2014 Volkswagen Polo Sedan CKD launched in Malaysia
Volkswagen Group Malaysia’s CKD partnership with DRB-Hicom Bhd takes another step forward with the launch of the 2014 Volkswagen Polo Sedan, assembled locally at the latter’s plant in Pekan, Pahang, which has been rolling out the Passat 1.8 TSI CKD since 2012.
Sporting the same 1.6-litre four-cylinder MPI engine as before, the new Polo Sedan CKD takes over from its CBU counterpart and offers consumers better value for money by giving improved levels of equipment at a lower price point. The proven mill, which produces 103hp and 153Nm, is paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual override. Consumption is rated at 6.5 l/100km in the combined cycle.
Available with a selection of five colours – Candy White, Flash Red, Pepper Grey, Reflex Silver, and Deep Black – the 2014 Polo Sedan CKD appears almost identical to its CBU predecessor from the outside, with the most noticeable difference being the headlamps no longer being of the smoked variety. The bulbs are height adjustable halogens.
The boot badges have also been revised, with the addition of a ‘Volkswagen’ typeface flanking the centrally-placed ‘VW’ insignia on the left. Balancing it on the right is the ‘Polo’ identification badge. Otherwise, the overall body work is unchanged, with the same 15″ Riverside alloy rims as before adorning all four corners.
Inside is where the new Polo Sedan CKD earns its ‘enhanced value’ billing, with notable additions being a height adjustable driver armrest, and rear air-conditioning blowers – a rarity in the B-segment and one which might even sway purchasing decisions in Malaysia’s hot climate. The air-conditioning control system is now digital, and the audio head unit has been upgraded to the more advanced RCD 320 module featuring USB, iPod, SD card, AUX-IN, and Bluetooth interface.
The Polo Sedan also leads the way with safety features. Although electronic stability control is a surprising omission, ABS and brake assist are nevertheless present. Front passengers are protected by four airbags in the event of a crash, and the Intelligent Crash Response System automatically unlocks all doors to allow occupants to get off the car quickly. The rear seats feature three-point safety belts for all occupants and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Complimenting this, an ISOFIX compatible child seat for newborns up to 13kg is offered as a RM2,876 cost option.
Available in Volkswagen dealerships nationwide from 1 November 2013, the new 2014 Polo Sedan CKD is priced at RM87,778 on-the-road without insurance in Peninsula Malaysia, a significant RM13k drop from the CBU model’s price of RM100,628.
