The Volkswagen Lavida III 1.5i (116 hp) Tiptronic represents a significant iteration within the Lavida lineage, a compact sedan specifically designed for the Chinese automotive market. Produced from May 2018 through 2019, this variant occupied a crucial mid-range position in the Lavida III lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and convenience features. The Lavida, in general, was Volkswagen’s best-selling vehicle in China, and the III generation continued this success, leveraging a localized platform and catering to the specific preferences of Chinese consumers. This particular 1.5-liter engine and six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission combination aimed to provide a comfortable and accessible driving experience for a broad segment of the population.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lavida |
| Generation | Lavida III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5i (116 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | May, 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | DMB |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Length | 4670 mm (183.86 in.) |
| Width | 1806 mm (71.1 in.) |
| Height | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2688 mm (105.83 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lavida III 1.5i Tiptronic is powered by the Volkswagen DMB engine, a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, a common setup for its time, providing adequate fuel atomization for efficient combustion. The engine produces 116 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The DMB engine is known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability and ease of maintenance. Paired with this engine is a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via the “Tiptronic” function, offering drivers a degree of control over the gear changes. The Tiptronic system, while not as responsive as a dedicated dual-clutch transmission, provided a smoother and more comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban traffic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5i Tiptronic Lavida III delivers a comfortable, albeit not particularly sporty, driving experience. The 116 hp output and six-speed automatic transmission are geared towards fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes approximately 12.6 seconds, which is typical for a vehicle in this class with this engine configuration. The Tiptronic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for everyday driving, providing adequate power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter engine option available in some Lavida III models, the 1.5i feels noticeably less responsive. However, it offers a more refined and fuel-efficient driving experience, making it well-suited for drivers prioritizing comfort and economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Lavida III 1.5i Tiptronic typically came equipped with a standard set of features designed to appeal to the mass market. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and additional safety features like rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with optional leather seats available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair. Optional extras often included a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Lavida III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The vehicle rides on 15-inch wheels with 195/65 R15 tires, a common size for compact sedans, balancing ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lavida III 1.5i Tiptronic was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted its lack of dynamic driving characteristics and relatively modest power output. Compared to other trims in the Lavida III lineup, such as the 1.6-liter variants, the 1.5i Tiptronic offered a more economical option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) was a significant selling point, particularly in a market where fuel costs were a concern. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, the Lavida III offered a competitive package in terms of price, features, and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Lavida III 1.5i Tiptronic, while not a performance icon, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The DMB engine, despite its relatively simple design, has a reputation for longevity, and the Tiptronic transmission, when properly maintained, can provide years of trouble-free operation. In the used car market, these Lavidas are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. They represent a solid choice for buyers looking for a dependable and fuel-efficient compact sedan. The Lavida’s success in China solidified Volkswagen’s position as a leading automotive manufacturer in the country, and the III generation continued to build on that legacy.
