reliable vehicles to its customers.
With these updates, Volkswagen not only reinforces its position in the Indian automotive market but also sets a benchmark for other manufacturers to follow. The emphasis on safety, coupled with the brand’s renowned German engineering, ensures that Volkswagen remains a strong contender in the competitive landscape of the Indian automotive industry.
Volkswagen India’s move to standardise six airbags across all variants of the Taigun and Virtus underscores its dedication to passenger safety and aligns with global safety standards. As the company continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it remains committed to delivering vehicles that meet the highest standards of safety and performance. This initiative is a significant step in Volkswagen’s journey towards becoming a leader in the Indian automotive market, providing customers with safer, more reliable vehicles.
