Volkswagen Tayron R-Line Makes Its Indian Debut, Takes on Toyota Fortuner
Volkswagen India has officially introduced the new Volkswagen Tayron R-Line three-row SUV to the Indian automotive market. This premium offering now occupies the top position in Volkswagen's India lineup, serving as an extended, seven-seat version of the Tiguan R-Line. With larger overall dimensions to accommodate a third row of seats, the Tayron enters a competitive segment, challenging rivals like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, upcoming MG Majestor, Jeep Meridian, and Skoda Kodiaq. In this detailed comparison, we explore how the Tayron R-Line stacks up against the Toyota Fortuner in terms of pricing, specifications, features, and more.
Volkswagen Tayron R-Line vs Toyota Fortuner: Pricing and Variants
The Volkswagen Tayron is available in a single, fully loaded R-Line trim in India, with an ex-showroom price of Rs 46.99 lakh. Pre-bookings are now open, allowing interested customers to reserve the SUV with a pre-booking amount of Rs 51,000, either by visiting their nearest Volkswagen dealership or through online channels. The Tayron R-Line will be assembled at Volkswagen's plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad).
In contrast, the Toyota Fortuner is offered in three variants: Fortuner 4x2, Fortuner Sigma 4, Fortuner Neo Drive, and GR S, with prices ranging from Rs 34.1 lakh to Rs 49.5 lakh (ex-showroom). The Fortuner is locally produced at Toyota's manufacturing facility in Bidadi, Karnataka, providing a cost advantage through domestic assembly.
Volkswagen Tayron R-Line vs Toyota Fortuner: Dimensions and Space
The Volkswagen Tayron R-Line measures 4792 mm in length, 1866 mm in width, 1665 mm in height, and boasts a wheelbase of 2789 mm. It offers a ground clearance of 181 mm and provides boot space of 345 litres with all three rows up, expanding to 850 litres when the third row is folded down.
The Toyota Fortuner, on the other hand, has dimensions of 4795 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, 1835 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2745 mm. It features a higher ground clearance of 225 mm and offers boot space of 296 litres with three rows up, increasing to 716 litres with the third row folded.
Overall, the Tayron R-Line is slightly shorter and wider than the Fortuner, with a longer wheelbase but lower ground clearance. It also delivers superior boot capacity in both three-row and two-row configurations, making it a more practical choice for families and long trips.
Volkswagen Tayron R-Line vs Toyota Fortuner: Engine and Drivetrain
Under the hood, the Tayron R-Line is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that generates 204 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox, with power sent to all four wheels for enhanced traction and performance.
The Toyota Fortuner comes with a single engine option: a 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 201 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque in manual transmission versions, or 500 Nm in automatic variants. It offers two gearbox choices: a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Additionally, the Fortuner incorporates a 48V mild-hybrid system, which includes a belt-integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery for improved efficiency. The Fortuner is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 variants, equipped with five multi-terrain modes for off-road capability.
Volkswagen Tayron R-Line vs Toyota Fortuner: Features and Safety
The Tayron R-Line is packed with advanced features, including a large 15-inch touchscreen angled towards the driver, which controls most vehicle functions. The leather-appointed front seats retain massage functions from the Tiguan R-Line, but replace seat heating with front-seat ventilation, better suited to India's climate. Other highlights comprise a fully digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, customisable ambient lighting with up to 30 colour options, and Matrix LED lighting technology.
The Toyota Fortuner features an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car technology, a semi-digital cluster, 8-way power-adjustable and ventilated seats for both driver and co-driver, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, front parking sensors, ambient lighting, and a wireless charger. On the safety front, it includes a rear camera with sensors, seven airbags, stability control, ABS with EBD, and hill assist control, ensuring robust protection for occupants.
In summary, the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line brings a fresh, feature-rich option to the Indian SUV market, competing closely with the established Toyota Fortuner. While the Tayron offers modern petrol power and superior interior tech, the Fortuner counters with diesel efficiency, hybrid technology, and proven off-road prowess. Buyers must weigh these factors based on their preferences for performance, comfort, and value.
