Renault Duster Vs Volkswagen Taigun Facelift: Specifications Compared, Dimensions, Features, Safety And Powertrain

The Renault Duster recently made its India comeback after being discontinued in 2022. The Duster is now even more stylish, feature-rich, and comes with capable powertrain options. On the other hand, Volkswagen recently launched the facelifted version of the Taigun with updated styling, additional features, and a slight change to the powertrain.

If you are in the market for a new compact SUV, both the Taigun and the Duster are worth considering. So how do they compare, and which one is more suited for you? Let’s understand this by taking a closer look at their specifications, features, dimensions, and powertrains.

Price

• At Rs 10.49 lakh, the Duster’s starting price is Rs 51,000 lesser than that of the Taigun.

• This gap widens with top-spec variants where the Renault Duster is more affordable by around Rs 80,000. 

Let’s take a look at the specifications of both these SUVs: 

Dimensions

• As you can see, the Duster is significantly longer, wider, and taller than the new Taigun.

• The larger size gives the Duster a better road presence, while the Taigun looks compact in comparison. 

• There is hardly any difference between their wheelbases, so one can expect a similar cabin space.

Colour Options

*Also available with black roof in select variants

• Both SUVs offer a wide range of colours to choose from, although the Taigun goes the extra length with 9 total options including a unique matte finish with the Carbon Steel colour.

• The Duster on the other hand keeps things simpler with 6 colour options. You can take a look at them here.

Powertrain

DCT- dual clutch transmission, AT- torque converter automatic transmission

• Both SUVs come with a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine as their base powertrain option, although the one in the Taigun produces more output . 

• Renault only offers a manual gearbox with the 1-litre engine, while the Taigun 1-litre mill also comes with a new 8-speed AT.

• Both SUVs also get more potent turbo-petrol engines. The Taigun gets a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, while the Duster gets a smaller 1.3-litre unit with mild-hybrid assist. 

• The 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine of the Duster makes the most output in this comparison. 

• If you want the more powerful engine of the Taigun, you can only get it with a DCT automatic option.

Features

• Both come with plenty of convenience and feel-good features like powered and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, and large displays for the infotainment and instrument cluster.

• The Duster adds extras like a dual-zone climate control, a powered tailgate, multiple drive modes, and even built-in Google OS. 

CarDekho Says…

If driving feel is your top priority, then both these SUVs make a strong case. The Taigun’s 1-litre turbo engine is punchier than the Duster’s equivalent, and the availability of both an 8-speed automatic with the smaller engine and a refined 1.5-litre turbo with DSG makes it a compelling pick for enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving on city roads and highways. The Duster’s 1.3-litre engine might be smaller in size, but it makes more output, and caters to the enthusiast inside you. Both these SUVs also provide top-notch handling and steering feedback.

However, the Renault Duster takes the lead as a more well-rounded SUV. It offers a larger, more practical cabin with significantly better boot space, more features, and the most powerful engine in this comparison. It also feels more rugged and SUV-like, which will appeal to buyers looking for a tougher, more versatile package.

So, the choice is simple: pick the Taigun if you value European styling and German driving dynamics, or if you simply want the iconic GT badging of the Taigun. But if you want a bigger, more feature-loaded, and more practical SUV with a stronger road presence, the Duster makes a stronger case overall. It is also important to note that the Duster will be lighter on your pocket if you compare the respective top-spec variants. 

Other Options To Consider 

We have also compared the new Duster with a few other options in the segment. Check out the details below: 

Hyundai Creta: Reliable, popular, and trusted by many. Offers multiple variants and powertrain options to choose from, which makes it suitable for buyers with different budgets.

Kia Seltos: Largest car in its segment with one of the most modern interiors and new styling. Offers a family-friendly package that includes plenty of creature comforts, advanced safety features, multiple powertrains, and good ergonomics.

Maruti Victoris: A more modern and enhanced version of the Maruti Grand Vitara, featuring the same efficient and capable powertrain options, impressive ride comfort, and even more features. 

Maruti Grand Vitara/Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder: Reliable SUVs with a well-rounded package, modern styling, fuel-efficient powertrains (including strong-hybrid options), and one of the best ride qualities in the segment.

Tata Sierra: An SUV with the top features, good road presence, impressive cabin space, and ride comfort. Multiple powertrain options and variants to choose from make it a good fit for different needs.

MG Astor: One of the oldest cars in the segment available without any update, but also one of the most affordable ones currently. It still offers a premium interior experience in the entire segment. Only gets a single NA petrol engine option and also misses out on a few features compared to its rivals. 

Honda Elevate: One of the most reliable SUVs in the segment, with proven Japanese engineering. Misses out on a few features, but gets the basics right. Available with a single petrol engine, it offers good space inside and a comfortable ride quality.