Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, which encompasses both the Skoda and Volkswagen brands in the country, has entrusted the Czech automobile brand with managing its operations in India. The company is optimistic that the tariffs introduced by the Donald Trump administration could ultimately present new opportunities for India in the long run. At the launch event for the new Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line SUV, priced at ₹49 lakh (ex-showroom), the automaker expressed its disapproval of the new reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which are currently suspended for 90 days for non-retaliating nations. Nonetheless, they believe this situation may foster opportunities for Indian industries over time.

In an interview with PTI, Piyush Arora, Managing Director of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, emphasized the group's commitment to free trade and the exchange of technology between nations for the benefit of consumers. He acknowledged the prevailing uncertainty surrounding the recent tariff announcements from the US administration. "While we do not endorse the reciprocal tariffs, there are ongoing discussions about enhancing India's economy through bilateral trade or free trade agreements," he stated, as reported by PTI.

Arora further noted that the recent tariff developments could accelerate the long-discussed free trade agreements between India and the European Union. "I believe there are opportunities for India. We have consistently advocated for lower tariffs between Europe, whether through EU trade or bilateral FTAs that have been under consideration for quite some time. Although there may be short-term challenges due to increased tariffs affecting our component industry, which exports a significant volume of parts to the US, these initial tariffs could pose obstacles. However, in the long term, this situation may indeed create new opportunities," Arora concluded.

Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line to play a key role in the OEM's India strategy

The Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line, introduced as a sporty variant of the standard Tiguan, is anticipated to be a significant component of the German automaker's product strategy in India. Constructed on the MQB EVO platform, this new-generation flagship SUV features an updated chassis and is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI EVO engine. It is also equipped with a range of advanced features, including three-zone air-conditioning known as air-care climatronic, park assist plus with park distance control, and inductive charging capabilities for two smartphones. Ashish Gupta, Brand Director at Volkswagen India, remarked that the launch of the new Tiguan R-Line marks an exciting chapter for the brand in India. "With the introduction of the all-new Tiguan R-Line today, we are embarking on an exhilarating journey for Volkswagen in India, representing the future of premium mobility from our brand," he stated.

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