It was a pretty big media turn-out at the official launch of the 2014 CKD VW Polo Sedan recently, considering the location, but there was a good reason for that. It’s probably one of the most highly-anticipated launches of a locally-assembled car this year, and the question on everyone’s lips was “how much?”
That was revealed in a rather unique way when Dr Zeno Kerschbaumer the Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia, removed the number plate of the CKD Polo Sedan on stage only to reveal the price below it. A collective gasp emanated from all present when the numbers ‘RM85,888’ appeared.
All things considered, this is a superb price for what this car has to offer. “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 100 % 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,” said Dr Kerschbaumer.
Here are some highlights of the 2014 CKD VW Polo Sedan:
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 Sedan 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).
Ride & Handling – The 2014 Polo Sedan has superior handling and braking performance, making it one of the best rides in its segment. The car drives with less body roll and has short braking distance, giving a more stable handling and providing increased safety and confidence to the driver and passenger.
Exterior – The 2014 Polo Sedan is a well-designed car that features clean lines throughout its body, embodying the true Volkswagen DNA. The car comes with 15-inch Riverside alloy wheels, chrome finish on the front grille, and on the front air-dam – trunk and fog light surrounds with height adjustable halogen headlights.
As for its styling elements, the halogen headlamps are fitted with bright white surrounds compared to the previous black finish present in the former model. The rear badge placement has been revised, featuring a prominent Volkswagen lettering at the left light cluster and the “Polo” insignia moved to the opposite side of the boot lid. The car also comes with variable intermittent wipers. The 2014 Polo Sedan will be available in 5 different colours; Candy White, Flash Red, Pepper Grey, Reflex Silver and Deep Black.
Interior – Exuding the Volkswagen brand experience, the 2014 Polo Sedan is comfortable and comes with an interior chrome package (chrome surrounds for radio and light switches, AC panel and vents, steering wheel accent). The car is also the only one in its segment to offer such exclusivity: a multifunctional steering wheel with cruise control, auto power windows for all four doors, a leather gear knob, and a leather handbrake lever that delivers a more enhance driving experience. The 2014 Polo Sedan comes with a 60:40 folding rear seats, height adjustable driver and passenger seats, ‘Livon’ fabric seat upholstery, multi-function display, power door locks, power steering as well as a tilt and telescopic steering wheel.
In April 2012, Volkswagen Group Malaysia launched the fully-imported Polo Sedan priced at RM99,888. The locally assembled 2014 Polo Sedan will be available in Volkswagen dealerships nationwide at RM85,888 from 1st November 2013 onwards. For more information on the 2014 Polo Sedan, visit PoloSedan.com.my and www.volkswagen.com.my
