Volkswagen launches Lavida, the entirely designed and developed at Shanghai

Volkswagen LAVIDA

Hangzhou/Beijing, June 26, 2008. Only two months after the world premier Shanghai Volkswagen launched its brand new A-class model Lavida in Hangzhou on Wednesday. The Lavida is the first model which was entirely designed and developed at Shanghai Volkswagen, combining Asian style with Volkswagen engineering. It extends the car manufacturer’s product range in the volume segment and is available with a 1.6l/ 77kW and a 2.0l/88kW engine both with manual and automatic transmission. All models fulfill the China emission standard IV, which corresponds to EU IV. Prices start from 112,800 RMB.

The Lavida doesn't need to shy away from models of a higher level. With 4.6 meter length it outclasses its competitors and offers plenty of room for passengers on the rear seats and at the same time a lot of space for luggage, sports equipment or the weekend shopping bags," Vahland pointed out at the launch event. [more detail and gallery after jump]


The Volkswagen Lavida – in a nutshell

The name "Lavida" was derived from the Spanish language and represents a zest for life, hope and passion. The design of the Lavida does not follow any familiar pattern. Nonetheless, its design exhibits a logic of forms that is typical of Volkswagen. The front end is marked by a design that – with its horizontal lines – represents the "Volkswagen face" of the future. Powerfully contoured is the engine hood, distinctive is the tornado line that rises toward the rear.

As a whole, the side profile expresses a decidedly sporty image. The taillights take on the almond-shaped design of the headlights, the rear end itself on the other hand assumes the same vertical posture as the front end. A trailing edge was integrated in the design of the trunk lid; the spoiler lip contributes to the very good aerodynamic properties of the Lavida.

ntuitive controls are to be found inside every Volkswagen. Naturally, this applies to the Lavida too. The interior is characterized by an extremely ergonomic design, and visually it reflects a perfection of details that is typical of Volkswagen with its harmonious lines, fine wood applications and high-end surfaces. In general, the interior design and features consistently satisfy the wishes of Chinese car drivers as has been found in numerous surveys. One of these wishes: a USB interface for an MP3 player like the one that has now been implemented in the Lavida.

Shanghai Volkswagen offers the Lavida in the equipment lines "Trendline", "Comfortline" and "Highline". The base vehicle already has ample features with ABS, driver and front passenger airbags, climate control, MP3-capable CD-Radio, power windows and anti-theft warning system. The even more luxurious versions "Comfortline" and "Highline" also get 16-inch alloy wheels, a chrome package, sliding sunroof, leather seats, side and head airbags, cruise control, parking sensors, automatic climate control system and CD changer. Besides the listed features, the Highline variant of the Lavida also has a DVD-supported navigation system and telephone preparation.

[Source : Volkswagen Group, China // Images courtesy of Autohome, China]

Image Gallery : Shanghai Volkswagen LAVIDA