In the hotly contested compact sedan segment, the Maruti Swift Dzire is the leader but there are many other players too, such as the Honda Amaze, Ford Figo Aspire, the Hyundai Xcent and the Tata Zest all vying for a piece of this pie. In a daring move, Volkswagen too has plunged into this segment with the Ameo, its first exclusive offering for the Indian market.
Here's what you need to know about this latest entrant:
1. It is based on the VW Polo:
The Ameo compact sedan, like all other compact sedans, is based on a hatchback – in this case, the VW Polo. It shares its nose and much of its beltline, as well as its wheelbase, dashboard and switchgear with the VW hatchback.
2. Boot Space is improved from that of the Polo:
For obvious reasons, the Ameo offers more boot space. The 330-litre boot is big enough to hold two large bags and a couple of small ones. What sets the Ameo apart from its competition is that its rear seatback can be flipped down to expand boot space.
3. The Ameo gets good amount of creature comforts:
Volkswagen cars aren’t exactly known for their long features list. However, the Ameo comes brimming with equipment and class-first features. As with all Volkswagen models, the Ameo gets dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard. First-in-class features include cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, static cornering lights and a touchscreen infotainment system with MirrorLink that is capable of replicating your phone’s screen. Additionally, higher variants get automatic climate control, a rear AC vent(earlier available only on the Hyundai Xcent), and rear parking camera, electronically adjustable rear - view mirrors, adjustable steering and a cooled glovebox.
4. It will receive a 1.5-litre diesel engine and a 7-speed DSG later:
VW has introduced the Ameo with a 1.2-litre petrol engine only. This is the same unit that powers the Polo and churns out 75hp of power and 110Nm of torque. The motor comes with a five-speed manual gearbox. VW will also introduce a 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine on September 27. This is a revised version of the diesel motor that is currently available in the Polo, Vento and Skoda Rapid that features a bigger, locally sourced turbocharger. Besides the five-speed manual, it will come with the option of VW’s 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox.
5. It is priced extremely competitively:
Volkswagen has launched the Ameo at a knockout price of Rs 5.24 - 7.06 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), which makes it cheaper than most of its competition. Its pricing along with Volkswagen-typical German build quality and premium image makes the Ameo an incredible value position.
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
Dipan Sur
Hormazd Sorabjee
