Volkswagen India has commenced the production of its all-new Vento saloon from its Chakan plant near Pune. Unveiled in the first week of July, the Vento is based on an extended Polo platform (its wheelbase is 82mm longer, the car is overall 96mm longer), and is aimed directly at the Honda City and Maruti SX4.
Speaking on the occasion, Joerg Mueller, President & MD, VW India said, “India is a strategic long-term growth market for the Volkswagen Group. The start of production of the Vento not only marks another milestone in our journey but also reiterates VW’s commitment to India.”
The Vento saloon, specifically designed for the Indian market, will be powered by 1.6-litre diesel and petrol engines, both producing 105bhp and 25.51kgm and 15.61kgm torque respectively. The 1.6-litre petrol motor will get a six-speed automatic option along with the five-speed manual gearbox. The diesel will only be available with five-speed manual transmission.
The Vento has been designed in line with VW’s ‘La Semplicité’ design language which means simple, clean and bold lines. The name was given by Walter de Silva, Head of Design, VW Group, and the design theme has been carried over from Polo to the Vento.
With two trim levels on offer – Trendline and Highline -- the Vento is expected to be launched in India by Diwali this year within a Rs 7-9 lakh price range.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
