New Passat headlines VW PH’s aggressive 2015 plans: 8 new models to be launched this year

MANILA, Philippines - Volkswagen Philippines announced an aggressive growth plan in 2015 headlined by the arrival of eight new models this year including new engine and transmission variants of its current vehicle line-up. During a recent Media Appreciation Night held at their showroom in Bonifacio High Street in BGC, Taguig, John Philip Orbeta, president and CEO of Volkswagen Philippines and Klaus Schadewald, Chief Operating Adviser of Volkswagen Philippines made the announcement that 2015 will be a busy year for the German car brand.

Headlining the new models is the all-new Passat (B8), Volkswagen’s entry in the executive sedan market. The eighth-generation Passat is built on top of the company’s modular MQB architecture making it lighter in weight without compromising on chassis rigidity and strength. The 2,791-mm wheelbase promises expansive interior room while a relatively compact 4,767-mm overall length makes it more maneuverable. Available key features include LED for the headlights and taillights, heads-up display, and Active Info Display which substitutes traditional gauges for a 12.3-inch re-configurable LCD display. The Passat will be made available towards the end of 2015.

Though no pricing or specifications were announced, Schadewald is confident it will close the gap to high-end executive sedans with its aggressive pricing and features. It’s also understood that Volkswagen will capitalize its drivetrain development strength and make the all-new Passat available in both diesel and gasoline variants, making it the first executive sedan t offer such a choice.

Aside from the Passat, the GTI (previewed at the 5th Philippine International Motor Show), will finally arrive in Volkswagen showrooms starting February. Joining the GTI in the same month are the Touareg Special Edition, Polo Hatchback, and Tiguan R Line. Reports also indicate that the Scirocco R might also arrive as the brand’s performance flagship.

Volkswagen’s aggressive 2015 plans come after its first full year of operations last year. In 2014, it has seen the opening of several dealerships namely: Bonifacio Global City, Cebu, and Quezon Avenue. Just two weeks ago, it has also opened a satellite showroom in Alabang. Along with the Volkswagen Greenfield Service Center in Mandaluyong, it brings Volkswagen’s presence to five facilities.

2014 also showed VW’s green credentials through a series of Eco Fun Runs highlighting the TDI and TSI engines.

Orbeta narrated, “We have demonstrated the frugality of our engines in fuel economy runs that established class-leading fuel mileage ratings for our model lineup: Beetle with 16.32 km/l; Touran with 21.93 km/l; Tiguan with 27.39 km/l; Jetta with 29.47 km/l; and, Polo with 30.47 km/l.  Undeniably, Volkswagen vehicles are fuel efficient!”

Indeed, Volkswagen is in a strong position to continue strong this year. This optimism is based on the Philippine automotive industry’s impressive growth (projected to hit 300,000 units) as well as consumer demand and preference to well-engineered cars at affordable prices.