Earlier this week, we received confirmation from VW India that CKD kits of the VW Polo have started shipping to Malaysia. Before introducing the Indian Polo, VW Malaysia has launched the Indian VW Vento as the VW Polo Sedan.
The 2014 Volkswagen Polo Sedan joins the Passat 1.8 TSI to become the second CKD model from the German brand for that country. The vehicle is assembled by DRB-Hicom at its Pekan plant and replaces the CBU model which was previously imported from India.
The Polo Sedan is priced at RM 85,888 (on-road) which converts to about 16.70 lakh rupees. It is RM 14k (2.73 lakh rupees) cheaper than the CBU model which was launched in April last year.
The drivetrain is unchanged with the car drawing power from a 1.6-liter MPI engine, matched to a six-speed torque converter. It produces 105 PS @ 5,250 rpm and 153 Nm @ 3,800 rpm, with a 0-100 kph sprint manageable in 12.3s, and a top speed of 183 kph.
The engine is tuned to deliver 6.5L/100km (15.38 kpl) in the Malaysian driving cycle and the car tips the scale at 1,182 kg.
Three major additions or new features are introduced on the CKD model. The RCD 210 audio system is replaced with the RCD 320 system. This system supports multiple languages, has USB and iPod interface, SD card slot, Aux-in and Bluetooth connectivity. The 'Climatronic' aircon with a rear aircon vent, and halogen lamps with bright white surrounds (in place of the black finish) are the other inclusions.
Minor revisions include repositioning of the 'Volkswagen' lettering on the boot, height-adjustable front armrest with a storage box, and a new seat fabric.
40% of the Polo Sedan is localized (by value) with components coming from 15 suppliers. VW Malaysia expects the Polo Sedan to be its second volume mover, after the Passat, which is its current best seller.
