VW's Steffen Knapp lays out future product plan for India

During a recent interview, Steffen Knapp, Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, laid out VW's future product plan for the Indian market. 

In 2018, the carmaker will be focusing on the newly launched Tiguan and Passat as well as special edition versions of existing cars. Among the so-called "action models" which are currently being evaluated is the Ameo GT TSI - a compact sedan powered by a turbocharged petrol engine paired with a DSG gearbox. Depending on the market sentiment, VW might launch the Ameo GT TSI this year.

When asked about VW's plans to introduce the MQB platform in India, Knapp said that the company is working with Skoda to develop next-gen products based on the MQB architecture that would suit the Indian market. 

The 2018 Polo is based on VW's MQB platform but since its overall length is more than 4 meters, it would require some tweaking before it makes its way into India. 

Another MQB-based car that could be introduced in the near future is the Virtus sedan. It was recently launched in the South American market and is seen as the potential replacement for the Vento in India. But, more than the Virtus, VW is keenly looking into the CUV and SUV segment below the Tiguan. It is something the management has put on a high priority. Speaking of SUVs, the T-Roc could be evaluated in the future, but only if it makes a strong business case.

Moreover, the new Jetta won't make it to India. The latest model has been developed for left-hand drive markets and is highly unlikely to be launched here. Further, VW does not see a market for the Golf and e-Golf electric hatchback currently in India. Similarly, the local market isn't suitable for VW's MPV line up, either.

Source - Car and Bike via Periscope