The Volkswagen Lavida II, specifically the 1.6-liter (110 horsepower) variant equipped with the Tiptronic automatic transmission, represents a significant model within Volkswagen’s strategy for the Chinese automotive market. Introduced with the 2015 facelift of the second-generation Lavida (codenamed 1HX0/A3), this version occupied a crucial mid-range position in the lineup, balancing affordability with a degree of comfort and convenience. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2015 to 2018, catering to a broad segment of Chinese consumers seeking a practical and reliable sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lavida |
| Generation | Lavida II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (110 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | China IV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 124.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3800 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CSRA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1245 kg (2744.76 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 478 l (16.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4605 mm (181.3 in) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2610 mm (102.76 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Lavida variant is the Volkswagen CSRA engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine, a mainstay in many Volkswagen group vehicles sold in China, utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system. The CSRA engine is known for its relative simplicity and durability, prioritizing reliability over outright performance. It produces 110 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine’s valvetrain features two valves per cylinder (four valves total), a common configuration for engines of this displacement and intended use. The Tiptronic automatic transmission is a six-speed torque converter automatic, offering both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode for driver control. This transmission was chosen for its smooth operation and suitability for urban driving conditions, which are prevalent in Chinese cities.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter Tiptronic Lavida delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 11.7 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 12.3 seconds, placing it firmly in the mainstream for its class. The Tiptronic transmission is programmed for fuel efficiency, resulting in relatively high gear ratios in the lower gears and a focus on keeping engine speeds low during cruising. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 TSI turbocharged engine option or even the base 1.6L manual, this variant feels noticeably less responsive. However, the automatic transmission provides a smooth and effortless driving experience, particularly in congested traffic. The gear ratios are optimized for everyday usability rather than sporty performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter Tiptronic Lavida typically came equipped with a standard suite of features including air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system with MP3 compatibility. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual front airbags. Higher trim levels, available as optional packages, added features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded leatherette or full leather seats. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Lavida II utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering system is a rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size is 205/55 R16, offering a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6-liter Tiptronic Lavida was well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable powertrain. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to competitors offering turbocharged engines. In terms of fuel economy, the 4.9 l/100 km combined figure was competitive for its class. Compared to the higher-trim Lavida models with the 1.4 TSI engine, the 1.6-liter variant offered a more accessible price point but sacrificed some performance and refinement. The 1.6L manual transmission offered slightly better fuel economy but required more driver involvement.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Lavida II 1.6 Tiptronic has established a reputation for reliability and durability in the Chinese used car market. The CSRA engine is known for its longevity, and the Tiptronic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, has proven to be relatively trouble-free. These vehicles continue to be a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable and practical sedan. While newer models have surpassed it in terms of technology and features, the Lavida II 1.6 Tiptronic remains a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to providing affordable and reliable transportation to the Chinese market.
