In the world of compact SUVs, the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are at the forefront. The Kia Sonet’s popularity is evident, with 80% of buyers choosing a sunroof. This shows that Indian buyers want top-notch features in their SUVs. Let’s compare these two vehicles, looking at their performance, features, and value in India for 2022.
The compact SUV market is booming, with the Taigun and Sonet leading the way. The Taigun starts at Rs 11.70 Lakh, while the Sonet begins at Rs 7.51 Lakh. But, it’s not just about the price. The Taigun has a powerful engine, and the Sonet offers great fuel efficiency.
Key Takeaways
- Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are two popular compact SUVs in India, with many features and specs.
- The Taigun is pricier but has a stronger engine, while the Sonet is cheaper and fuel-efficient.
- Both offer automatic transmissions but no diesel engines.
- The comparison also includes rivals like Skoda Kushaq, Hyundai Creta, Tata Nexon, and Kia Seltos in similar price ranges.
- Kia Sonet has hit 1 Lakh sales, with 80% of buyers choosing a sunroof.
Overview of the Compact SUV Segment
The compact SUV segment has seen a big rise in popularity. It attracts car buyers worldwide. These cars mix practicality, affordability, and modern features, appealing to many.
What Makes Compact SUVs Popular?
Compact SUVs are popular for several reasons. Their small size makes them easy to drive in cities. They also offer a lot of space for people and things. Plus, they’re priced well, reaching more people. And, they come with cool features and tech, making them even more appealing.
The Rise of Volkswagen Taigun
The Volkswagen Taigun is a big hit in the compact SUV world. It starts at Rs 11.70 Lakh for the 1.0 Comfortline (Petrol) model. It has a powerful 1.5-litre TSi engine. It also has automatic transmission, making driving a joy.
The Appeal of Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet is another top choice in compact SUVs. It starts at Rs 8 Lakh for the HTE (Petrol) model. It has various engine options, including diesel. Its stylish look, feature-rich interior, and good price make it popular.
Here’s a comparison of the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet:
| Specification | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (ex-showroom) | Rs 11.70 Lakh | Rs 8 Lakh |
| On-road Price | Rs 22,81,670* | Rs 17,19,635* |
| Engine Capacity (Petrol Top Model) | 1498 cc | 1493 cc |
| Mileage (Petrol Top Model) | 19.87 kmpl | 24.1 kmpl |
| Transmission Options | Automatic with both engine options | 5 transmission options |
As the compact SUV market grows, cars like the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet lead the way. They set high standards in design, performance, and features, attracting many buyers.
Design and Aesthetics
The Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet have different designs. The Taigun looks classy and sophisticated, fitting Volkswagen’s style. It has clean lines, an elegant grille, and refined proportions.
The Sonet, on the other hand, is bold and sporty. It has a muscular stance and dynamic lines. Features like the tiger-nose grille and sharp LED headlights make it eye-catching.
Interior Style and Comfort
Inside, both SUVs focus on style and comfort. They use premium materials and have soft-touch surfaces. The ergonomics are thoughtful, making the cabin experience pleasant.
| Feature | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Upholstery | Leatherette | Leatherette |
| Climate Control | Automatic | Automatic |
| Infotainment | 10.1-inch touchscreen | 10.25-inch touchscreen |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 8-inch | 4.2-inch |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Boot Space | 385 litres | 392 litres |
Both SUVs have spacious cabins with plenty of room. The seats are comfortable, making long rides enjoyable. They also have features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting for a luxurious feel.
Performance Comparison
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are high performers. The Taigun has a 1.0-litre TSI engine, while the Sonet offers petrol and diesel engines. Let’s explore their engines and how they drive.
Engine Specifications
The Volkswagen Taigun has a 1.0-litre TSI engine. It makes 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The Kia Sonet has a 1.2-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The petrol engine makes 82 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. The diesel engine makes 99 bhp and 240 Nm of torque.
| Specification | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 999 cc | 1197 cc (petrol), 1493 cc (diesel) |
| Peak Power Output | 114 bhp @ 5000-5500 rpm | 82 bhp @ 6000 rpm (petrol), 99 bhp @ 4000 rpm (diesel) |
| Peak Torque | 178 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm | 115 Nm @ 4200 rpm (petrol), 240 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (diesel) |
Driving Dynamics
The Volkswagen Taigun is fun to drive. It has responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension. It’s agile and easy to handle, making city driving a pleasure.
The Kia Sonet offers a balanced ride. It’s comfortable and handles well. The steering is light, making city driving easy.
Both cars have manual and automatic transmission options. The Taigun’s transmissions are smooth and precise. The Sonet’s transmissions offer a seamless drive.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet have cool tech features. They make driving more fun and convenient. These features keep you connected, entertained, and informed while you’re on the move.
Volkswagen Taigun’s Tech Offerings
The Volkswagen Taigun has an 8-inch touchscreen. It’s easy to use and connects to your phone smoothly. You can access apps, music, and maps easily.
It also has a digital instrument cluster. This shows you important info quickly and clearly.
Kia Sonet’s Infotainment Features
The Kia Sonet has a 7-inch touchscreen. It’s just as easy to use as the Taigun’s. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a smooth phone connection.
It also has a wireless charging pad. This means you can charge your phone without any cables.
Both SUVs have great sound systems. They have 6 speakers each. This makes music and podcasts sound amazing.
| Feature | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Display Size | 8 inches | 7 inches |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Wireless Charging | Not Available | Available |
Both SUVs make it easy to stay connected. They have voice commands and controls on the steering wheel. This lets you use your favorite features without taking your hands off the wheel.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is key in the compact SUV market. The Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet both focus on keeping drivers and passengers safe.
Volkswagen Taigun Safety Innovations
The Volkswagen Taigun comes with advanced safety features. These include:
- 6 airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Speed sensing door lock
- Overspeed warning: triggers 1 beep over 80 km/h and continuous beeps over 120 km/h
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Child seat anchor points
The Taigun’s safety features are expected to do well in crash tests. It has not been tested by Global NCAP yet.
Kia Sonet’s Safety Technologies
The Kia Sonet also has a lot of safety features. These include:
- 6 airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Speed sensing door lock
- Overspeed warning: triggers 1 beep over 80 km/h and continuous beeps over 120 km/h
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Child seat anchor points
The Kia Sonet has earned a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. This makes it one of the safest compact SUVs out there.
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet focus on keeping people safe. Here’s a comparison of their safety features:
| Safety Feature | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| NCAP Rating | Not tested | 5 Stars (Global NCAP) |
| Number of Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| Warranty Duration | 3 years | 4 years |
| Warranty Mileage | Unlimited | 100,000 km |
Even though they have similar safety features, the Kia Sonet’s 5-star Global NCAP rating gives it an edge. This rating shows it can protect occupants in crashes.
Space and Practicality
Compact SUVs need to be roomy and practical. The Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are great in this area. They offer lots of space for both people and stuff. Let’s look at how they meet your needs.
Dimensions and Cargo Space
The Taigun and Sonet are big for their size. The Taigun’s trunk is smaller but can hold a lot of luggage. The Sonet has a bigger trunk, with 500 liters of space. This means you can carry all your essentials easily.
| Dimension | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,221 mm | 4,120 mm |
| Width | 1,760 mm | 1,790 mm |
| Height | 1,612 mm | 1,618 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,651 mm | 2,500 mm |
Passenger Comfort in Both SUVs
Comfort is key, whether you’re on a long trip or driving around the city. The Taigun and Sonet make sure everyone is comfortable. They have enough legroom and headroom.
Both SUVs have adjustable seats for the driver and front passenger. The back seats are also spacious, but fitting three adults might be a bit tight. The Taigun has adjustable headrests for the rear seats. The Sonet has even more adjustable features for the backrest and headrest.
Driving Experience and Handling
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet offer unique driving experiences. They cater to different preferences. Let’s explore how these compact SUVs handle on the road.
Taigun’s Ride Quality
The Volkswagen Taigun provides a refined and comfortable ride. Its suspension absorbs bumps and uneven roads smoothly. This ensures a smooth journey for passengers.
During my 6 months and 6,000 km with the Taigun, I loved its plush ride. The steering is precise and well-weighted. It offers excellent feedback and control.
Whether in city traffic or on highways, the Taigun feels confident. Its suspension balances comfort and stability. It minimizes body roll and feels planted even during spirited driving.
Sonet’s Handling Characteristics
The Kia Sonet has a firmer suspension than the Taigun. This makes for a more engaging and sporty drive. Its suspension is tuned for agility on twisty roads.
The Sonet’s steering is quick and accurate. It provides precise inputs and feedback. The firm suspension minimizes body roll, keeping the Sonet composed during aggressive cornering.
While the ride is firmer than the Taigun’s, it’s not uncomfortable. It balances sportiness and comfort well.
| Feature | Volkswagen Taigun | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Steering Adjustment | Manual Tilt & Telescopic | Tilt only |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | Available | Available |
Both SUVs have essential safety features like TPMS. The Taigun also has manual tilt and telescopic steering. This allows drivers to find their perfect driving position.
The choice between the Taigun’s comfort and the Sonet’s handling depends on personal preference. The Taigun is great for those who value comfort. The Sonet is ideal for driving enthusiasts seeking a more engaging experience.
Fuel Efficiency
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are known for their fuel efficiency. The Taigun’s 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine gets around 17-19 kmpl. This is great for saving on fuel costs. The Sonet, with its petrol and diesel engines, offers a mileage of 18-24 kmpl. This depends on the variant and how you drive.
Taigun’s Average Mileage
The Volkswagen Taigun has a 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine. It claims an ARAI-claimed mileage of 17 kmpl. This means you can drive about 850 km on a 50-litre tank.
In real life, drivers get around 15-16 kmpl in the city. On highways, it’s 18-19 kmpl. This is impressive for a compact SUV.
Sonet’s Fuel Economy
The Kia Sonet offers petrol and diesel engines. The 1.2-litre petrol engine gets 19.89 kmpl. The 1.5-litre diesel engine is even better, with up to 24 kmpl.
With a 50-litre tank, the Sonet can go up to 995 km on one tank. This makes it perfect for long trips.
| Model | ARAI Mileage (kmpl) | Driving Range (km) | Fuel Tank Capacity (L) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Taigun | 17 | 850 | 50 |
| Kia Sonet | 19.89 | 995 | 50 |
| Tata Nexon | 17.44 | 767 | 44 |
Compared to the Tata Nexon, the Taigun and Sonet are more fuel-efficient. The Nexon gets 17.44 kmpl and 16.38 kmpl in the city. The Taigun and Sonet offer better mileage. They are great for those who want a stylish SUV without spending too much on fuel.
Pricing and Value for Money
Choosing the right compact SUV means looking at price and value. The Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are top picks. They offer great features and are affordable.
Taigun Pricing Breakdown
The Volkswagen Taigun starts at ₹10,89,000 for the Comfortline. It goes up to ₹18,69,000 for the GT Plus Sport. Here’s a look at the Taigun’s prices:
| Variant | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Comfortline | ₹10,89,000 |
| Highline | ₹13,38,000 – ₹14,83,000 |
| Highline Plus | ₹14,26,900 – ₹15,36,900 |
| GT Line | ₹14,66,900 – ₹15,76,900 |
| Topline | ₹16,47,900 – ₹17,87,900 |
| GT (150PS) | ₹16,77,400 |
| GT Plus (150PS) | ₹17,19,000 |
| GT Plus Sport (150PS) | ₹17,49,000 |
| GT | ₹15,99,000 |
| GT Plus | ₹18,39,000 |
| GT Plus Sport | ₹18,69,000 |
The Taigun has many variants for different budgets. Here are some popular prices:
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol Comfortline: ₹11,55,900
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol Topline: ₹15,65,900
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol GT: ₹15,95,900
- Automatic 1.0L Turbo Petrol Highline: ₹14,95,900
- Automatic 1.0L Turbo Petrol Topline: ₹17,15,900
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol GT Plus: ₹18,70,900
Sonet Cost Analysis
The Kia Sonet starts at ₹7,51,000 and goes up to ₹13,04,000. The HTK 1.0 Turbo 6MT variant is priced well, between ₹10,00,000 and ₹16,00,000. This makes it a great choice for those on a budget.
The Sonet is more affordable than the Taigun. Kia also offers benefits up to ₹2,50,000. This makes the Sonet even more appealing.
Both the Taigun and Sonet offer great value. The Taigun has a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. The Sonet gets high scores for comfort and value.
Choosing between the Taigun and Sonet depends on your budget and preferences. Both SUVs offer great features and value for money in the compact SUV segment.
Conclusion and Recommendations
After looking closely at the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet, we see they each have special qualities. The Taigun starts at ₹11.70 lakh and offers a luxury driving feel. It has a 1.0L TSI petrol engine that’s very efficient. It also has a 5-star safety rating and a big 10-inch touchscreen.
The Kia Sonet, starting at ₹8.66 lakh, is a budget-friendly choice. It doesn’t skimp on style or tech. It has engines that save fuel, and a big 10.25-inch touchscreen with a Bose sound system.
Which Compact SUV is Right for You?
When picking a compact SUV, think about your budget, how much you care about fuel, safety, and inside features. The Taigun is great for those who want a fun, feature-packed SUV. The Sonet is perfect for those who want a stylish, techy car without spending a lot.
Final Thoughts on Volkswagen Taigun vs Kia Sonet
In summary, both the Volkswagen Taigun and Kia Sonet are top picks in the compact SUV market. The Taigun is for those who want a premium, fun SUV. The Sonet is for those who want a stylish, techy car at a lower price.
Choosing between the two depends on what you value most and how much you can spend. By looking at this guide and comparing the Taigun and Sonet, you can pick the best SUV for you.
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