KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — With the introduction of the CKD (Completely Knocked-Down) version of its Volkswagen Polo sedan, Volkswagen Group Malaysia enters the highest fought sector of the market – the compact sedan category that is hotly contested by the Toyota Vios, Honda City, and Nissan Almera.
Assembled by its cooperation partner, DRB-HICOM at the DRB plant in Pekan, Pahang, the Polo sedan, hitherto sold as a CBU (Completely Built-Up) unit for a little over RM100,000, is now more competitively priced at RM87,778 in Peninsular Malaysia, making it a strong alternative choice for the would-be buyer who might otherwise have only the three major Japanese brands to consider.
The sweetener for the customer to swing towards the VW Polo sedan would be a 1.6-litre tried and tested engine that comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic. The Polo sedan also comes with German engineering, and offers a European car at a very affordable price tag.
Speaking at the media launch, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia, Dr Zeno Kerschbaumer said, “The introduction of the 2014 Polo sedan is significant for Volkswagen as this car marks the second locally-assembled model with our partner DRB-HICOM.”
“The locally-assembled Polo sedan carries a 100 per cent Volkswagen DNA that encompasses a strong heritage in German automotive engineering. We trust that the 2014 Polo sedan with its class-leading features will definitely give Malaysians a new level of affordability with uncompromised German technology. The strong support of DRB-HICOM as an esteemed partner in providing the automotive production complex further strengthens this achievement.
“Today’s media launch is an important highlight from the starting point in December 2010, when Volkswagen AG and DRB-HICOM signed a collaboration agreement for the assembly of Volkswagen vehicles in Malaysia. In March 2012, Volkswagen AG together with DRB-HICOM officially rolled out the first locally assembled Volkswagen Passat, a significant milestone that cemented Volkswagen’s pledge to offer more choices for Malaysians,” added Dr Kerschbaumer.
Best-in-class torque and fuel efficiency
Equipped with a 1.6-litre 105PS petrol injection 16-Valve Multi Point Injection (MPI) engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic, the 2014 Polo has excellent handling and the highest torque in its class with a maximum output of 153Nm at 3800 rpm. In addition to its strong drivability, the engine’s fuel efficiency is extraordinary – offering a combined fuel consumption of 6.5 litres per 100km, allowing drivers to go a distance of 15.4km per litre.
Enhanced features
The only car in its segment that provides various connectivity options to the customers, the 2014 Polo sedan comes with a new RCD 320 radio system with multi-language support, USB and iPod interface, SD card slot, AUX-in and Bluetooth connectivity. Setting it apart from its competitors, the car is equipped with class-leading features such as “Climatronic” automatic air conditioning system, rear air-conditioning vent and a new height-adjustable front centre armrest with storage box and rear cup holder.
Class-leading safety features
Similar to all other Volkswagen vehicles, a high level of safety is ensured in the 2014 Polo sedan. Equipped with dual front airbags and additional dual side airbags, the inclusion of Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) and anti-pinch windows in all four doors makes the car the only one in its class to feature such advanced safety level.
The 2014 Polo sedan comes with the standard 3-point safety belts for rear outboard occupants, child seat anchor (ISOFIX system), anti-theft alarm system and anti-lock braking system (ABS).
