Volkswagen India has streamlined the powertrain options for its India 2.0 models, removing the six-speed manual transmission from the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine lineup. The 150hp, 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI engine, previously available with both manual and automatic choices, is now exclusively paired with the seven-speed dual-clutch (DSG) gearbox across the Virtus sedan and Taigun SUV ranges.
Shift in Powertrain Strategy
The 1.5 TSI manual variants were originally introduced to provide a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts and a more accessible price point for the higher-performance engine. With this revision, customers seeking a manual gearbox in a Volkswagen must now opt for the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, which delivers 115hp. This move mirrors a decision made by Skoda India in September 2024, when the manual 1.5 TSI variants of the Slavia and Kushaq were also phased out.
- Engine: 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol (TSI)
- Power/Torque: 150hp / 250Nm
- New Transmission Standard: 7-speed DSG only
- Remaining Manual Option: 1.0-litre TSI (115hp)
Pricing and Market Impact
The removal of the manual transmission has effectively increased the entry-level price for the 1.5 TSI variants. Previously, the Virtus 1.5 TSI MT was priced between Rs 17.09 lakh and Rs 17.33 lakh, while the Taigun 1.5 TSI MT was positioned at Rs 17.04 lakh. The current starting prices for the 1.5 TSI models, now DSG-only, are as follows:
- Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus Chrome (DSG): Rs 18.80 lakh
- Volkswagen Taigun GT Plus Chrome (DSG): Rs 18.95 lakh
- Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus Sport (DSG): Rs 19.00 lakh
- Volkswagen Taigun GT Plus Sport (DSG): Rs 19.19 lakh
In the current competitive landscape, the Hyundai Verna remains the only midsize sedan in the Indian market to offer a four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a manual transmission. All listed prices are ex-showroom, India.
