As we mentioned over the weekend, the 2017 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) will be taking place this coming Thursday to Sunday, March 30 to April 2, 2017, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. And if you keenly read the news release, you’d know that there are a slew of models that are set to be unveiled during the four-day show. One of these is from Volkswagen Philippines, namely, the Volkswagen Tiguan.
The second-generation compact SUV makes is way to our shores with a sleeker, more sophisticated design and a host of tech and performance goodies to make the drive safer and more enjoyable. The new Volkswagen Tiguan is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged stratified injection (TSI) four-cylinder motor putting out 150PS and 350Nm of torque. All that motivation is sent to the drive wheels via 6-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG) for quick yet smooth shifts. Plus, a host of safety tech are on offer, such as multiple airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), ISOFIX child seat anchor points, and driver steering recommendation system for the Electronic Stabilization Program.
Apart from the Tiguan, the Volkswagen Crafter is likewise making its Philippine debut. The 9-seat Crafter L boasts a plethora of safety and comfort kit, including climatic airconditioning, sliding windows, individual seats with armrests, as well as Electronic Stabilization Program, Traction Control, and Hill Hold feature. Powering the high-roof people mover is a 2.0-liter bi-turbo direct injection (TDI) diesel lump putting out 163PS and 400Nm.
To showcase just how versatile and luxurious the Crafter L can be, the MIAS display will feature a dressed up version, complete with a 32-inch Samsung TV, high-back captain’s seats, navigation system for the touchscreen multimedia system, window blinds, LED accent lights, and step boards.
Speaking of vans, two of VW’s finest will likewise join the Crafter at the show. The Caddy, which first made an appearance at last year’s Philippine International Motor Show, returns with its flexible seating for seven, as well as generous cargo room. The Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) is powered by a 2.0-liter TDI mill that develops 140PS and 320Nm, mated to a 6-speed DSG transmission.
Not to be left out is the Volkswagen Touran, this time with a touch of upscale luxury. This comes from the leather seats and touchscreen multimedia system with navigation. It is still powered by a 110PS, 280Nm 2.0-liter diesel that’s paired with a 6-speed DSG. Both vans get a slew of safety kit to protect occupants and pedestrians alike.
More special versions will wow visitors at the 13th staging of MIAS. The Touareg Sport Edition, for instance, will show off its 20-inch Mallory alloy rims, and front and rear under-run guards An equally sporty Golf GTI will also be seen, with black/gloss 19-inch alloys, while a luxurious Business Line VW Passat will show just how upscale the erstwhile sedan is.
And let’s not leave out the Club Editions of the Polo hatchback and sedan, as well as the Beetle. The Polo gets goodies like touchscreen multimedia system, along with Anthracite alloys, among others. The iconic Beetle, meanwhile, gets a modern twist with touchscreen navigation multimedia system with mirrorlink, leather seats, and hyper black alloy rims.
As with the various car launches and special models on display, Volkswagen Philippines takes its award-winning Child Safety Initiative to the next level. From teaching kids 4-8 years of age about proper road safety using the Junior Driving Course, the Steps to Safety phase of the CSI campaign now talks to the 9-12 year-old age group. This time, VW will use a virtual reality (VR) app that will both teach and help them apply the basics. Heading the initiative is Philippine Global Road Safety Partnership’s Secretary General Alberto Suansing and Program Director Marte Perez.
Yes, the VW booth at this year’s MIAS promises to be a treat for everyone, young and not-so-young alike. Catch it and more from 10am to 10pm, 30th of March to 2nd of April at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
