German giant automaker Volkswagen came to KLIMS 2013 with a big troop occupying 1,100sqm of area in Hall 2 as the largest exhibitor in this event. Among the ‘attractions’ VW offers at the motor show is its special VW Beetle Fender edition, the rally champ machine VW Polo WRC, a cut out model of a Golf, and all other VW models that are available in Malaysia. The highlight of the event is the national premiere of the locally assembled new Polo 1.6.
Volkswagen has set foot in Malaysia and started assembling their cars locally together with its local partner DRB-Hicom. The assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang started off by offering CKD models of the Passat. Recently the 2014 Polo Sedan was launched and now, the New Polo 1.6. VW’s decision to assemble the Polo models is to target young and design-oriented Malaysian car buyers, offering affordable German engineered cars.
There are some changes or rather improvements as compared to the current CBU model. It is now fitted with a RCD 320 radio system which is said to offer best-in-class connectivity, the air conditioning is now a ‘Climatronic’ system, and it has a Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS). In terms of cosmetic changes, the front grille has an additional chrome grille, the headlights and taillights are also new.
The new Polo now runs on a 1.6L petrol injection 16-valve MPI engine that produces 105 horsepower and a maximum torque of 153Nm at 3800rpm. It has a 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic, no more 7-speed DSG. Fuel consumption wise, 6.3 litres per 100km or 15.9km per litre.
Dr Zeno Kerschbaumer, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia says this new Polo 1.6 is set to reach the most important segment in the local automotive market. Its sport and dynamic design is targeted at younger audience or the young-at-heart customers. As for the price, no announcement yet at the moment, however we were told it will be around the range of the 2014 Polo Sedan. So, is RM85,000 ok with you?
Volkswagen’s booth is definitely one of the most exciting ones at KLIMS with this special edition Beetle, which comes with a talented guitarist. The Beetle Fender Edition is basically a ‘mobile amplifier’, with the sound system designed by Fender it has eight speakers, a subwoofer and a 400-watt amp. You can basically plug in your electric guitar and start playing like you are at a concert. Sitting in this Beetle feels like you’re in a Fender guitar. Inspired by the sunburst design of the icone Fender Stratocaster guitar, the dashboard is really beautiful. This however is not for sale. It is only available in the UK and US. Well, if you really want one, get a Beetle and fix some Fender amps in it.
The cut out model of a Golf at the event is eye-catching. This model is specially made to show the technology that VW currently apply on to their current Golf and other models to come. The clever technology enables their new Golf to strengthen and at the same time shed about 100kg of weight, making it much lighter thus more fuel efficient. It is amazing to see how these automakers strive to make the safest and best for us all to enjoy on the roads.
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