- Manual Variants limited only to 1.0-litre engine
- Similar update implemented for Skoda Kushaq and Slavia
Volkswagen India has discontinued the manual transmission option for the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol variants of the Virtus sedan and the Taigun SUV. The larger turbo-petrol engine is now available only with an automatic gearbox across both model lines.
Earlier, the 1.5-litre TSI engine could be had with a six-speed manual transmission in select trims of the Virtus and Taigun. With this update, customers looking for a manual gearbox will now have to opt for the smaller 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine, which continues to be offered with a manual transmission.
The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol motor produces 148bhp and 250Nm of torque and is now exclusively paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain remains positioned as the performance-focused option in both the Virtus and Taigun lineups.
While Volkswagen has not officially stated the reason behind the move, it is likely aimed at streamlining the variant lineup and aligning with buyer preferences, as demand for automatic transmissions continues to rise in higher-output petrol models. Customers interested in the discontinued manual variants may still be able to secure remaining stock at select dealerships, subject to availability.
