The Volkswagen Lamando I 230TSI, producing 131 horsepower, was a compact sedan manufactured by Volkswagen for the Chinese market from November 2014 to February 2019. Positioned as a modern, stylish offering within Volkswagen’s lineup in China, the Lamando aimed to appeal to a growing segment of consumers seeking a blend of European engineering and contemporary design. It was built on the PQ35 platform, also known as the A3 platform, shared with other Volkswagen Group vehicles like the Audi A3 and SEAT Leon. The 230TSI variant represented a key entry point into the Lamando range, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It was designed to compete with other locally produced and imported compact sedans in the highly competitive Chinese automotive market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lamando |
| Generation | Lamando I |
| Type (Engine) | 230TSI (131 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2014 |
| End of production | February, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 93.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 1400-3500 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CSTA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1150 l (40.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4598 mm (181.02 in) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2656 mm (104.57 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Lamando I 230TSI is the CSTA engine, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Volkswagen’s EA211 engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. The CSTA utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A single turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting power output. The engine features a timing chain, contributing to reduced maintenance compared to timing belts. The 230TSI was paired exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission in the Chinese market. This transmission was chosen to provide a balance between cost-effectiveness and driver engagement. The engine’s control unit (ECU) manages fuel delivery, ignition timing, and turbocharger boost pressure to optimize performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 131 horsepower and 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) of torque offered by the 230TSI engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving in urban and highway conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.6 seconds, which was competitive within its class. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power at lower engine speeds, offering good responsiveness for overtaking maneuvers. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficient cruising. Compared to higher-trim Lamando models equipped with more powerful engines, the 230TSI offered a more economical driving experience, but with a trade-off in outright acceleration. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, which meant that the engine could feel slightly strained at higher speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Lamando I 230TSI typically came equipped with a standard set of features designed to appeal to the Chinese market. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a focus on durability and practicality. Higher trim levels offered optional extras such as leather seats, a sunroof, a more advanced infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and automatic climate control. Safety features included dual front airbags and rear parking sensors. The overall interior design was modern and functional, reflecting Volkswagen’s design language at the time.
Chassis & Braking
The Lamando I utilized a McPherson strut suspension system at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle rode on 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/50 R16 tires. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability, catering to the preferences of Chinese consumers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lamando I 230TSI was generally well-received in the Chinese market as an affordable and stylish compact sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride quality. However, some reviewers noted that the engine’s performance was adequate but not particularly exciting. Compared to other trims in the Lamando lineup, the 230TSI offered the most affordable entry point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of 5.4 l/100 km was competitive with other vehicles in its class. Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues with the engine or transmission.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Lamando I 230TSI represents a significant example of Volkswagen’s strategy to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Chinese automotive market. While the model has been superseded by newer generations of the Lamando, the 230TSI variant remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and relatively low maintenance costs. The EA211 engine family, of which the CSTA is a part, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, contributing to the long-term value of these vehicles. The Lamando I helped establish Volkswagen as a leading brand in the Chinese compact sedan segment.
