VW India's compact sedan to be powered by 1.5L TDI engine - Report

Likely to launch next year.

VW India's compact sedan, based on the Polo's platform, is due for a launch next year. The company has been very secretive about this product, and has not previewed the design through a concept, nor have we seen it on test runs.

However, since it is based on the Polo's platform, Overdrive reports that the engines will be shared with the hatchback. The petrol variants of the compact sedan will be powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder MPI engine, while the diesel will see the new 1.5-liter four-cylinder TDI unit.

Interestingly, VW India began assembling the new diesel engine at its Chakan plant last week, and the increased localization is expected to help the German car maker with pricing of the compact sedan.

Though VW increased production at the Chakan plant by over 11.4 percent last year, producing its highest number of cars (111,444 units), almost 50 percent is exported to overseas markets (VW India exports to 32 countries).

Despite achieving better operating efficiency at the plant, domestic sales continue to see a lull, owing to lack of products in growth segments like the compact sedan and compact SUV spaces.

Also see: VW Polo-based SUV rendered

According to an earlier report, the compact sedan will be exclusively sold in the Indian market.

Competitors: Honda Amaze, Tata Zest, Maruti Dzire, Hyundai Xcent, Ford Figo sedan
Expected Price: INR 5.5-8 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: Early-2016

[Source - Overdrive]