Volkswagen Discontinues Virtus and Taigun 1.5L TSI Manual Variants

Volkswagen India has quietly discontinued the six-speed manual gearbox on the 1.5-litre turbo petrol-powered variants of the Virtus and Taigun. Both models will now be exclusively available with a seven-speed DSG transmission.  This change follows a similar move by Skoda India, which axed the manual option from its Slavia and Kushaq 1.5 TSI models back in September 2024. 

The Virtus and Taigun still offer the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, which produces about 148 BHP and 250 Nm of torque but solely with a 7-speed DSG. 

Now, the entry prices for these engine variants have risen to about ₹18.80 lakh for the Virtus and ₹18.95 lakh for the Taigun with the DSG. This increase of around ₹1.5 lakh might push some buyers toward the ₹1.0-litre models or competitors. 

Those looking to buy 1.5 TSI manual variants of the Virtus and Taigun are advised to reach out to their nearest Volkswagen dealerships before stocks run out.

Also Read: Skoda Kushaq Facelift Teased: Launch Soon

Why Did VW Discontinue The 1.5 Manual?

Well, they haven’t said anything officially, but the lack of buyer interest seems to be the most plausible reason. After all, not every Indian buyer prioritises driver engagement when spending around ₹15 lakh on a car. For most, it is about a sense of premiumness, which usually translates to a smooth and reliable automatic gearbox, something Volkswagen does particularly well. Also, changing gears manually in jammed-up traffic stretches is not exactly fun.

 If you are looking for a manual sedan in the 150 BHP range, the Hyundai Verna is your only option, and it starts at ₹16.92 lakh on road. For a similarly powered turbo petrol Manual SUV, the Hyundai Creta N Line, Mahindra XUV 7XO, and Tata Sierra with its Hyperion engine are your latest and greatest choices

Image Source: VW MEDIA