Volkswagen Passenger Cars India has opened pre-bookings for the Tayron R-Line, marking the German automaker’s entry into the premium seven-seat SUV segment. The model, scheduled to be launched later this month, can be booked with a token amount of ₹51,000 through authorised dealerships and the company’s digital platforms.

Foray into premium seven-seat SUV space

The Tayron R-Line will be positioned as Volkswagen’s flagship SUV for the Indian market and will be locally assembled. The move underlines the company’s strategy to deepen its presence in higher-value segments, as demand continues to shift towards larger, feature-rich SUVs.

The premium seven-seater category has seen heightened competition in recent years, driven by buyers seeking a combination of space, safety features and advanced technology, alongside strong on-road performance.

Focus on technology and safety

The Tayron R-Line comes equipped with 14 Level 2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features, along with nine airbags and electronic stability control. The company said the SUV is among the most comprehensively equipped in its segment from a safety standpoint.

Other technology-led features include a large 15-inch infotainment screen, a fully digital instrument cluster, an augmented reality head-up display and three-zone climate control. The model also offers electrically adjustable front seats with memory and ventilation functions, along with a panoramic sunroof.

Performance-oriented positioning

Powering the Tayron R-Line is a 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine that delivers 204 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system.

According to the company, the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.3 seconds, positioning it towards the performance-focused end of the premium seven-seat SUV spectrum.

Portfolio expansion amid intensifying competition

Volkswagen’s move comes at a time when competition in the premium SUV space is intensifying, with global automakers increasingly betting on higher-margin models to drive growth in India.

Volkswagen’s move comes at a time when competition in the premium SUV space is intensifying, with global automakers increasingly leaning on higher-margin models to drive growth in India. In the ₹45–60 lakh segment, the Tayron R-Line is expected to take on rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner and Fortuner Legender, Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian, MG Gloster and Hyundai Tucson, where buyers are placing growing emphasis on safety tech, performance credentials and brand positioning.

Volkswagen’s current India lineup includes the Taigun, Virtus, Tiguan R-Line and the Golf GTI.